Andy Devaney
If you thought autumn in London was all grey skies and soggy leaves, Hackstons Knightsbridge is about to change your mind. The luxury whisky and fine wine specialist has rolled out its most ambitious seasonal line-up yet, promising a heady mix of rare pours, cultural indulgence, and events designed to make even the most jaded collector sit up straight.
Since opening just over a year ago, Hackstons has gone from new kid on the block to a Knightsbridge institution, attracting collectors, connoisseurs, and curious tasters like moths to a flame. Now, with an autumn programme that reads more like an art catalogue than a drinks calendar, the store is cementing its place in London’s luxury circuit.
Whisky, Wine, and the Unexpected
This year’s programme is nothing short of theatrical. Guests will get the chance to deconstruct one of Japan’s most iconic blends, Hibiki, sip Bordeaux first growths in a fast-food “Grand Cru Drive Thru’,” and savour Diageo’s legendary Prima & Ultima collection—liquid history worth more than £15,000, poured in measures so rare they usually never escape a collector’s cellar.
Things get cosier as the season rolls on, with explorations into sherry and port that carry the weight of centuries of Iberian winemaking. Johnnie Walker Blue also gets a makeover, reimagined with ghost distillery expressions—liquid whispers from Scotland’s long-closed stills, bottled and brought back to life.
And if that sounds too safe, Hackstons Knightsbridge is also hosting a Fettercairn sensory experiment that makes whisky feel like performance art: blindfolds, soundscapes, watercolours, and a personalised memento to take home. Think less tasting, more immersive theatre—with a dram in hand.
The programme concludes with Liquid Masterpieces, a concept pairing extraordinary drinks with the work of celebrated artists. Guests will sip, savour, and quite literally see flavour as art.
Beyond the Store: Dining in Style
Hackstons isn’t stopping at its Knightsbridge base. From 22 September to 14 November, the store has teamed up with The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park. Guests can bring their Hackstons purchases to one of the capital’s finest Japanese restaurants and enjoy them with dinner—a rare perk in one of London’s most exclusive dining rooms.
The Vision Behind It All
“Hackstons Knightsbridge was always designed to be more than a store, it’s a destination,” said Alphie Valentine, Co-Founder and Director. “This autumn’s programme shows the breadth of what Hackstons stands for, from pouring rare whiskies valued at £15,000 to pairing Grand Cru with fries, we’re challenging expectations while staying true to our mission of making fine and rare spirits accessible, exciting, and memorable. To turn one and already be recognised as one of the UK’s most promising newcomers proves that Hackstons is creating something truly special.”
Tickets and Access
Events are fully ticketed, starting at £75, with numbers deliberately capped to maintain that rare air of exclusivity. To view the full autumn line-up or reserve your place, visit hackstons.com/events.
