Gibraltar Vault

The British overseas territory, Gibraltar, might not be the first destination that springs to mind when it comes to wine storage, but the prestigious Gibraltar Vault, a state-of-the-art controlled storage facility set deep within the heart of the Rock of Gibraltar itself, will soon offer one of the most excellent fine wine storage facilities in the world. Set within the labyrinth of tunnels that crisscross the great, limestone rock of Gibraltar, wine will be stored in caverns that were first carved out during the Great Siege at the end of the 18th century. They were then expanded during the 20th century, into a huge underground fortress, with chambers the height of cathedrals. Gibraltar’s natural rock is unsurpassed in its ability to create ideal climactic conditions for the maturation of investment-grade wines. Its natural conditions within the cave chambers ensure fine provenance at the most economical prices possible – after all, at average temperature of 13˚C and humidity of 70-80% inside the rock, there’s limited need for heating, cooling and dehumidification systems. In time, clients of Gibraltar Vault will be given an opportunity to explore a section of the tunnels, while understanding how and why Gibraltar Vault has come about. It is a story that includes national heroes, spies and great statesmen: Nelson, Churchill, Eisenhower, the celebrated writer Ian Fleming and the leading family traders who epitomise the entrepreneurial Gibraltarian spirit. Storage is on a first come, first serve basis, therefore in the next few weeks, private investors, collectors and enthusiasts will have an opportunity to open an online account via a newly launched website. During this time, Gibraltar Vault will also provide additional information, including the important fiscal and key trade route advantages, storing wine in Gibraltar will bring its clients.