Scotland’s oldest wine merchant - which counted Sir Walter Scott, Charles Dickens and King George IV among its customers - has moved into new premises in Edinburgh’s New Town.
The Cockburns of Leith shop on Frederick Street will offer in-store tastings and free deliveries to customers.
The retailer was established in 1796 by brothers Robert and John Cockburn who sought to supply the best wine and spirits when the city was experiencing the Enlightenment.
The brand is also remembered today through Cockburns Port, which was founded by Robert after serving as a soldier in Portugal during the Napoleonic Wars, and Cockburn Street, which honours Lord Cockburn, one-time solicitor general and an older brother to Robert and John.
In the early 20th century, drinking habits began to change, shifting private consumption to hotels, clubs and bars – a trend accelerated by the First and Second World Wars.
This saw Cockburns struggle and the company was sold to Canadian conglomerate Seagram’s in 1973. It went on to change hands on a number of occasions, including a period of more than 10 years under the ownership of Drambuie.
In March 1993, the business was acquired by The Wine Company (Scotland). However, in 2010, Cockburn’s entered administration and was rescued by Murray Capital, the private investment office of the Murray family, which has since made significant investment to maintain and grow the brand.
Keith Murray, director of Cockburns of Leith, said: “While online sales continue to grow, and are an important part of the modern Cockburns of Leith business, we also believe in the power of retail.
“That is why we have decided to open our first bottle shop, which comes at an exciting time of rejuvenation for Edinburgh’s commercial core.
“Be it the worker who wants to pick up a bottle on their way home from the office, someone who prefers to browse the labels and hold the bottle in their hands before they buy, or a newer wine drinker who needs a little guidance – the best way we can serve these customers is through a physical shop, offering warm, personal and expert service.”
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