Harveys Cellars reopen as Bristol Sherry bar

The historic Harveys Cellars in Bristol are due to reopen as a modern Sherry and tapas bar this month.

Created in collaboration with Sherry brand Harveys, the launch seeks to tap into the success of a number of Sherry bars to arrive in London over the last few years in the form of Bar Pepito, Capote y Toros and José.

This latest venue, the model for a planned nation-wide expansion, will feature a selection of Harveys’ Sherries, right up to its VORS range, each matched with tapas dishes.

Having been redesigned as a restaurant in 1961 by Sir Terence Conran, the remodelled Harveys Cellars, now owned by property developer Clinton McLeary, retain much of this Sixties feel. Fresh additions include a new island bar, separate VIP area, music room and private hire room.

Setting out his ambitions for the project, McLeary said: “I am passionate about Sherry and its heritage in Bristol, so despite the state that the cellars were in, I knew that I wanted to take on the task of re-developing them into an iconic city centre venue.

“Eventually we would like to roll the brand out across the country, offering something that is unique to consumers.”

Speaking on behalf of Maxxium UK, which is supporting McLeary in this project, Harveys senior brand manager, Jane Wilson, observed: “We are witnessing an emerging trend for new Sherry and tapas bars in the UK which is inspiring consumers to explore Sherry and encouraging them to include it in their drinks repertoire.

“The launch of Harveys Cellars in Bristol, a city famous for its historical ties with sherry, puts it firmly back on the map in the home and birthplace of Harveys Bristol Cream.”