Farewell, Giacomo
22 May 2026
The London Club bids farewell to Clubroom Head Sommelier Giacomo Apolloni as he departs for Bordeaux to help launch our soon-to-be-open Club. While we’re reluctant to lose him, we’re equally excited to see him take on this next chapter.
Over the past five years at 67 Pall Mall, I’ve had the opportunity to grow from Junior Sommelier to leading the full sommelier team. From my very first week, I was exposed to so many fine wines – handling and selling more great bottles than I had in all my previous restaurant experience combined.
One of the most memorable moments for me was being promoted to Senior Sommelier after just three months. It came as a complete surprise and I still remember walking onto the Clubroom floor in the new jacket and being congratulated by so many Members. It’s a moment I’ll never forget.
Throughout my time in London, I learned an incredible amount, not only through organising tastings, verticals and working with some of the world’s greatest wines, but also from Federico, the sommelier team and the Members I met every day. Beyond wine, I learned how to grow as a manager and leader, understanding the importance of supporting the people around you and building a strong team culture.
Some of my favourite memories are the summer parties abroad with Grant and the team – from Verbier to Beaune and Bordeaux – always filled with great energy, aperitifs, long dinners and promises not to stay out too late before the Members’ party.
For several years, I had the idea that one day I would move to France, so when the opportunity arose to join the opening of the Bordeaux Club, it immediately felt like the right challenge. I’m incredibly proud the company trusted me with this next step.
In Bordeaux, I’ll be helping shape the food and wine service and set up the club’s 7,500-bottle wine tower, which will become one of its defining features. Most importantly, my focus will be on supporting and developing the new team Kathrine and I have already started building – sharing not only knowledge and service standards, but also the spirit, energy and hospitality that made such an impact on me during my years at 67 Pall Mall.
