Wine bottles in wine cellar - photo © Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer

Food + Drink

Going Underground – Les Caves de l’Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo

RIVIERA BUZZ25 May, 20262 Mins read293

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The legendary Caves de l’Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo combine heritage, innovation and exclusivity in what remains one of the world’s most remarkable hotel wine collections.

Celebrating over a century and a half since their creation by Marie Blanc in 1874, the 1,500m² cellars have long stood as a symbol of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer’s enduring commitment to fine living and exceptional wine culture.

Hidden ten metres beneath the ground and carved directly into the rock, the historic cellars unveiled a striking new chapter last year following an extensive renovation.

The ambitious two-year refurbishment introduced elegant new hospitality spaces while carefully preserving the timeless atmosphere that has defined the cellars for generations.

Caves de l'Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo @montecarlosbm - a.duprat

Soft lighting, natural wood and locally sourced stone now enhance the subterranean galleries, creating an intimate setting where history and modern luxury coexist seamlessly. Visitors are guided through the story of François and Marie Blanc, the visionary founders behind Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, whose influence remains deeply woven into the identity of the cellars.

Among the most treasured spaces is the Réserve Marie Blanc, home to some of the rarest bottles in the collection, including Grande Champagne Cognacs from 1809 and 1811, Château Mouton Rothschild 1945 and Petrus 1945. These priceless vintages are not offered for sale, reinforcing the cellar’s role as both guardian of wine history and living institution of oenological excellence.

A newly created cellar dedicated to France’s great wine regions – Champagne, Burgundy and Bordeaux – further elevates the experience, with expert sommeliers and oenologists guiding guests through exceptional terroirs and rare discoveries.

The reopening also marks the launch of the Cercle des Caves de l’Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, an ultra-private club designed for serious wine collectors and connoisseurs. Members are granted privileged access to rare vintages, bespoke tastings, exclusive food and wine pairing dinners and intimate encounters with leading winemakers and estate owners. Overseen by Patrice Frank, Director of the Cellars and the Cercle, the club aims to create a close-knit community united by a passion for fine wine and exceptional experiences.

HSH Prince Albert II was also officially inducted into the Cercle during the inauguration celebrations last year, underlining the prestige attached to the institution and its growing international profile, which also featured at the Osaka World Expo last October.

There are places where magic works with such power that they leave unforgettable memories. The Cellars of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo are among them. Reserved for wine professionals and a select few privileged visitors, the 1,500 square metres of galleries are gradually being revealed to guests … This jewel box is a tribute to Marie Blanc, widow of the founder of the Société des Bains de Mer, which was created through the vision of Prince Charles III”

— Stéphane Valeri, Chairman and CEO Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer