Take That frontman Gary Barlow has encountered an unexpected hurdle in his latest business venture, with his premium wine brand being politely declined by some of London's most exclusive private members' clubs.
Celebrity Wine Meets Elite Resistance
The music superstar, known for his successful career spanning decades, launched his own wine range earlier this year with bottles priced at approximately £8 each. Despite Barlow's celebrity status and the wine's respectable quality, establishments including the legendary Annabel's and 5 Hertford Street have chosen not to stock the product.
The Club Conundrum
Sources close to the situation reveal that while the clubs maintain cordial relationships with Barlow, their beverage committees have strict criteria about which brands align with their exclusive image. "These clubs are notoriously selective about every aspect of their offerings," explained a hospitality industry insider. "From the art on the walls to the wine in their cellars, everything must meet their exacting standards."
Quality Over Celebrity
Interestingly, the rejection isn't about the wine's quality. Industry experts who've sampled Barlow's offering describe it as "perfectly drinkable" and good value for money. The issue appears to be more about brand positioning and the clubs' desire to maintain their curated, often traditional, beverage selections.
Not All Doors Closed
Despite these high-profile rejections, Barlow's wine venture hasn't been entirely shut out of luxury venues. The star recently performed at Oswald's, another private members' club, though it remains unclear whether his wine graces their tables.
The situation highlights the challenges celebrities face when expanding into competitive industries like wine, where established reputations and traditional networks often trump fame alone.
