la tour d'argent wine list

• £ 0.00 0 items

Wine News, Reviews and Opinions

Review of La Tour d’Argent’s Wine List

When La Tour d’Argent lost its second Michelin star a few years ago, continuing its slide down the ranking of top French restaurants, television crews were camped outside for days. Its food may not be what it once was, but this Left Bank institution is as newsworthy as ever. To many people, it is the most famous eaterie in the capital, a four hundred year old restaurant that continues to attract actors, musicians, business leaders, politicians and the Parisian beau monde.

The food isn’t bad, just a little predictable and pricey at E180 for the tasting menu. No matter. There are still two things that make a visit to La Tour d’Argent unforgettable. The first is the jaw-dropping view from the sixth floor dining room, taking in Notre Dame, Sacré Coeur, the Centre Beaubourg and the quais of the Left Bank.

The second is the wine list, which can justifiably claim to be the greatest in France. So extensive is the 450,000 bottle selection that guests have been known to arrive two hours early at La Tour d’Argent, just to read a part of it before dinner. If I tell you that the full list weighs a bicep-straining 9kg, you’ll have some idea of its dimensions.

For lovers of great French wines, there is no better place to drink. To take only two examples, the warren of cellars contains thirty-five vintages of Château Cheval Blanc and ninety-five different Montrachet Grands Crus. The same strength in depth applies to virtually every top wine from Bordeaux, Burgundy, the Loire, Alsace and the Rhône, with vintages dating back to the late-19th in some cases.

La Tour d’Argent specialises in old wines. And when I say specialise, I mean it. Apart from a youthful Aligoté (used to make Kir) and the excellent non vintage house Champagne, the youngest wine on the list, red or white, is a 2003. “If I can’t keep a wine for 20 years,” says the restaurant’s wry English chef sommelier, David Ridgway, “then I don’t really want to buy it.” Maturity is not always an easy sell, mind you. “Apart from here,” he adds, “the people who like to drink older wines in restaurants are probably drinking bad older wines, and that can put them off.”

Patience, good provenance and temperature-controlled storage conditions are the key. La Tour d’Argent buys nearly all of its own wines young, storing them until Ridgway considers they are ready. The list does contain younger vintages, tantalisingly held “en vieillissement” in the cellars, but these are off limits to diners. One punter apparently offered $1000 to drink a youthful, if highly praised, Châteauneuf-du-Pape and was turned down.

Unless you know a fair bit about wine it’s hard to know where to start with such a list. It is arranged by region and appellation, starting with the youngest vintage and descending, step by venerable step, into the past, but there are no tasting notes and no indication as to the style of the wines.

That’s where Ridgway comes in. Each week he makes a personal selection of 20 or so bottles that he thinks are at their peak, which certainly cuts the choice down to a palatable size. Failing that, you can ask him to recommend something else. He’s been working at the restaurant since 1981 and estimates that he has served 700,000 bottles of wine in his twenty-eight year stay. The man arguably has a deeper knowledge of old wines, especially Burgundies, than anyone else in France.

I gave him a budget of E100 per bottle, modest by the standards of La Tour d’Argent, and asked him to choose a red and a white to partner the seven course tasting menu. His choices were as unpredictable as they were brilliant, matching the food to perfection. The 1985 Riesling Grand Cru Muenchberg, Lorentz (E95) and the 1985 Montus Prestige Madiran (E95) were delicious old wines, the first a dry Alsace Riesling of haunting restraint, the second a mature, Tannat-based red that’s as good as many a Classed Growth Bordeaux at three times the price.

It’s almost sacrilegious to say it, but the list could be improved. A few by the glass wines would help, although there are 1000 half bottles by way of compensation. I’d also like to see more information about the producers and vintages, even if you’d need a small crane to prize the resulting list off the table. Lastly, a handful of younger wines wouldn’t go amiss. Not everyone wants to drink six year old Sancerre.

But these are caveats. This is an amazing treasure trove of wines, priced fairly and sold with knowledge, passion and obvious enjoyment. If they gave Michelin stars for wine lists alone, La Tour d’Argent would have three.

La Tour d’Argent, 15 Quai de la Tournelle, 75006 Paris. Tel : 00 33 1 43 54 23 31

Number of wines: 450,000

By the glass: 2

Under E30: None

Over E100: 4000 plus wines

Best value: 1991 Volnay Pitures, Domaine Boillot at E125 per bottle

Worst value: 1982 Château Pétrus at E19,826 per bottle

Gluggability: *****

Expense account adjuster: *****

Sancerre index: Not applicable. No one else sells six year old Sancerre.

Originally published in Intelligent Life

You must be logged in to post a comment.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Restaurants

• Best-of Guides
• MICHELIN Guide Ceremony
• My Favorites
• Subscribe to newsletter
• Booking partnership with OpenTable
• Booking partnership with Resy
• USA - English - USD
• MICHELIN Guide Restaurants
• Ile-de-France
• Paris Restaurants

Tour d'Argent

• 15 quai de la Tournelle, Paris, 75005, France
• €€€€ · Modern Cuisine

Add to favorites

Reservations are not available for this restaurant on our site

Michelin guide’s point of view.

Established in 1582, this elegant restaurant on the banks of the Seine gained a new floor in the early 20C, and with it one of the best views of Paris's emblematic river and Notre Dame! Tour d'Argent has continued to move with the times: on the ground floor is the Bar des Maillets d'Argent – which harks back to 1930s Britain – with its snack menu and daily specials. The restaurant menu, revamped by chef and Meilleur Ouvrier de France Yannick Franques, draws on the neo-Classical heritage of several decades of French haute cuisine (with a particular emphasis on sauces); the perfectly honed service is as spectacular as ever. As for the extraordinary wine cellar, it is home to over 300 000 bottles. Above the restaurant, a new roof terrace is the ideal spot for a cocktail on a weekday evening or weekend afternoon.

Facilities & Services

• Air conditioning
• Interesting wine list
• Restaurant offering vegetarian menus
• Valet parking
• Wheelchair access

Credit cards accepted

Information

Nearby restaurants.

Kitchen Ter(re)

Le Sergent Recruteur

Cucina Mutualité

L'Initial

Atelier Maître Albert

Nearby hotels.

Le Grand Mazarin

Les Dames Du Panthéon

Cour des Vosges - Evok Collection

Le Pavillon De La Reine

Hôtel Baume

Discover more:.

A Selection of Bib Gourmand Restaurants in Paris and Île-de-France

The Best Italian Restaurants in Paris

The Least Expensive Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Paris

The Best Restaurants Near the Eiffel Tower

The Best Japanese Restaurants in Paris

Restaurants Open on Sundays in Paris

Paris: Our Pick of Traditional French Restaurants

The Best Restaurants in Montmartre

Related reads.

Paris in the Spring: 15 Things to See and Do

Have you booked a short break in Paris? Explore our list of Inspector-approved activities to enjoy the warmer weather in the French capital.

The MICHELIN Guide’s Best Spots Near Paris Landmarks

Who could even think of coming to Paris without going out for a meal, whether it be in a fancy Starred restaurant, a trendsetting brasserie or a friendly neighbourhood bolthole? Here is our pick of restaurants on the doorstep of some of the capital’s most well-known landmarks.

The Reopening of One MICHELIN Star Tour d’Argent

A Parisian institution on their present and future

Use the app to find the best restaurants and hotels everywhere

Be the first to get news and update about the michelin guide.

MICHELIN Guide selections

Michelin guide, the michelin group.

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Legal Notice

Display settings

Customize your experience by easily adjusting display settings for territory, and currency to suit your preferences!

Member privileges

The Plus program provides upgrades and amenities at participating hotels. For this hotel, Plus members will receive:

Non-members can add the privileges at checkout through our 30 day free trial, cancellable at anytime.

• Work & Careers
• Life & Arts

Become an FT subscriber

Try unlimited access Only $1 for 4 weeks

Then $75 per month. Complete digital access to quality FT journalism on any device. Cancel anytime during your trial.

• Global news & analysis
• Expert opinion
• Special features
• FirstFT newsletter
• Videos & Podcasts
• Android & iOS app
• FT Edit app
• 10 gift articles per month

Explore more offers.

Standard digital.

• FT Digital Edition

Premium Digital

Print + premium digital, weekend print + standard digital, weekend print + premium digital.

Today's FT newspaper for easy reading on any device. This does not include ft.com or FT App access.

• 10 additional gift articles per month
• Global news & analysis
• Exclusive FT analysis
• Videos & Podcasts
• FT App on Android & iOS
• Everything in Standard Digital
• Premium newsletters
• Weekday Print Edition
• FT Weekend Print delivery
• Everything in Premium Digital

Essential digital access to quality FT journalism on any device. Pay a year upfront and save 20%.

• Everything in Print

Complete digital access to quality FT journalism with expert analysis from industry leaders. Pay a year upfront and save 20%.

Terms & Conditions apply

Explore our full range of subscriptions.

Why the ft.

See why over a million readers pay to read the Financial Times.

International Edition

Interview: David Ridgway, La Tour d’Argent

Words by Barnaby Eales

Photography by Thomas Renaut

David Ridgway, head sommelier and wine buyer at La Tour d’Argent in Paris, has spent more than 35 years transforming the legendary restaurant’s cellar into a veritable library of the finest French wines.

Home to 300,000 bottles, the cellar includes up to 40 vintages of the greatest wines of France. Prices range from €60 for entry-level wines to €20,000 for wines like 1990 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti and 1982 Pétrus. The rarest and most expensive wines, held on the cellar’s first floor, are protected by wrought iron gates and walls reinforced with battleship-grade steel.

The cellar temperature is controlled to within half a degree: 13 ° C in summer and 11.5 ° C in winter, allowing wines to mature at the optimal rate, and providing Ridgway (whose office is in the centre of the cellar) with the cool head he needs for making decisions on his annual wine buying budget of €1m.

You once described La Tour d’Argent’s cellar as a paradise of wine, saying you would never wish to work elsewhere. What have you enjoyed most about your 38 years there?

There is the beauty of tasting the finest wines on earth, of tasting the wines that you have laid down for 15 or 20 years. I have tasted the last 40 vintages of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti . They imbue you with a unique feeling of wellbeing; they transport you to a higher plain. At vineyards in Burgundy and elsewhere, I have developed relationships with three generations of vintners.

Earning the respect of customers and winemakers is very rewarding, as is the constant sharing of opinions with chefs at the restaurant. This combination, together with the exceptional view of the Seine and Notre Dame, has created a unique atmosphere at La Tour d’Argent.

You expanded La Tour d’Argent’s wine list from 100 pages with 1,000 wines in 1981, to today’s 400 pages with 15,000 wines. How have buying decisions changed of late?

I like to spend money. It is always been a bit of a problem, discussing budgets with the accountants and the restaurant owner, but now we are buying less as customers are drinking less. In Paris, we sell a maximum of 15,000 bottles a year in the restaurant, which, on average, represents close to a quarter of a bottle per person per meal. 75% of reservations are now for two people, many of whom order wine by the glass.

Customers now have a tendency to drink younger wines. We buy up to five or ten cases directly from about 40 to 50 producers. Buying wine on allocation from producers now means that if you don’t buy one year, the wines may not be available to buy the following year. The very high prices of the most recent Burgundy and Bordeaux vintages make buying them more difficult, but you can still find a Bruno Clair for €180 a bottle, for example, which shows how some red Burgundy can be relatively cheap, considering its rareness and quality.

What are customers at La Tour d’Argent drinking?

We are selling more red Burgundy than ever, but less white Burgundy. In the restaurant, most people ask for Burgundy, the Rhône and the Loire Valley.

Which celebrities or heads of state have you served there?

Mick Jagger, Prince, Robert De Niro and Dustin Hoffman, to name but a few. Woody Allen has a keen interest and knowledge in wine; his taste has evolved from Bordeaux to Burgundy over time. Elton John, who ordered a bottle of Louis Roederer’s Cristal , was extremely charming. In just one week, we had a visit from Bill Clinton, who drank a 1988 Château Margaux, and from Boris Yeltsin, who drank a 1990 Chambertin Clos de Beze. Of the two, Yeltsin drank the most.

In just one week, we had a visit from Bill Clinton and from Boris Yeltsin. Of the two, Yeltsin drank the most

Some French sommeliers complain that restaurants in Paris mark up wine by as much as five or six times the buying price…

Managing prices is a difficult daily task. We try to keep prices down, but it’s hard to explain why we are selling wine cheaper than they could be sold at auction. Some customers ask to buy a case of wine to take home with them, but I know it’s not to drink themselves – it’s to sell them on at higher prices.

I gather there was an accident with an 1811 Chateau Lafite Rothschild, which was once the oldest wine in La Tour d’Argent cellar. What happened?

A cellar assistant was up a stepladder and knocked the bottle to the ground, smashing it. He didn’t  have to pay for the wine, but I had great difficulty explaining the damage to Claude Terrail [Tour d’Argent’s then owner]. The 1811 vintage from the Year of the Great Comet was known to be a wine of exceptional quality. I daren’t think what it was worth [so-called Comet Vintages occur after comets are seen and in winemaking lore are reckoned always to be exceptional: 1811 is one of the most legendary. In 2007 a bottle of 1811 Lafite fetched €36,000 at Christie’s Los Angeles].

You joined La Tour d’Argent in 1981 after moving to France from Britain .  The management initially kept it quiet that you were British. Having now lived in France longer than in Britain, do you feel more French or British?

Until now, I never really wanted to obtain French nationality. There was no need. But now [with Brexit] I am dying to do so, but it has become a very lengthy process because so many people are applying for French nationality.

The word is that you are about to retire. Is this true?

I no longer do the restaurant service – I am rather bored of people spending the whole evening on their smartphones rather than talking to each other – however, there is no date set for my retirement.

If you had to choose five favourite wines and their vintages what would they be?

The pleasure of wine lies in its diversity. Choosing wines depends on what you are eating, your mood, where you are, how you feel and the atmosphere. If I had to, I would choose reds or whites from my go-to region, such as the 1985 vintage Côte de Beaune in Burgundy. Any Champagne from the Grand Cru villages of Chouilly and Cramant, aged 10 years in the bottle, would be marvellous. As Claude Terrail always said: ‘There is no party without Champagne.’

14 top sommeliers share their favourite books about wine

How to make The Connaught Bar Martini

Copenhagen’s cocktail scene keeps getting better

Six wine bars in Lisbon for the natural wine aficionado

Burgundy tasting: domaine de la romanée-conti 2016 vintage.

The drystone walls of Burgundy

Club Oenologique Newsletter

Sign up for the latest in wine, spirits, food and travel, straight to your inbox

• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to content

Paris Top Ten

Best of Paris

Restaurant La Tour d’Argent Review: Insights on its Fine Dining Experience

The restaurant’s dining room, located on the 6th floor, offers one of the most beautiful and romantic views of Paris, looking over Notre Dame. This place opened in 1582, and the King Henri the Third discovered the fork when he had dinner there. Frederic Delair, its owner under the Third Republic, created the famous “canard au sang” or “Canard Tour d’Argent” and decided that each duck would bear a number.

Nestled on the banks of the Seine River in Paris , La Tour d’Argent is a legendary French restaurant known for its sumptuous cuisine and unparalleled dining experience. With a history dating back to the 16th century, this prestigious establishment has earned its reputation through offering exceptional food, impeccable service, and an intimate atmosphere that keeps patrons returning for more.

Upon entering La Tour d’Argent, guests are immediately captivated by the stunning views of the restaurant’s location. Overlooking the Île Saint-Louis and Pont de la Tournelle , the setting provides a breathtaking backdrop for a Michelin-starred meal. As visitors settle into their seats, they are taken on a delectable culinary journey through expertly prepared French dishes, accompanied by an extensive wine list that rivals the finest cellars in the world.

The continued accolades and praise for La Tour d’Argent in reviews from reputable sources such as Condé Nast Traveler and Fodor’s stand as a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to maintaining its esteemed status. Both locals and travelers seeking a memorable dining experience will find that La Tour d’Argent truly delivers on its promise of exquisite cuisine and unparalleled service.

Table of Contents

History of La Tour d’Argent

Terrail family ownership, king henry iv and frédéric delair, world war ii and renovations, ambiance and decor, dining room and views, elevator and atmosphere, signature dishes, pressed duck, ratatouille, wine selection and sommelier, la tour d’argent’s wine cellar, menu and french cuisine, tasting menu, making a reservation, anniversary and special occasions, formal service and hospitality, reviews and accolades, frequently asked questions, what are the prices like at la tour d’argent, what is the dress code for la tour d’argent, is la tour d’argent currently open, what are the notable dishes at la tour d’argent besides pressed duck, what are some key highlights of their wine list, what is the history behind la tour d’argent’s long-standing reputation.

La Tour d’Argent is considered one of the oldest restaurants in Paris , claiming to have been founded in 1582. It was originally built as an inn in the 16th century and later became a renowned restaurant. Throughout its long history, the establishment has been under the ownership of the Terrail family.

The restaurant boasted having had King Henri IV among its frequent patrons. However, the documentation to support this claim is lacking. In the late 19th century, under the management of Frédéric Delair, La Tour d’Argent gained further prominence and prestige in the culinary world.

During World War II, the restaurant’s business was affected, but it persevered. Post-war renovations helped to modernize and improve the establishment, maintaining its prestigious reputation. Today, La Tour d’Argent serves its guests with a breathtaking panorama of Paris, overlooking the Seine, Notre-Dame, and Ile Saint-Louis.

La Tour d’Argent has a rich and storied history as a Parisian institution, captivating the imaginations of diners and visitors for centuries.

La Tour d’Argent is a truly captivating dining experience offering an elegant ambiance and remarkable views. The dining room, located on the 6th floor, boasts a sophisticated and classic French luxury design. From here, diners can enjoy an exquisite view of the city, including the iconic Notre Dame , the stunning Île Saint-Louis, and the beautiful Seine. The atmosphere in the dining room is refined, with well-spaced tables and good lighting, enabling guests to comfortably take in the breathtaking scenery.

Upon arrival at La Tour d’Argent, guests are greeted by a unique and impressive elevator that transports them to the 6th floor dining room. This historical touch adds a sense of grandeur to the overall experience. The restaurant’s atmosphere is enhanced by its rich culinary heritage, which dates back to 1582, and the attentive, knowledgeable staff that adds to the overall prestigious dining experience. The blend of tradition and contemporary charm found at La Tour d’Argent creates a memorable ambiance that perfectly complements its location along the Quai de la Tournelle.

See Related: Restaurant Le Djurdjura Nanterre

La Tour d’Argent is acclaimed for its signature dish, Pressed Duck . This exceptional dish offers guests a unique culinary experience and is steeped in history. The duck is roasted to perfection, imparting a rich, tender flavor to the meat. The highlight of this dish is the elaborate pressing technique used to extract juices from the carcass, which forms the base for a rich sauce. The restaurant has a long-standing tradition of presenting guests with a numbered certificate to commemorate their meal.

Another standout feature on La Tour d’Argent’s menu is the Fish . They offer a variety of expertly prepared fish dishes, showcasing the freshest, high-quality ingredients. The selection may vary depending on seasonality and availability, but guests can expect well-crafted dishes with exceptional flavors and textures. The restaurant’s chef presents a creative spin on traditional fish dishes, resulting in an unforgettable culinary experience that speaks to the establishment’s culinary heritage.

Lastly, the Ratatouille at La Tour d’Argent is a dish worth mentioning. This classic French dish is elevated by the skilled preparation and thoughtful presentation that the restaurant is known for. The dish combines fresh, seasonal vegetables in a perfectly seasoned and balanced manner, making it a delightful accompaniment to other dishes on the menu.

In conclusion, the signature dishes at La Tour d’Argent demonstrate the restaurant’s dedication to providing guests with a memorable dining experience that is both rooted in tradition and elevated by modern culinary expertise. The Pressed Duck, various Fish dishes, and Ratatouille stand out as exceptional offerings on their menu, each deserving of the praise they have received.

See Related: Le Tsuba Hotel

La Tour d’Argent’s wine list is highly renowned and an essential component of the overall dining experience. The restaurant’s wine cellar is a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts, boasting an astounding collection of 450,000 bottles . This extensive selection caters to a diverse range of tastes and preferences, offering something for everyone.

The sommelier at La Tour d’Argent plays a vital role in guiding guests through their wine journey. Offering expert advice and detailed explanations of each wine’s characteristics, the sommelier ensures that every diner finds the perfect bottle to complement their meal. Whether a guest prefers a complex red or a crisp white, the sommelier has the knowledge and expertise necessary to make an informed recommendation.

The wines stored in La Tour d’Argent’s wine cellar originate from various regions, allowing diners to enjoy vintages from famous wine-producing areas. With a particular focus on French wines, the cellar provides a delightful opportunity to explore the rich and nuanced flavors that have become synonymous with France’s esteemed wine culture.

In conclusion, the Wine Selection and Sommelier section of La Tour d’Argent is an integral aspect of the restaurant’s identity and success. With an exceptional wine list, an impressive wine cellar, and knowledgeable sommeliers to guide diners through their sensory experience, guests at La Tour d’Argent can expect a truly memorable and enjoyable evening.

See Related: Hôtel Acacias Etoile

The renowned restaurant La Tour d’Argent serves some of the finest French cuisine in the heart of Paris. The establishment has a rich history, and its culinary offerings showcase the best of French gastronomy, prepared by their talented chefs. The dining experience at La Tour d’Argent is made all the more memorable by its enchanting views of the Seine and Notre-Dame.

A highlight of La Tour d’Argent’s menu is their Tasting Menu, allowing guests to indulge in an extraordinary selection of dishes, showcasing the chef’s culinary prowess and the inn’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients. Each dish is meticulously presented, reflecting its elegance and impeccable taste. The Tasting Menu is ever-changing, designed to delight both regular patrons and newcomers by offering new and exquisite flavors.

On the Tasting Menu, you may find an array of beautifully crafted dishes, such as pan-seared foie gras, confit or roasted duck prepared in various ways, and delicate seafood masterpieces. The skillful use of seasonal produce ensures the freshness and vibrancy of each dish. The meal is further elevated by being accompanied by expertly chosen wines, perfectly complementing the flavors of each course.

At La Tour d’Argent, the French cuisine goes beyond just the Tasting Menu. They are also known for their classic pressed duck (canard à la presse), a signature dish that has helped define the restaurant’s reputation for excellence. This unique delicacy, which involves pressing the duck’s carcass to extract its rich juices, exemplifies the high level of skill and dedication that the chefs at La Tour d’Argent possess, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience for all who visit.

La Tour d’Argent, a prestigious restaurant in Paris, is an excellent choice for those celebrating an anniversary or any special occasion. To secure a table at this iconic establishment, making a reservation in advance is highly advisable. Reservations can be made through their website, ensuring a smooth process for guests.

The opulent setting of La Tour d’Argent offers an ideal backdrop for commemorating life’s significant milestones. Patrons can admire breathtaking city views while indulging in exquisite French cuisine expertly crafted by talented chefs. With its rich culinary history and distinguished wine list of over 300,000 bottles, this restaurant sets the stage for an unforgettable experience .

While making a reservation for your special celebration, be sure to inform the staff of any specific requests or considerations related to the nature of the occasion. This will enable them to accommodate your needs best and enhance your experience at La Tour d’Argent.

La Tour d’Argent is renowned for its formal service and hospitality. The experience begins as soon as guests step inside the establishment. The restaurant’s staff ensures that guests feel at home from the moment they arrive, making every effort to create a sense of comfort and belonging.

The waitstaff at La Tour d’Argent is professionally trained, offering impeccable service throughout the course of the meal. They are knowledgeable about the menu items and the restaurant’s extensive wine list, which includes a jaw-dropping collection of 300,000 bottles. Their expertise enables them to confidently guide diners in pairing the perfect wine with their chosen dishes.

In addition to ensuring that every detail of the dining experience meets the highest standards, the staff at La Tour d’Argent is skilled in the art of creating a personal connection with each guest. Their warm hospitality creates an atmosphere that allows diners to feel at ease while enjoying the exquisite dining experience.

The formal service at La Tour d’Argent is not only about providing the utmost in fine dining but also about preserving the restaurant’s storied history. The establishment dates back to 1582 and has hosted illustrious guests such as Edward VII, Charlie Chaplin, and Grace of Monaco. The staff’s dedication to upholding the restaurant’s legacy is evident in both their world-class service and their commitment to maintaining the timeless ambiance of the dining room.

Overall, the combination of elegant formality and welcoming hospitality that La Tour d’Argent offers makes dining at this Parisian institution a truly remarkable experience. The staff’s attention to detail, knowledge, and professionalism ensure that guests leave the restaurant with memories that will last a lifetime.

La Tour d’Argent, a renowned French restaurant located in Paris , has received numerous accolades and rave reviews from both experts and travelers. Offering a stunning view of the Seine, Pont de la Tournelle , and Île Saint-Louis, the restaurant has maintained a reputation for its superb cuisine and impeccable service.

Although the Michelin Star count of La Tour d’Argent currently stands at one, the prestigious culinary institution has held three stars in the past. The drop in stars has not, however, diminished guests’ enjoyment of the exquisite dishes served at this historic establishment.

The restaurant has become iconic for its specialty in canard à la presse (pressed duck), with the dish often mentioned in positive TripAdvisor reviews. Satisfied guests appreciate not only the culinary mastery of the chefs but also the historic ambience of the establishment while they feast on the sumptuous offerings.

Famous personalities, both in France and beyond, have frequented La Tour d’Argent throughout the years. Celebrities seeking an elite French dining experience have made this restaurant a preferred choice, further solidifying its status among the best establishments in Paris.

In summary, La Tour d’Argent continues to be celebrated for its outstanding French cuisine, excellent service, and rich history. Its one Michelin Star serves as a testament to the restaurant’s unwavering dedication to quality dining experiences, attracting both travelers and celebrities alike.

See Related: Restaurant Les Ambassadeurs

La Tour d’Argent is a high-end dining establishment whose prices reflect its Michelin-starred status. Expect to pay premium prices for a dining experience that combines culinary heritage, a vast wine selection, and unforgettable views of Paris.

Although there is no strict dress code at La Tour d’Argent, guests are encouraged to dress smartly for the sophisticated ambiance of the restaurant. Formal attire is not required, but it is recommended to wear smart-casual clothing to match the elegant surroundings.

As of June 24, 2023, La Tour d’Argent is open. The restaurant operates from 12:00 to 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM. It is always best to check their website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on their hours of operation.

While the pressed duck is the iconic dish at La Tour d’Argent, the restaurant offers a range of creative and sophisticated dishes that showcase French culinary techniques. Some other notable dishes include their pan-seared foie gras and lobster dishes and seasonal and locally sourced ingredients incorporated into the menu.

La Tour d’Argent is known for its extensive wine list, boasting a collection of over 300,000 bottles. The selection includes rare vintages and a broad spectrum of price points, catering to wine connoisseurs and those seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

La Tour d’Argent’s reputation as a culinary institution in Paris dates back to its founding in 1582. Over the centuries, the restaurant has maintained its high standards and innovative approach to French cuisine, resulting in a unique dining experience that combines history, culinary expertise, and breathtaking views of the city.

Please rate this post

Your page rank:

Other Travel Guides

• Restaurant Dans le Noir Paris
• Eiffel Tower History: The Iconic Landmark of Paris and Gustave Eiffel’s Masterpiece
• Expat Jobs in Paris: Discover Exciting Career Opportunities
• Job Opportunities in Paris: Can I Get Hired Without Speaking French?
• Immigration Attorneys in Paris, France: Expert Legal Services for Visas and Residency
• Best Coworking Spaces in Paris, France: The Ultimate Guide

The enigmatic case of La Tour d'Argent's wine cellar

How a historic parisian restaurant is grappling with the unexplained disappearance of its cherished wines.

Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Seine, La Tour d'Argent commands a majestic view of the Notre-Dame Cathedral, embodying the quintessence of Parisian fine dining. This one-star Michelin restaurant, a historic culinary landmark founded in 1582, has long been a bastion of gastronomic excellence and vinous treasure. Its fame is not only rooted in its centuries-old tradition of serving exquisite French cuisine but also in its remarkable wine cellar, considered one of the globe's most prestigious collections.

The cellar, a closely guarded sanctum of viniculture, harbors over 300,000 bottles of wine, a collection that holds an estimated conservative value of $30 million. This remarkable repository of fine wines came under the spotlight recently, following a meticulous inventory—the first since January 2020—revealing the mysterious disappearance of 83 bottles. The missing selections, which include prestigious labels from the revered Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, underscore the cellar's invaluable legacy and the profound loss such vanishings represent to the connoisseurs' world.

The circumstances surrounding the disappearance of these wines remain enigmatic, with no signs of forced entry detected and the thefts believed to have occurred at any point over the last four years. This incident has prompted La Tour d'Argent to lodge a formal complaint with the French police, leading to an investigation by the Third Division of the Paris Judicial Police. The investigation aims to shed light on this puzzling loss and potentially recover the irreplaceable bottles.

La Tour d'Argent's storied past adds layers of intrigue and fascination to this incident. The restaurant's lineage of guests reads like a who's who of historical figures and celebrities, including King Henry IV, Queen Elizabeth II in 1948, Theodore Roosevelt, Charlie Chaplin, and Bill Clinton. Its walls, and indeed its elevator to the dining room located on the sixth floor, are adorned with images of these illustrious diners, offering a visual feast that complements the culinary one.

Moreover, the restaurant's wine list, a tome so voluminous that it must be carted to each table, speaks to the establishment's dedication to oenological excellence. It specializes in aged wines, with vintages stretching back to the late 19th century, and boasts extensive back vintages from almost every top vineyard across France's celebrated wine regions: Burgundy, Bordeaux, the Rhône, Alsace, and the Loire.

La Tour d'Argent is also woven into the fabric of modern pop culture, serving as the muse for the beloved Pixar film Ratatouille. This connection underscores the restaurant's enduring influence on both culinary and cultural narratives, bridging the realms of gastronomy and entertainment.

As this venerable institution grapples with the recent loss from its legendary cellar, the incident illuminates the challenges of safeguarding such a priceless collection. It also highlights the restaurant's resilient spirit, demonstrated historically when Claude Terrail, its late owner, ingeniously protected his most valuable bottles from the Nazis by concealing them behind a false wall in 1940.

La Tour d'Argent continues to stand as a monument to culinary and vinous heritage, its legacy enriched by its historical depth, cultural significance, and unwavering commitment to excellence. The mystery of the missing bottles adds a contemporary chapter to its storied existence, reminding us of the transient nature of physical treasures and the enduring value of tradition and history.

Most Popular

• Brits Spent £4.06 Billion on Wine Imports in 2023, Second-Highest Value Despite 0.4% Dip
• Wine market reaches $353 billion in 2024
• Ecommerce Wine Market to Soar to $4.83bn in 2024
• Easter Island's Unexpected Viticultural Heritage
• Chilean scientists will produce low-alcohol wines without losing quality
• The unconventional yeasts crafting the next generation of wines
• Does wine make people seem more beautiful?
• Will AI Make Wine Too Perfect?
• The Rising Tide of US Cocktail Culture
• Bordeaux Bubble Burst? Wine Prices Slide, En Primeur Future in Question
• Unveiling winemaking's secrets across millennia
• How Long COVID Alters Wine Enjoyment

Founded in 2007, Vinetur® is a registered trademark of VGSC S.L. with a long history in the wine industry. VGSC, S.L. with VAT number B70255591 is a spanish company legally registered in the Commercial Register of the city of Santiago de Compostela, with registration number: Bulletin 181, Reference 356049 in Volume 13, Page 107, Section 6, Sheet 45028, Entry 2. Email: [email protected] Headquarters and offices located in Vilagarcia de Arousa, Spain.

• Paris Tourism
• Paris Hotels
• Paris Bed and Breakfast
• Paris Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Paris
• Tour d'Argent
• Things to Do in Paris
• Paris Travel Forum
• Paris Photos
• All Paris Hotels
• Paris Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Paris
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

the wine list!! - Tour d'Argent

• Europe    
• France    
• Ile-de-France    
• Paris    
• Paris Restaurants    

“the wine list!!” Review of Tour d'Argent

Came for lunch. Wine list is about 6 inches thick! Found portions to big. Could not finish the 2 scoops of foie gras as a starter. Then had the sole in a lobster bisque sauce. Shared a crepe for dessert. Nothing that memorable.Service and ambiance is commensurate to the price! Enjoy the Notre Dame view.

• Excellent 1,862
• Very good 482
• Average 186
• Terrible 77
• All languages
• English  (943)
• French  (1,354)
• Portuguese  (129)
• More languages
• English (943)
• French (1,354)
• Portuguese (129)
• Spanish (109)
• Chinese (Sim.) (97)
• Chinese (Trad.) (79)
• Italian (77)
• Russian (37)
• Japanese (23)
• German (16)
• Swedish (6)
• Norwegian (1)

837 - 841 of 2,713 reviews

In comparison to other top Paris restaurants we visited last month, La Tour d'Argent was the least impressive both in food and service. We ordered a pressed duck asked for it medium rare and it came out gamey and chewy at a very high cost. The staff were very stiff and seemed either unhappy and nervous based on how management interact with them -- or simply stuffy and pretentious. The views of the Seine and Notre Dame were certainly a sight to behold - but in comparison to restaurants such as Taillevent, Lasserre and Grand Vefour, they simply did not compare in service or food quality.

We went to La Tour d'Argent on March 31th this year for lunch, with my niece and my husband's two kids (aged from 18 to 25) to give them an experience of a life time! And we don't regret spending so much on the most amazing food and wine. We admit to being foodies and we love great wine. In this restaurant you can afford to choose the best wine! The "kids" were impressed from the very beginning entering the restaurant to the end. Impeccable and friendly service, and the greatest view! A place to go for the once in a life time experience!!

But definitely worth it ,.I started vising Paris backs in the fifties and have probably been there at least 30 times since. My father who was a Pairsian by birth always talked about La Tour in rather histhed and reverential terms. It was somewhere i always wantedt to visit and could never really afford , then on my 70th birthday my wonderful wife said she would treat me. From the moment we arrived at the front door, we new this was something special. After the doorman opened the door a major domo character greeted us personally, by name and passed us on to another" flunky"- who guided us to the lift. The resturant on the sixth floor is straight out of the belle epoque- exactly as you've seen in a dozen french moves is-ornate, to just this side of ostentatious. With enormous windows looking out on to the River Seine and probably themost romantic view in city-the floodlit Notre Dame cathederal- You couldnt be anywhere but Paris The service as you would expect was faultless, but extremely friendly and not the least bit patronising or aloof. The head waiter carefully took us through the menu . The speciality of the house is duck,cooked and served in the traditonal 19th century way - comes as two courses . We chose the fixed price menu at "only"190 euros a head- and evrything that we eat was truly wonderful. When the sommeleir approaches with the wine list , it is the size of an old fashioned telephone directory- with prices ranging from 100 euros upwards- we had a modest bottle of 1952 Puligny Montrachet at around 200 euros- It was like nectar! When booking they asked for any notes and had mentioned this was a birthday treat and to my surprise the meal ended with a tiny birthdaycake- and dont worry no one sang "happy birthday" But it was a fantatsic treat and highly recommended- Tips -ask for a window table -go for lunch when the fixed price is only 90euros!-before leaving spend a few minutes looking round the ground floor slaon, which is full of history. You wont regret this, once in a lifetime experience.

My husband and I had lunch at this restaurant a few days a go and we haven't stopped talking about the culinary experience because it exceeded our expectation. We travel and dine out a lot and this restaurant was on our list. From the minute we stepped into the building until we left, We felt special, service is impeccable, the restaurant is beautiful and the view is breathtaking. Everything we tasted was cooked to perfection, Totally refined. Sometimes you go to this type of restaurants and the service is excellent but the food is average or the other way round. At this restaurant, you definitely get what you pay for, this is traditional french cooking at its best, I don't think you can go wrong with whatever you order. We started we a glass of champagne and then ordered half a bottle of wine, We probably should have just ordered a bottle of champagne, the wine list is incredible My husband ordered duck and I had Noix de Saint-Jacques rôties (scallops). Both were excellent..... It was a great afternoon. No regrets, worth every penny and We will definitely return.

Travelers who viewed Tour d'Argent also viewed

Been to tour d'argent share your experiences, owners: what's your side of the story.

Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.

Browse nearby

• Africa / Middle East
• Australia / Pacific
• North America
• South America
• Healthy Dining
• Cooking & Ingredients

La Tour d'Argent Paris

Many diners visit the restaurant just for its wine list. What is impressive is the way in which the wines are kept. The cellar has the best temperature regulation in the whole of Paris. Stéphane Trapier, a second assistant head sommelier said: “ We keep the wines under a very low temperature so they age slower than is usual. Therefore, the vintages you get here have a unique taste.”

Misleading reviews

The signature dish

Famous diners

Historical bottles

The bible of wine lists

Once the wine list was in front of my eyes I couldn’t get my hands off of it. Nervous sommeliers must have been thinking that I found a new religion as I turned page by page of this massive book and studied all of its contents. It is strong on Burgundies. Treasures like Chambertin 1865 and Romanée 1874 may be well pass their peak, but they have an enormous value if you imagine that these vintages could have been drunk by Alexander II, Czar of All the Russias, or by F. D. Roosevelt, who both wined and dined here. The choice of Bordeaux doesn’t stand behind as you can find the strongest vintages such as 1982 or 1990 in most of the best Chateaux found there. 

It is not just about wines

One Comment

Pingback: Eating Out And Staying Slim For The Holidays | The Living 360 | Remixing The Cool, The Relevant and The Irresistible

Your Recommendations Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

Receive occasional inspiration, general information.

Paris restaurant La Tour d’Argent ‘loses’ more than £1.25m worth of wine

The one-star Michelin restaurant sits on the banks of the Seine and boasts sweeping views of Notre-Dame Cathedral.

La Tour d’Argent, which provided the inspiration for the film Ratatouille , is renowned for having one of the world’s greatest wine cellars.

The tightly-guarded cellar is home to more than 300,000 bottles, and the collection’s worth has been conservatively estimated at £24m.

Staff recently conducted their first inventory since January 2020, and they discovered that 83 bottles had vanished.

They could have gone missing at any time during the past four years, a sommelier at the 422-year-old restaurant told Le Parisien .

Prestigious wines from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti are among those missing, according to the sommelier.

La Tour d’Argent has filed a complaint to the French police. No evidence of a break-in was discovered but the Third Division of the Paris Judicial Police is investigating the disappearance of the wines.

The restaurant has been an icon of Paris ever since it was founded in 1582. It was frequented by King Henry IV, and it has gone on to welcome famous diners from around the world.

Queen Elizabeth II was the guest of honour in 1948. Other famous visitors include Theodore Roosevelt, Charlie Chaplin and Bill Clinton.

Guests will see pictures of the famous diners when riding the elevator up to the restaurant, which is located on the sixth floor of the Quai de la Tournelle in Paris’ 5th arrondissement.

The wine list is an enormous book, which is so heavy that it needs to be wheeled out on a cart to each table. It specialises in old wines, with vintages dating back to the late 19th century, and it houses back vintages of almost every top wine from Burgundy , Bordeaux , the Rhône , Alsace and the Loire .

La Tour d’Argent is also famous for late owner Claude Terrail’s quick thinking in 1940, when he hid his most prized bottles behind a fake wall as the Nazis prepared to seize the restaurant.

Yet for many people around the world, the restaurant is primarily known as the inspiration for the hit Pixar animated film Ratatouille , in which a young rat with heightened senses of taste and smell takes over the kitchen and wows Parisian society with his culinary creations.

Related articles

French police chase stops €600,000 champagne theft, fraudsters accused of conning wine merchant in €95,000 petrus scam, la police hunt wine shop thieves after major heist, latest wine news, christie’s to auction ‘last treasures’ of avery family wine cellar, rathfinny wine estate releases uk’s first 50cl sparkling wine, pernod ricard to acquire 280-hectare provence estate.

Welcome to our gastronomic universe! Should you have any questions about a recipe, shipping conditions, or any further subject don't hesitate to contact us.

With the code PREMIERECOMMANDE benefit from -10% off your first order! shipping fees excluded

• Wine cellar
• Professionals

They perfume every place with a delicate fragrance and will transport you to our Parisian suite, at the heart of the garden on our roof, or in the more intimate atmosphere of our Bar.

Discover the three olfactive signatures imagined by the Nose Clémence Besse for La Tour d’Argent. These precious decorative objects envelop every room with a subtle and refined scent and reflect three places of emotion: our luxury Parisian suite, the Roof of the Tower under the Parisian sky, and the intimate atmosphere of our Bar, an invitation to sweetness poetry. These French candles made with natural ingredients are created by the family House Lothantique which shares with us values of transmission, expertise, excellence, and authenticity.

R&L Legras  Cuvée Cathelin  2018

Domaine Elian Da Ros   Le vin est une fête 2020

Ideal for waterside aperitifs, Le Vin est une Fête - Wine is a Celebration - speaks for itself. Elian Da Ros's passion is evident, as is the light, festive character of his name, with aromas of fresh fruit, gourmand, and powerful.

Domaine du Deffends   Champs de la Truffière 2017

Made from Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine from Provence will offer notes of licorice, bay leaf, and spices. The mouth offers a combination of freshness and density.

TW  Nicaragua & Jamaïca

They are twelve friends who have decided to build a distillery together. They will call it TW, for "twelve"! Located in a region that one would never suspect of being home to rum: the Aveyron. 

Terra Vita Vinum Rouge de schiste 2019

This cuvée comes from rigorous selection and work and offers beautiful aromas and perfect balance.

• Savoir-faire
• Made in France
• Our artisans of excellence
• La Tour goes green

Each historic restaurant as its story, as we know, and ours is no exception. For more than a century now, through the vicissitudes of history, we have maintained a sincerity, a tradition, a reputation that extends around the world.

Each day, we search for the best French producers whose invaluable expertise, combined with the imagination of our chef Yannick Franques, result in exceptional products. Respect for the product, a relationship of trust and goodwill, honouring the terroir and its traditions, are the values that we seek to share with you.

We have travelled all over France to seek out the best artisans whose unique expertise and passion can be found in the products we offer to you. Whether sweet or savoury, all our products are made with ingredients that have been rigorously selected and cooked or created using recipes by our chef Yannick Franques. The relationships of trust and goodwill that unite us with our artisans allow us to offer you the very best.

As ambassadors of Parisian elegance, communicators of our producers' passion to our clients, heirs to gastronomic heritage and the French art of living... preserving our planet is now also at the heart of all our decisions and actions.

sLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. A ad cupiditate, deleniti dolores eius eligendi est hic illo laboriosam nihil omnis optio porro quam sequi!

In the whirlwind of daily life, it's essential to cultivate moments of tranquility and harmony. And what better way...

Ecology in the culinary world manifests through a responsible approach, emphasizing the use of local, organic, and...

Celebrating Easter in style is a refined and meaningful way to mark this important occasion in the christian...

Discover the bewitching soul of the Mâconnais vineyards. Dive into the fascinating tale of this wine region, keeper...

It was quite a long-awaited reopening. After a 15-month spectacular renovation, our guests live the Tour d’Argent...

Let's talk about the wise blend of morning delights and lunch pleasures called brunch. It requires the choice of...

Our Head Sommelier and bartenders reveal to you some good homemade mixed drinks for appetizers or parties that will...

The story of Cognac begins centuries ago, in the French region of Charente. This prestigious and worldwide known eau...

The good storing of wine is essential to preserve its quality and delicate aromas. One of the most frequent threats...

This easy-to-make preparation is unveiled to you by the team of our 1* restaurant. It is a happy blend of crispy...

Epicerie Tour d'Argent

L'Epicerie Tour d'Argent offers a global universe to all gastronomes. After having extended his know-how beyond the restaurant with the opening of the Rôtisserie d'Argent and the Boulangerie de la Tour, André Terrail imagined a range of fine grocery stores. Each product is sourced and echoes the DNA of La Tour d'Argent. Showcasing unique know-how, Epicerie Fine offers or offers products of excellence. Enough to embellish the tables of the finest gourmets and extend the experience of La Tour d'Argent. The fine grocery store of La Tour d'Argent gives pride of place to the good and beautiful product, to its simplicity and gives the opportunity to delight in everyday life. It has a savory and sweet range of exceptional products. Artisanal mustards, extra virgin olive oils, exceptional jams enhanced by a range of Champagne that will enrich your most delicate sweet moments. Wines from the Tour d'Argent selected by our Sommelier Chef: Bordeaux, Graves, Burgundy, Chablis, Sancerre, Sauternes, Saint-Emilion and exceptional bottles to embellish your moments of sharing at the table.

Stay tuned and be the first to discover our selections of rare bottles and fine food products.

• Tour d'Argent collection
• Discoveries
• Treasures from our cellar

La Tour d’Argent’s history supposedly stretches back to the 1582 and the reign of Henry III of France when an inn was opened with a tower made from silvery-hued stone from the Champagne region (hence the name). In the years prior to the French Revolution it would become one of the country’s first fine dining spots. In 1911 it would be bought by André Terrail, whose grandson, also called André, is in charge today.

When the historic eatery Café Anglais closed in 1913, the following year its contents were relocated to La Tour d’Argent. Today the latter holds some incredibly precious wines, including 1870 vintages of Château Gruaud-Larose and Clos de Vougeot , saved from the German invasion in 1940 when Claude Terrail, the current owner’s father, walled up the cellar. There are also supposedly bottles from the 18th century, pre-dating the Revolution.

Now under head sommelier Victor Gonzalez, today the cellar contains approximately 320,000 bottles (the list is so heavy, around 8 kilograms, that it is wheeled out to diners on a trolley). However, a small but noticeable dent has been made in that number, and no one seems to know how.

Some of the most valuable ones have gone missing since the last inventory was taken in January 2020, as reported by local media outlet Le Parisien – and no break-in was reported in the intervening four years. On 25 January this year a complaint was lodged by the restaurant manager concerning the absence of what is estimated to be €1.5 million (£1.3m) worth of rare wine, and the Third Division of the Paris Judicial Police is now investigating what could have happened to the bottles.

As well as the disappearing Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, other Burgundy Grands Crus were also reported missing, though a full list of what bottles and vintages have actually gone is yet to be revealed.

Related reading:

Mexican beauty queen arrested in connection with wine ‘theft of the century’

It looks like you're in Asia, would you like to be redirected to the Drinks Business Asia edition?

Yes, take me to the Asia edition No

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Taste 200+ Great Wines at Our Grand Tour! Coming up: Las Vegas (May 4) and Denver (May 11)—Get your tickets now!

Wine Spectator

• I'm a member Sign In
• I'm not a member Subscribe
• Insider Weekly
• My Personal Wine List
• Value Wines
• Newsletter Subscriptions
• Manage My Account
• My Control Panel
• Ratings Search
• Daily Wine Pick
• Tasting Reports
• Winery Intel
• Vintage Charts
• About Our Tastings
• Ask Dr. Vinny
• Know Your Grapes
• What Am I Tasting?
• Wine & Health
• Readers' Dogs
• Winery Dogs
• Going Native
• Wine & Design
• Search Winners
• All Grand Awards
• Enter the Awards
• Dining Articles
• Recipe Search
• Wine & Food Pairing
• Member Benefits
• Online Subscription
• Print Subscription
• Online Gift Subscription
• Print Gift Subscription
• Email Newsletters
• Magazine Archives
• For the Trade
• Submit Wines
• Enter Restaurant Awards
• Shanken Ratings Network
• MarketWatch Magazine
• Shanken News Daily
• Retailer Club
• Advertise with Us
• 40th Anniversary
• Wine Shop Search
• Wine School

Member Links

Srn member links, thieves steal $1.63 million in wines from legendary paris restaurant la tour d’argent.

More than 80 rare bottles went missing from the Grand Award winner’s cellar, perhaps during recent renovations

• Suzanne Mustacich

The owners of La Tour d'Argent , the legendary Parisian restaurant and Wine Spectator Grand Award winner, filed a complaint with police last week following an inventory taken of their extensive wine collection. More than 80 bottles, worth $1.63 million (€1.5 million), are missing from the cellar, including bottles from Burgundy’s Domaine de la Romanée-Conti . There were no signs of forced entry.

The theft came to light following an extensive renovation, when the restaurant was closed, between April 2022 and September 2023. The 83 missing wines were taken sometime between 2020 and January 2024, when the most recent audit of the cellar was conducted.

La Tour d'Argent is synonymous with French gastronomy. Located on the Seine at 15 Quai de la Tournelle, the restaurant is known for a stupendous view of the river and Notre Dame Cathedral from the sixth-floor dining room. The atmospheric wine cellar, two floors underground, houses some 300,000 bottles totaling an estimated $27 million.

La Tour d'Argent’s long history begins in 1582, when it first opened as an inn where King Henry III's nobility could dine. The restaurant soon was among the most fashionable places to eat in Europe.

It was rebuilt after the French Revolution. During the Paris Universal Exhibition of 1867, when countries showcased their finest inventions and products, Russian Czar Alexander II, the future Czar Alexander III, King Wilhelm I of Prussia and Prince Otto von Bismarck dined at the same table. In the 1930s, the building took the shape it has today, when the owners moved the kitchen and dining room upstairs to take advantage of the breathtaking views. During the Nazi occupation of Paris in 1940, the restaurant's then-owner hid his most prized wines behind a fake wall.

Normally, the wine cellar is under tight security. The bottles are numbered, making resale on the open market difficult. In recent years, though, several top restaurants have been struck by knowledgeable wine thieves , who are suspected of selling to private collectors.

Stay on top of important wine stories with Wine Spectator s free Breaking News Alerts .

You Might Also Like

Straight talk episode 21: salvestrin winemaker natalie winkler, plus … the world's strongest wine thieves.

The Napa Cabernet star tells us about her Oregon Pinot Noir epiphany, and why winemakers …

• Robert Taylor

Marco Felluga, White Wine Visionary in Italy’s Friuli, Dies at 96

The founder of the respected winery passed away; his family has also announced a new …

• Alison Napjus

Lettuce Entertain You and Evan Funke Open Tre Dita in Chicago

The new Tuscan restaurant is the first collaboration between the chef and the national …

• Collin Dreizen
• Kenny Martin

Napa Valley Versus Napa Valley

A growing number of Napa winemakers are confused and frustrated at county officials who …

• Aaron Romano

Eleanor Coppola, Filmmaker Who Helped Rebuild Inglenook Winery’s Legacy, Dies at 87

The artist, documentarian, author and vintner left her mark on Hollywood and Napa Valley

• MaryAnn Worobiec

China’s Trade War on Australian Wine Is Over—For Now

The Australian wine industry breathes a sigh of relief as Beijing lifts the punitive …

Free Wine Spectator Email Newsletters

Sign Up for Wine Spectator’s Free Email Newsletters and stay up-to-date with all things wine.

WineRatings+

Restaurant search, wine spectator podcasts.

• Get the App