Inside New York’s First Luxury Spirits Boutique and the Art of Whisky Collection
Welcome to Collezione New York, a groundbreaking establishment on Madison Ave near 66th Street. This exclusive store, hailed as New York’s first luxury spirits boutique, offers an unparalleled experience for spirits connoisseurs. The visionary behind this venture is Stefano Pileggi, a renowned whisky collector, who has spent over two decades curating an extraordinary selection of rare Scotches, wines, and other spirits.
Upon entering the store, one is immediately struck by its intentionally minimalist design. The carefully chosen collection takes center stage, with no dusty bottles hidden away or locked behind glass doors. Pileggi’s goal is to fill the void in the luxury spirits market. As he explains, There’s no luxury experience when you buy a bottle that’s worth thousands of dollars. You don’t get the same experience that you do when you buy a nice watch, a suit, or a car.
With a vast collection that primarily focuses on The Macallan, Pileggi brings his expertise and passion to Collezione. Each visit is guided by Pileggi himself or a knowledgeable floor manager, who can provide insights into various Macallan expressions or Champagnes. For a truly extraordinary experience, guests can explore the private back room, which even houses a hidden third room. Here, Pileggi proudly showcases rare bottles from his personal collection, including Macallans from the 1940s.
Collezione’s inventory is a testament to Pileggi’s dedication and discerning taste. Alongside the complete range of 18-year-old Macallans bottled between 1954 and 1986, visitors can marvel at extremely rare Japanese whiskies and other scarce Scotch expressions. Notable highlights include the Bowmore collaboration with Aston Martin, featuring whisky from 1964, an 81-year-old Macallan, and a previously unreleased Hibiki bottle exclusive to the United States.
While the price range of these exceptional spirits may seem extravagant, Collezione aims to provide a unique opportunity. Pileggi explains, If you buy a Macallan 30, which costs thousands of dollars… instead of waiting for a special occasion, now you can try it before you buy it. Although this exclusive tasting is not available to every customer, it reflects Collezione’s commitment to offering a truly elevated experience.
For those seeking exceptional spirits without breaking the bank, Collezione also presents a selection of more affordable options. With a soon-to-be-expanded range that includes American whiskey and tequila, there is something for every discerning palate. This boutique is not the place to find your everyday bottles; it caters specifically to whisky collectors and individuals with a taste for truly exceptional wines.
Collezione embodies Pileggi’s personal journey as a collector and customer, striving to create an unparalleled experience for fellow enthusiasts. Drawing inspiration from the atmosphere of high-end watch stores, Pileggi emphasizes the importance of individuals feeling valued and not lost in the crowd. He desires that every customer feels a sense of exclusivity and personal attention.
Beyond being a retail establishment, Collezione is a haven for those who appreciate the art and craftsmanship of spirits. With its unique collection and unwavering commitment to providing an elevated experience, this boutique is poised to make its mark on the luxury spirits industry. Step inside and indulge in a world where fine spirits are not just commodities but cherished works of art.
