Imperial Treasure, on St James, is especially renowned for its dim sum and Peking duck but the standard of cuisine across dishes is high. It sports an impressive wine list, including a commendable line-up of well-priced, drinking vintages of Bordeaux, something of a rarity at the majority of restaurants in the area, outside of the nearby Member’s Clubs. In a short interview below, head sommelier Thushaj Thulaseedharan reveals some of the vinous treasures on the list and has a great wine offer for Honest Grapes club members until the end of May…
First, tell us a little more about your wine background
“My career has taken me across renowned establishments, from Shangri-La Abu Dhabi to Imperial Treasure Fine Chinese in London. One of my most fulfilling achievements was launching the Shangri-La Abu Dhabi Wine Club in 2018, which grew into a thriving community of over 500 wine enthusiasts. I have also had the opportunity to work on exciting projects, such as hosting Michelin-starred pop-up events and designing unique themed wine dinners. Beyond my technical expertise in wine selection, menu curation, and cellar management, I am passionate about mentoring and training teams. I believe that knowledge and enthusiasm go hand in hand in delivering exceptional service. Currently pursuing Diploma in WSET, I constantly seek to expand my understanding of the industry and stay ahead of emerging trends. For me, working with wines and beverages is not just a job—it’s a craft and a story waiting to be told. Every bottle has a history, every pairing has a purpose, and every guest interaction is an opportunity to create a memorable experience. I look forward to continuing my journey, bringing creativity, expertise, and a personal touch to everything I do."
How would you describe the wine list at Imperial Treasure?
“The list combines classic and emerging wine regions, offering a curated selection that balances renowned terroirs with hidden gems from lesser-known producers.
Emerging Regions: Standout selections include Hungary’s Barta Pince, Öreg Király Dűlő, which highlights the country’s exceptional dry wines beyond the famed Tokaji, and Greece’s Kanakaris 103, Malagousia, an aromatic and fresh Mediterranean white that showcases the depth of Greek viticulture. These choices reflect a commitment to regional authenticity and the unique expression of traditional grape varieties.
Cult Wines: The list also features prestigious, highly sought-after wines, including Sine Qua Non (California), Emidio Pepe (Italy), and Nicolas Joly (France). These producers are revered for their limited production, distinctive winemaking philosophies, and collector appeal—from Sine Qua Non’s Rhône-inspired blends to Emidio Pepe’s age-worthy Montepulciano and Nicolas Joly’s benchmark biodynamic Loire wines.
This diverse selection caters to adventurous drinkers eager to explore new regions while also appealing to classic wine lovers with esteemed, collectible labels. Additionally, a strong emphasis has been placed on organic and biodynamic wines, reinforcing a commitment to sustainability and terroir-driven winemaking."
Can you highlight some real “hidden gems” (white and red) on the wine list that offer amazing value and/or come from lesser-known regions or varieties?
Champagne:
2017 Louis Roederer Rosé Brut (Champagne, France) - £218
White Wines:
Josef Philipp Bründlmayer, Ried Vordernberg, Neuburger (Kamptal, Austria) - £68
2021 Barta Pince, Öreg Király Dűlő, Furmint (Tokaj, Hungary) - £88
2022 Domaine Claude Riffault, Monoparcelle 538 - £148
2018 Emidio Pepe, Trebbiano d’Abruzzo, Trebbiano (Abruzzo, Italy) - £198
Red Wines:
2021 Mas la Mola Vi d’Altura Negre DOCa, Garnacha, Garnacha Peluda (Priorat, Spain) - £88
2016 Domaine Rapet, Savigny-lès-Beaune Premier Cru ‘Aux Fourneaux’ (Burgundy, France) - £158
2018 Charles Melton Nine Popes, Grenache, Shiraz, Mourvèdre (Barossa Valley, Australia) - £188
What are some favourite food and wine pairings on your current menu?
Crispy Fish Skin with Salted Egg Yolk and Crispy Soft-Shell Crab with Soy Crumble
- paired with Louis Roederer Collection 245
Signature Peking Duck (First Course)
- paired with Château de Chamirey, Mercurey, Pinot Noir
Salt Pepper Duck (Second Course)
- paired with 2018 Pieropan, Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva DOCG
Hot Sour Soup
- paired with 2022 Château de Vaudieu, Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc
Spicy Aubergine with Minced Pork & Salted Fish
- paired with 2018 San Polo, Brunello di Montalcino, Sangiovese
Name a white and red from your list that would be a real treat for a special occasion.
White: 2022 Domaine de la Choupette, Vieilles Vignes, Puligny Montrachet
Red: 2013 Alban Vineyards Reva, Syrah
HONEST GRAPES OFFER
Until the end of May, you and your guests can enjoy a complimentary glass of either the following white or red that I’ve chosen from the list. Just mention Honest Grapes when booking lunch or dinner:
White: Tenuta Santa Seraffa, Gavi del Comune di Gavi, Gavi DOCG, Cortese (Piedmont, Italy)
Red: Le Volte dell’Ornellaia, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot (Tuscany, Italy)
Restrictions
Only the wines listed above are included; sparkling wine, Champagne, and rosé are excluded.
If an Honest Grapes member is accompanied by an underage guest, neither will be eligible for the complimentary wine.
The offer must be redeemed on the same day and cannot be postponed.
A maximum of six glasses applies per group or individual booking.
Reservations are mandatory; walk-ins mentioning Honest Grapes will not be accepted. Members must mention their wine club affiliation when booking to receive the complimentary glass of wine.