Who We Are

Claret Club is an initiative established by Denis Houlès, who has a 10-year track record of buying fine wine for clients, as well as direct access to the managers and owners of the leading châteaux.

Denis is the founder of Claret Club, a dedicated members-only organisation that acts for some of the world’s most serious collectors, and, consequently, he has great expertise in sourcing the best wines.

From offices in London and Geneva, Claret Club organises events in locations around the world, where members dine with international wine celebrities and estate owners.

Denis's knowledge of wine is complemented by a solid background in engineering and business. An MBA from the Graduate School of Business at Stanford University, he has worked for Procter & Gamble in Rome and McKinsey & Company in London. Denis brings a unique combination of creative thinking and analytical skills to the business of selecting and negotiating purchases of fine wine.

Stephen joined Claret Club in 2011 with a focus on the UK membership. A former banker, Stephen created, designed and launched a successful restaurant in Copenhagen. His knowledge and expertise complement his passion for the experience of fine wine and dining.

Denis Houlès

Denis Houlès biography

  • A French national who graduated from French Grandes Écoles

  • Holds a post-graduate degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston

  • Worked with Procter & Gamble in Rome

  • Worked with McKinsey & Company in London

  • Holds an MBA from the Graduate School of Business at Stanford University

  • Founder & CEO of Claret Club, an exclusive membership club that operates in London and Geneva

Denis Houlès

Stephen Collins biography

  • A Canadian national based in the UK

  • Holds a bachelor’s degree in Business and Psychology from the University of Western Ontario 

  • Worked in Small Business Banking for the Bank of Nova Scotia in Vancouver

  • Managed top restaurants in Canada and Denmark

  • Co-Founder and former CEO of Tight Restaurant in Copenhagen

  • Managing Director for Claret Club