Marchmont wine merchant Peter Green to close after 101 years

Wine merchant Michael Romner is closing up shop next weekend. Picture: Jane Barlow

Peter Green & Co, of Warrender Park Road in Marchmont, first opened in 1915 and will close its doors for the last time next Saturday.

Owner Michael Romer, who has lived in Edinburgh since his parents bought the business from the eponymous Peter Green in 1947, will close the doors of the store alongside his assistant of 26 years, Alastair Johnston.

The wine-merchant’s has long been renowned for its extensive selection and unusual options, as well as its friendly and discerning service.

Speaking on the closure, Mr Romer said that although it seemed like the right time to close, the weekly wine tastings would be hugely missed.

He said: “We are sad to be closing, but it seems like the right time.

“The wine tasting events bring together all sorts of different people with different interests.

“It has always given me a lot of pleasure to see people talking to each other and finding things in common through the events.

“We’ve had many budding authors and artists who have met each other and got to know each other through the wine tasting events.

“Our biggest worry is losing contact with lots of people whom we’ve enjoyed meeting.”

However, despite closure, Mr Romer expressed his hope that loyal customers would stay in contact.

He said: “We’re going to have a commemoration in the local pub on Sunday.

“There’s a definite community feeling between the regulars, and I know there are many who will keep in touch.”

The owner spoke warmly of his time in the wine trade, saying that he had “met some wonderful characters”.

Despite the upcoming closure of Peter Green & Co Mr Romer assured wine connoisseurs that there are still plenty of options available for those who are reluctant to pick up their tipples from the local supermarket saying, “the unique culture of Edinburgh means that there are still lots of choices. We are very lucky”.

Customers and ex-staff expressed their sadness over the wine merchant’s closure. Writing on social media, Colin Imrie said: “Enjoyed a Christmas job there back in 1975. Good luck to everyone.”