Some restaurants serve wine. But at Grand Old House, wine is part of the architecture—both literally and figuratively.
Set in a 100-year-old colonial structure right along the edge of the Caribbean Sea, Grand Old House offers far more than a fine-dining experience. For those with a taste for depth, craftsmanship, and tradition, this venue has quietly established itself as one of the most respected wine destinations in the region.
And with over 2,100 wine labels in its cellar, it doesn’t just cater to wine lovers. It educates them, challenges them, and invites them back.
But as with all good things, the question eventually comes up:
What do premium wines in Cayman cost?
Let’s take a closer look at the experience, the pricing, and the value offered at this landmark destination.
Why Grand Old House Isn’t Just a Restaurant
It’s not just the view, though, yes, the sunset over the sea is hard to beat.
It’s the cellar.
- 2,100+ labels
- Award-winning vintages from France, Italy, Argentina, and beyond
- Some bottles are older than your favorite playlist
- A wine list so extensive it’s practically a novel
But the magic isn’t just in the number of bottles—it’s in how each glass is paired, poured, and presented with purpose.
The team here doesn’t sell wine. They serve experiences.
What Makes a Wine “Premium” Anyway?
Let’s break it down without the fluff.
- Grape Quality: Small-batch vineyards. Organic farming. Zero shortcuts.
- Production Process: Some wines are pressed, aged, and bottled like clockwork. Premium wines? Think hand-picked grapes, barrel-aging, and winemakers who obsess over every detail.
- Rarity: Limited editions. Single-vineyard productions. Once-it 's-gone-it 's-gone kind of bottles.
- Reputation: When a bottle earns praise from critics like Robert Parker or wins gold at Decanter World Wine Awards, it moves into “premium” territory.
And yes, premium often means pricier—but not always prohibitively so.
So… What’s the Real Cost of Wine in This Caribbean Destination?
Wine prices in the Cayman Islands can surprise you—in both directions.
Let’s talk about real numbers.
Everyday Indulgences at Grand Old House
- Crisp Italian Pinot Grigio – $40 to $55 per bottle
- Spanish Tempranillo – Starts at $60
- New World Sauvignon Blanc – Around $45
These are your “let’s order a second bottle” wines. Balanced, approachable, and great with food.
The Premium Experience
- 2015 Château Margaux – upwards of $1,000
- A vertical tasting flight of Opus One – $500+ per person
- Vintage Dom Pérignon – $400+
Are you paying for the label? Partly. But more so, you’re paying for rarity, craftsmanship, and time in a bottle.
Curious about the Cayman wine price landscape in general?
Here’s a rough guide across the territory:
| Wine Type | Average Price (USD) |
| House Wine (By the Glass) | $10 – $18 |
| Mid-Tier Bottle | $45 – $90 |
| Premium Bottle | $150 – $2,000+ |
But Is It Worth It?
Let’s talk about value, not just cost.
- A $200 bottle at Grand Old House might come with a tableside decanting ritual and stories from a sommelier who’s walked the vineyard it came from.
- A $25 glass might be poured with the same precision as one five times the price.
You’re not just buying fermented grape juice. You’re buying atmosphere, connection, and craftsmanship.
Plus, in a place where shipping alone adds complexity to inventory, the curation here is impressive.
Sommelier Secrets: What to Try First
First visit? Not sure where to start? Here’s a shortlist recommended by in-house experts:
- Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Champagne – A crisp opener. Great with seafood.
- Antinori Tignanello 2018 – Complex. Bold. Perfect with grilled meats.
- Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon – A guest favorite for a reason.
- Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc – Light and refreshing, ideal for island evenings.
Want to sound like you know what you're doing? Ask for something “with bright acidity” or “a bottle that plays well with spice.” The team will guide you from there.
How to Get the Most from Your Visit
You don’t need to be a sommelier to enjoy fine wine, but a little prep goes a long way.
Ask Questions
Not sure if the wine you’re eyeing is worth the price? Just ask. Staff here are trained to guide—not upsell.
Pair Smartly
Trust the food menu. The wines are listed for a reason. Lobster with a crisp white. Ribeye with a bold red. And desserts? Don’t skip the late harvest Riesling.
Join a Wine Dinner
Grand Old House often hosts ticketed events where you can taste 5+ wines paired with a multi-course meal. Think of it as wine tasting with structure—and zero pressure.
Final Thoughts
Fine wine doesn’t have to be intimidating. At Grand Old House, it’s simply a way of life, quietly elegant, intentionally crafted, and surprisingly approachable. Whether you’re here for a date night or a deep dive into oenology, the wine list is ready to tell a story worth sipping.
And the price? Well, let’s just say that in this part of the Caribbean, a glass can offer far more than what’s on the bill.
