The Vinoteca wine bar group was bought out of administration this week, removing the threat of closure that had hung over the five-strong operation.

The new owners are Breal Capital, an investment firm which is understood to have paid more than £300,000 for the acquisition. Founded by financiers Brent Osborne and Alan McLaren in 2014, Breal has also acquired three brewery companies in similar circumstances this year: North Yorkshire’s Black Sheep Brewery and London’s Brick Brewery and Brew By Numbers.

Vinoteca was founded in 2005 and is praised in the 2023 Harden’s guide for its contemporary approach to wine. The original site, in Seymour Place, Marylebone, closed late last year and its first branch outside the capital, in Birmingham, was shuttered after less than a year in May.

The newest London branch, a dramatic two-story space (pictured) in the Borough Yards development next to Borough Market, opened in late 2021. The other branches are in King’s Cross, Farringdon, Chiswick and the City’s Bloomberg Arcade.

Last week, the group blamed its plight on “inflation, spiralling energy charges and regular train strikes”. All 150 jobs are thought to be secure as a result of the new deal, while co-founders Charlie Young and Brett Woonton are understood to retain shares in the business.

A spokesman for Breal said: “Vinoteca is a premier destination for wine enthusiasts, offering an exquisite collection of fine wines from around the world, complemented by an exceptional culinary experience.

“Beyond its outstanding collection of wines and delectable cuisine, Vinoteca distinguished itself through its commitment to education. The establishment will continue to host a series of events, workshops and tastings led by industry experts, allowing guests to deepen their appreciation and knowledge of the world of wine.

“Each bottle of wine has a story to tell, and we are delighted that Vinoteca can continue to share these stories.”