Amethyst, the cutting-edge Mayfair restaurant from chef Carlo Scotto that launched to rave reviews a year ago, is opening a basement wine bar off Piccadilly with its own menu of distinctive small plates.

Vinum promises rare and vintage wines by the glass chosen by head sommelier Ennio Pucciarelli from Amethyst’s cellar, including wines from Greece, India and South Africa.

Born in Naples, Carlo is heavily influenced by Japanese and Scandinavian cuisines – although Amethyst is almost as well known for its extraordinary zig-zag table as for its distinctive menu.

For Vinum’s opening Carlo has lined up a menu of snacks including homemade bread with Tête de Moine cheese & saffron caramel; Japanese scallops with wasabi caviar & teriyaki; and truffle arancini with parmesan cheese & gochujang mayo.

Vinum opens on Tuesday 2 May at 6 Sackville Street, around the corner from the Royal Academy. It seats just 16 guests, and is available on a walk-in basis from 5.30pm on Tuesdays–Saturdays.