Everything old is new again at Ashford Castle in County Mayo, Ireland, where a $75 million transformation revealed a long-ago limestone coal bunker in an unused tunnel beneath the castle that’s been transformed into a gorgeous wine cellar perfect for tastings and private gatherings. The conversion of the tunnel, which once served as a walkway beneath the castle and an entrance used by servants, includes a private guest entrance lobby, tasting rooms and state-of-the art temperature-controlled storage for the castle’s renowned collection of red, white and sparkling wines. The space has also been fitted with a Coravin tasting system that allows tastings by the glass.

One of the world’s most superb castle hotels, Ashford Castle soars above the banks of Lough Corrib and the River Cong, spread across 350 acres against a breathtaking setting of forest, water and mountains. The tunnel space provides a welcome addition to the already extensive wine cellars, which originally housed the Guinness family wines, Madeira and ports. The current collection, assembled by the castle’s four dedicated sommeliers, features New and Old World wines, coveted vintages and wines from parent company Red Carnation’s boutique South African vineyards, Bouchard Finlayson. A Winemaker Dinner Series is planned, and a sommelier is on hand daily to lend expertise to guests wishing to select a wine for dinner at any of the estate’s dining rooms.