Way back in 1796, brothers Robert and John Cockburn established what is now Scotland's 'oldest' wine and spirit merchant.
With Edinburgh enjoying a period of incredible growth, the brothers set their sights on creating a business that would bring the best wine and spirits from around the world to the upper classes.
In 2010, the company feared they would fall into administration but were saved by Murray Capital - with a new bottle shop and tasting facility set up on Frederick Street.
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Since then, Cockburns has seen a rise in demand for events and is going from strength to strength. In the two centuries since the firm was created, they've served the likes of Sir Walter Scott, Charles Dickens and King George IV.
From the 'vineyards of Bordeaux to the docks of Leith', the Cockburn brothers served the 'creative genius' of Enlightenment Edinburgh and shipped fine wines and spirits to all four corners of the earth.
In 1822, King George IV became a regular client and this led to Cockburns adding a Royal Warrant to their name. The brothers also had an older brother, Lord Henry Cockburn, who was a prominent lawyer in the city.
Back in the days when Edinburgh lacked a parliament, he became the go to 'minister for Scotland'. Today, he is remembered on Cockburn Street in the old town, as well as the Cockburn Association which is committed to the protection of Edinburgh's heritage.
As for the families wine and spirit history, there are records of generations selling wine between Scotland and England in the late sixteenth century. Reportedly, one shipment was seized by pirates on a voyage north from London.
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The Cockburn brothers mother, Janet Rennie, was connected to a separate Leith based wine merchant - Rannie, Bell & Co. It's thought it was here that the brothers developed interest and skill in the industry.
According to records, Sir Walter Scott was one of the most active customers of the firm. He and his wife Charlotte supposedly referred to Robert, who emerged as the lead of the business, as 'my dear Cockburn'.
On many occasions thorughout the 1810s and 20s, the Scott's ordered vast amounts of sherry, madeira, whisky and rum. The brothers passed on the business in the early 19th century, with Robert moving to Portugal.
His sons, Archibald and Alexander, took on the company on and it rose to new heights of success. They opened additional offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh and London.
On New Year's Eve, 1868, an order was placed by Charles Dickens. Now, they've opened new premises on Frederick Street and hope to 'bring one the city's most treasured names in drinking and hospitality home'.
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