Foreign office minister Henry Bellingham said Friday the department must generate new funds by selling off the most valuable bottles in its well-stocked wine cellar.
Bellingham says no public money will be spent over the next five years on supplies for the store - used to provide refreshments for government receptions and events. Instead, officials must use the "targeted sale of high-value stock" to fund future purchases and keep guests' glasses full.
The ministry holds stocks of dozens of exclusive vintages - including a 2,500 pound ($4,000) per bottle Chateau Petrus 1978.
