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(TJV) After more than a year of closure following a scandal, a New York judge, Suzanne Adams, has approved an “order of ejectment” enabling Glorious Sun, the landlord of Sherry-Lehmann’s flagship store at 505 Park Ave, to reclaim the space, NY Post reported
The renowned wine retailer, frequented by notable figures such as Henry Kissinger, Greta Garbo, and Andy Warhol, closed its doors on March 10, 2023, due to allegations of selling alcohol with an expired license.
Sherry-Lehmann, founded in 1934 by Sam Aaron and Jack Aaron, had relocated to Park Avenue in 2007, paying nearly $2 million annually for a 9,500-square-foot space. Despite its illustrious history, the retailer faced financial challenges, exacerbated by costly business decisions.
Glorious Sun, owed over $4.8 million in unpaid rent, initiated legal proceedings to retake control of the property. The closure of the store left shelves filled with outdated merchandise and fixtures gathering dust.
Efforts to clear the premises have been delayed, partly due to pandemic-related court backlogs. However, recent developments suggest progress in emptying the space, with glass doors covered and display windows concealed behind sheetrock walls.
While speculation persists about the potential auction of remaining fixtures, including historic wine barrels and memorabilia, investigations continue into alleged financial improprieties, including unpaid sales tax and unfulfilled wine orders. Federal agencies, including the FBI and the US Postal Inspection Service, have been involved in probing the matter.
Despite the store’s storied past and its role in introducing fine French wines to the US market, the fate of Sherry-Lehmann’s legacy remains uncertain as legal battles and financial woes persist.
