THE MUCH-LOVED Wine Shop at Fenwick Newcastle will undergo a complete design transformation as part of the grand redevelopment of the Food Hall this summer.
The remodel is an innovative wine concept, bridging the gap between traditional wine retail and restaurant style wine service. While retaining the heritage of the Fenwick Wine Shop, there will be a modern approach to experiencing wines in an accessible way.
A key feature of the new Wine Department will be a state-of-the-art Enomatic wine dispensing system – the first of its kind in the region. This will allow customers to buy credits and self-select a 50ml ‘sip’ to sample from an extensive selection of wines.
Fenwick Wine Shop Buyer and leading wine specialist Robin Winterschladen, said: “To be the first retailer in the region to house an Enomatic wine dispenser is a really exciting prospect. The technology serves wines at their optimum temperatures, ensuring a superior wine-tasting experience for our customers as they try wines from around the world.
“They can also expect to find a refreshed range of wine, spirits and beers, with the introduction of lesser known, boutique producers.”
The Wine Shop will also take on a more contemporary look, with spirits displayed on purpose-built shelving that reaches 4 metres high and is accessed by a bespoke library ladder.
A sparkling new addition to the team is Assistant to the Buyer, Fiona McLain, who has experience of working as a sommelier at five star hotel Rockliffe Hall in County Durham and at wine merchant Firth & Co.
After undergoing training this summer, the team of in-store specialists will be on hand to give expert advice on a range of over 200 whiskies, 40 gins and numerous rare liqueurs.
The Wine Shop will be linked to the recently-announced Fuego Mediterranean restaurant and wine bar and the Enomatic system will also allow for a wider selection of wines by the glass to be enjoyed either at the bar or with a meal.
Robin added: “In addition to being able to sample the range of wines from the Enomatic system, customers will also be able to experience our wine flights, paired to go with Fuego platters and dishes. The wine flights – a selection of 50ml ‘sips’ – are a great opportunity to enjoy a collection of wines within a grape variety, set style (such as crisp and dry whites) or that are matched to food selection.”