A self-service wine bar has opened in what its founders describe as a “dream” location in Newcastle. The Angels’ Share has taken over a former Boots chemist’s shop on St George’s Terrace in Jesmond, and has 36 wines available at the tap of a contactless card as well as more standard bar and waiter service.
The couple behind the project, Kate and Daren Knipe (pictured in the middle), formerly managing director of Blackrose Pubs, want to make wine-tasting as accessible as possible – and take away the hassle of queuing at the bar: “Our self-service wine machines make it easy to try something new, or stick to what you know and love.”
Self-service wines are available in measures from 50 to 250ml, and there is an accompanying menu of light bites including charcuterie and cheeses, while the interior has been kitted out with high bar-style seating and tables along with leather lounge-style armchairs. Work by local artist Nicholas Pugh hanging on the walls is available for sale.
The ‘angels’ share’ is a traditional explanation for the volume of liquid that evaporates while wine is maturing in the barrel.