London wine bar Vagabond has said it is opening a winery in the centre of London and will make English wine.
Vagabond London winery
The Vagabond urban winery will most likely be at the re-vamped Battersea Power Station, opening next year, Vagabond founder Stephen Finch told Decanter.com.
‘The idea is to create a winery where people can drink wine on-site that’s been made on-site, and see how that wine is made,’ said Finch.
‘I’d like it to be like a US-style brewpub, but for wine. Basing such an operation in London will make it easy to get to, as opposed to relying on day trips to the countryside.’
Urban winemaking has become increasingly popular in recent years. Decanter contributing editor Jane Anson recently wrote of a rooftop vineyard in New York.
Built in the 1930s, Battersea Power Station is undergoing a redevelopment and will house apartments, shops and restaurants.
Vagabond’s move comes after Roberson opened the London Cru winery in West London in 2013. London Cru made its first English wine from the 2014 vintage.
English grapes only
Finch said the Vagabond urban winery would focus on making still white and rosé wines, using only English grapes.
‘Bacchus is a must, and we’re considering other grapes as well. And not necessarily single-varietal – I love Cape white blends, so am keen to explore an English equivalent.’
‘All early days, but it’s an exciting venture that I think is going to be unlike anything London has seen.’
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