In fact, natural wine is only just manifesting. Slowly taking over the scene in the Northern Quarter and Ancoats in particular, the trendy new beverage – which opts for low intervention wine-making methods rather than mass production – has officially become the drink of the summer (if not the decade), with Flawd Wine in Manchester cementing its newfound status.
Taking over a vacant space on New Islington’s thriving Marina, Joseph Otway (formerly Head Chef at Stockport’s Where The Light Gets In) and the team behind Higher Ground returned in the summer of 2021 with new concept Flawd – a brand new business that aims to shine a spotlight on low-intervention wines made by small-scale producers, as well as locally-brewed beers.
Initially opening as a pop-up at Pollen, guests can now soak up the sun by the waterside, while enjoying a glass of natural wine, British cheeses and tasty charcuterie. Operating with a similar ethos to Higher Ground, Flawd champions locally-made and British produce, working with Brighton-based Rebel for their charcuterie offering.
Boasting lovely waterside vibes, the permanent residence sits just a few doors down from the cult-favourite Pollen Bakery, forming part of the Mansion House development, which has welcomed a number of new residents to the area.
Boasting both indoor and outdoor seating, guests can enjoy an impressive selection of natty wines whatever the weather, with a range designed to make natural wine more approachable than ever. The casual wine bar also offers cheeses, charcuterie and a constantly changing seasonal food menu, making for the perfect aperitivo before dinner.
Speaking of the venture on its opening, Joseph said: “We really just want to open a neighbourhood wine bar for the growing New Islington community; to create a space for people to drink great wine, relax and have fun.”
Flawd’s permanent residence is open:
- Wednesday & Thursday, 5pm−11pm
- Friday, 4pm−12am
- Saturday, 12pm−12am
- Sunday, 1pm−10pm
- Closed Monday & Tuesday
Flawd is located at 9 Keepers Quay, Manchester M4 6GL.