House Wine

Let’s be honest. The world of wine can have its exclusive, and shall we say, somewhat snobby pockets. This friendly neighbourhood wine bar and shop in the heart of New Plymouth places itself in a whole other nook. House Wine warmly invites anybody and everybody to pop in for a glass of something delicious. It’s a place where you needn’t know the most about wine – simply liking it is more than enough.

Opening in the winter of 2023 by Jules and Lauren van Costello, House Wine is the home of Known Unknown, the couple’s urban winery which produces organically grown and low-intervention wine, alongside cider and aperitifs. From Thursday to Saturday, wine lovers can enjoy a selection of Known Unknown wines by the glass, as a wine flight or to take home, joined by other organic drops from friends in Aotearoa and further afield. Local craft beer, cider, mixes and interesting non-alcoholic tipples are also available.

A great drink calls for some equally great nibbles – and House Wine once again hits the mark. The snack menu changes seasonally with appearances from all the classics: cheese, charcuterie, olives and flatbreads that are *chef’s kiss* (as of this very moment, the garlic, anchovy and chilli topping is a fan favourite).

The eye-catching interior of House Wine reflects both the welcoming hospitality and colour-popping labels on each bottle of Known Unknown wine. Bright shades and retro motifs have been hand-painted throughout by Lauren, with window illustrations drawn by a local artist. While it may be petite in size, the vibrancy is infectious and you can’t help but have a hell of a good time here.

Though a recent addition to New Plymouth’s wine and food scene, House Wine has quickly become a key player, filling the streetscape with something different, a little bit funky and undeniably fun.