CBD Favourite Embla Is Opening a Boutique Wine Store Next Door Called Punchin' Bottles

Fancy being able to shop an expert curation of wine, handpicked by two of the state's industry heavyweights? That's exactly the situation you're in for when restaurateur Christian McCabe (the man behind Embla and Lesa) and renowned winemaker Patrick Sullivan open the doors to their new boutique bottle shop in the CBD.

The excellently named Punchin' Bottles will make its home in the space next door to Embla on Russell Street, from Wednesday, January 15, the new drinks destination will be shining a spotlight on Victorian drops, alongside a solid collection of carefully sourced European wines. Expect to find a rotating lineup of locally produced small-batch labels and top international finds, with plenty flying the flag for sustainable winemaking practices. And, if you've ever found yourself being expertly guided through the wine list next door, you'll also know to expect some pretty top-notch service and advice, to match the store's winning curation of wine.

Patrick Sullivan and Christian McCabe, shot by Elika Rowell.

Punchin' Bottles is also set to host a series of weekly wine tasting sessions, showcasing favourites from both close to home and overseas. The program kicks off Wednesday, January 22, with a tasting of Adelaide Hills' Gentle Folk Wines, followed by some treats from Campbell Burton Wines on January 24 and 25.

Find Punchin' Bottles at 124 Russell Street, Melbourne from January 15. Sign up to the newsletter for details on the upcoming wine tasting program.

Image: Embla.