Local art, small plates and self-serve wine are all on the menu at a unique wine lounge which opened its doors in Jesmond earlier this month, with legal support from Mincoffs Solicitors.
Angel’s Share, which has transformed the former Boots building at St George’s Terrace, is the brainchild of former managing director of Blackrose Pubs, Daren Knipe and his wife Kate.
The venue has already proved popular with residents, with a feature wall of self-serve dispensers allowing customers to sample wines not usually served by the glass and from a variety of new and traditional regions.
All but one of the champagnes on offer can be served by the glass and locally sourced ingredients feature heavily in sharing boards and small plates.
Owners have repurposed existing shelving, mesh and prescription books from the 1930s and 1940s in its décor as a nod to its pharmaceutical predecessor, while artwork from North East artists adorns the walls – all of which is available to purchase.
Featuring muted tones, exposed brick and al fresco seating, Angel’s Share also has the capacity to accommodate larger groups – with its second floor available for private hire and events.
Mincoffs’ licensing and gaming partner Matt Foster and real estate associate solicitor Keith Ravenhill advised the couple from the outset.
This involved developing and communicating the concept to successfully obtain a premises licence after local opposition and working with the landlord and solicitors to agree a lease for the space.
“Mincoffs from the very start guided and helped us to obtain the change of use and lease to make our venture a reality,” said Daren and Kate Knipe.
“At every stage they were there with advice, and they became invaluable sounding boards. The project just would not have been possible without Mincoffs involved and many said it wasn’t possible.
“They will be the first we will speak to when planning our next project and location for Angel’s Share.”
“From the moment we were approached by Daren and Kate with the concept it was clear that Angel’s Share would be popular,” said Matt, “and it’s brilliant to see how local residents have received the venue since it opened its doors.
“The team have done a fantastic job with the renovation and the venue is a great addition to Jesmond’s existing offering.”
Keith said: “Angel’s Share is in a brilliant location and Daren and Kate were the perfect proprietors to make the most of the space and its potential.
“We look forward to working together again in the future and wish them both success with the venue.”
Mincoffs Solicitors has provided expert legal services and advice across the North East and beyond for more than 75 years.
Alongside corporate and commercial services, the firm’s offering includes real estate, dispute resolution, employment law, licensing and gaming, residential conveyancing, family law and wills, probate and trusts.
