Win for wine lovers

Karratha residents were treated to the opening of a new wine and dine venue last week featuring the only temperature-controlled wine room north of Perth.

Fiorita Wine Bar and Restaurant, previously Fiorita Deli, opened on Thursday night after renovations turned the breakfast cafe and deli into a chic wine destination.

The wine room temperature was set at 19C, allowing for a comfortable drinking temperature despite the Pilbara heat.

Blanche Bar Group owner Bart Parsons mooted the renovations before the pandemic forced the closure of hospitality venues and said being shut down turned out to be an ideal time to renovate.

“It kind of gave us a bit of clear air, rather than trying to get something done in two weeks,” he said. “There is an upside of doing things in a harsh environment.

“Everyone has been very accommodating. People have been more than willing to help out, which has been good.”

Mr Parsons said while the venue focused on a long list of quality wines, it also had a creative food menu to match.

“The menu is pretty interesting. I think it’s a step up from where we have been at Blanche, so hopefully we can get a little bit of a launching pad to try and do some new things.” he said.

“There’s definitely going to be a focus on local seafood.”

Mr Parsons said good service and an intimate environment would also be a core aspect of the venue.