A breezy bar-cum-bottle shop where next-wave wines and sharp snacks collide to form an out-of-this world experience orchestrated by deceptively casual yet savvy staff.
The nation’s capital isn’t necessarily known for being at the forefront of the drinks scene, but Paranormal Wines is here to change Canberra’s thinking. With a name that’s out of this world, and shelves heaving with the weird and wonderful, this bar-bottle shop flipped the script for how to drink in and take away in the ACT when it launched at the end of 2020 – no real waiters, no real chefs, a chalkboard menu of whatever is being poured by the glass. No frills, no fuss.
But the trick is just how good it is. Co-owner Max Walker once took care of the wine at Sydney’s LP’s Quality Meats, so he not only knows how to put together a drinks list, but he also really knows his way around a snack. Salami, for instance, comes from LP’s. Anchovies, served with toasted sourdough, are big and plump and rich. Creamy Italian burrata cheese is handmade and dressed just with olive oil, salt and pepper. Simple, but very effective.
Grab a spot outside or sidle up to the bar, and a member of the team might pour you the latest release from a forward-thinking local winery, then drop off a plate of mortadella and pickles for grazing. Then there’s the chance to wander around the shelves to choose a bottle to drink in or take away, with both classic and alternative drops in high supply.
Paranormal is all things to all people. Yes, you can (and should) settle in on the terrace for a long afternoon or evening session, but part of the appeal here is that you don’t have to stay to have a good time. Staff will be just as happy to serve you whether you’re dropping by for a glass and a bite before you head to dinner elsewhere, or grabbing a chilled red to pair with a takeaway pizza or some fizz for a picnic in the park. It’s all encouraged, and they’ll still be here for you when you inevitably find your way back next time.
If you do hang around, though, you’re in very good hands. Staff might seem casual, rocking custom tees, denim, high-tops and maybe the occasional mullet, but don’t be fooled – they all know their wares and take pride in steering you in the right direction. The other draw is the crowd, ranging from in-the-know drinkers to the cream of the hospitality crop. Whatever the time, whatever the day, a Paranormal experience will put you right in the centre of what’s current, and keep you well fed and watered in the meantime.
