The story
The Walrus & Corkscrew opened in April 2021 on the corner of Church Lane and Church Street as a personal venture. It operates as Inverness' only dedicated wine bar, drawing locals and visitors alike. The inventory expanded rapidly from an initial 45 bottles to a list exceeding 250 labels. Patrons frequently order the Rijks Touch Pinotage, which ranks as the top seller by the glass. The staff also points customers toward distinctive choices like the Douro red Boa Vida and the fruit-forward Pecorino from Italy's Marche region. This breadth of selection contributed to the venue earning a Local Gem award in the 2026 Good Food Guide.
The kitchen focuses on simple platters intended for sharing. Cheeses and dry-cured meats arrive sourced from Highland producers. These components pair with sourdough bread baked in the locality. The menu occasionally rotates in guest British cured options. Dietary needs including vegan and gluten-free preferences are accommodated when requested ahead of time. Larger parties can arrange custom mixed meat and cheese platters sized to their group. The food program supports the extensive drink list by emphasizing regional provenance and straightforward preparation.
The interior spans two levels to suit varying group dynamics. Downstairs seats up to 24 guests around a compact arrangement of tables. An upstairs tasting room provides seating for ten or standing capacity for twelve during events. Hosted tastings cover ranges from accessible mid-tier bottles to premium flights featuring renowned producers. Outdoor seating attracts visitors during warmer months. The venue welcomes dogs and families, with children permitted until ten pm while dining. Ground-floor access remains fully wheelchair-friendly. This Inverness wine bar balances a relaxed street-side presence with structured tasting experiences, maintaining a warm tone for every visit.
Recognition
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