Christmas Special

Every June, Pride Month gives us an opportunity to celebrate diversity, champion inclusion, and recognise the incredible contributions of LGBTQ+ people within our communities. At Wine Monkey, Pride Month is not just about displaying a rainbow flag for a few weeks each year—it’s about reinforcing values that are important to us every day. As an independent wine business based in Chippenham, we believe that great wine brings people together. Whether you’re joining us for a glass at The Cellar, attending one of our events, or browsing our carefully curated selection in the Bottle Shop, our aim is simple: to create a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable, respected, and valued A Place for Everyone Wine Monkey was founded on the idea that wine should be accessible, enjoyable, and free from pretension. We wanted to create an environment where people could explore new wines, meet friends, celebrate special occasions, and discover something different. That same philosophy extends to how we welcome people through our doors. We are proud to be recognised as an LGBTQ+ friendly venue and a transgender safe space. We believe that everyone deserves to enjoy a night out, attend an event, or simply relax with a glass of wine without fear of judgement or exclusion. Creating an inclusive environment isn’t a marketing exercise—it’s about treating people with kindness, respect, and dignity. Supporting Our Local Community One of the things we love most about being based in Chippenham is the strength and diversity of our local community. Throughout the year, we enjoy hosting a wide range of events that bring people together, from wine tastings and live music to creative workshops and social gatherings. Pride Month is another opportunity to celebrate that community spirit. This year we’re delighted to be taking part in Chippenham Pride weekend, welcoming guests to The Cellar for an evening of live music, great wine, and good company. Events like these remind us how important local businesses can be in creating spaces where people feel connected and accepted. Wine, Conversation and Connection At its heart, wine has always been about bringing people together. A shared bottle can spark conversations, create memories, and introduce us to new perspectives. Some of our favourite moments at Wine Monkey come from seeing strangers become friends, customers discover a new favourite wine, or groups gather to celebrate life’s milestones. We believe those experiences should be available to everyone. Whether you’re a long-time member of the LGBTQ+ community, an ally, or simply someone looking for a welcoming place to spend time with friends, you’ll always find a warm welcome at Wine Monkey. Looking Beyond Pride Month While Pride Month provides an important moment of visibility and celebration, inclusion is something that should continue throughout the year. At Wine Monkey, we’re committed to fostering a culture of openness, respect, and belonging every day. We will continue to support events, conversations, and initiatives that help make our community stronger and more inclusive. Join Us This Pride Month If you’re celebrating Pride Month in Chippenham, we’d love to welcome you to Wine Monkey and The Cellar. Come and discover a new favourite wine, enjoy one of our events, or simply stop by for a glass and a chat. However you choose to celebrate, we hope you’ll join us in raising a glass to diversity, acceptance, and community. Sunday, 14th June | 5–8pm20 Borough Parade, Chippenham Happy Pride Month from everyone at Wine Monkey. Wine Monkey is proud to be an LGBTQ+ friendly venue and transgender safe space, welcoming all wine lovers to explore, discover and enjoy great wine in a relaxed and inclusive environment. Cheers,The Wine Monkey Team

At Wine Monkey, hospitality has always been about more than simply serving food and wine. It is about bringing people together, sharing stories, supporting local communities and creating experiences that people remember long after the last glass has been poured. That is why Wine Monkey is delighted to announce a new collaboration with The Duke Hotel, Hilmarton. This partnership brings together two independent hospitality businesses with a shared passion for quality, authenticity and celebrating the people behind great food and wine. Together, Wine Monkey founder Bryan and The Duke Hotel’s Head Chef Matteo will be hosting a series of themed dining events inspired by the regions, traditions and experiences that have shaped their journeys. Why Collaborate? Independent hospitality businesses face more challenges than ever. From rising costs and staffing pressures to increasing competition from national chains, running a small hospitality business requires resilience, creativity and a strong connection to the local community. Yet independent venues remain at the heart of our towns and villages, creating character, supporting local suppliers and offering something genuinely unique. Rather than viewing one another as competitors, Wine Monkey and The Duke Hotel believe that independent businesses are strongest when they work together. Both businesses share a commitment to quality over convenience, personality over uniformity and genuine hospitality over passing trends. Most importantly, both believe that collaboration creates stronger businesses, better customer experiences and a more vibrant local community. This new series is a celebration of that philosophy. How It Started Like many good ideas, this one began through friendship. Over the years, Matteo and Bryan have spent countless hours discussing food, wine, travel, hospitality and the experiences that have shaped their careers. Matteo, Head Chef at The Duke Hotel, brings Sicilian heritage, Mediterranean influences and a deep respect for seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking. His food is rooted in authenticity whilst embracing the creativity and individuality that make independent hospitality so exciting. Bryan’s own wine journey began in the Roussillon region of southern France, often referred to as French Catalonia. It was there that he lived, worked and studied wine, developing a lasting appreciation for the connection between local food, regional culture and the wines that bring them together. Bringing those experiences together felt like a natural next step. First Event: Catalan Tapas Night at Wine Monkey The first evening in the collaboration series takes place at Wine Monkey and is inspired by a region that remains incredibly close to Bryan’s heart. The Catalan Tapas Night celebrates the food and wine culture of Catalonia and the neighbouring Roussillon region, where Bryan’s wine journey first began. Living in French Catalonia gave him a deep appreciation not only for the wines of the region, but also for the landscapes, traditions and food culture that have evolved alongside them. Many of the dishes associated with Catalan cuisine have been perfected over centuries to complement the local wines, creating pairings that feel completely natural. For this event, Matteo has created a menu inspired by the flavours of Catalonia and the wider Mediterranean, whilst Bryan has carefully selected a range of wines from the region to accompany each course and share the stories behind the producers, places and traditions that make these wines so special. Guests can expect an evening of exceptional food, thoughtfully chosen wines and plenty of stories from one of Europe’s most fascinating wine regions. Second Event: Sicilian Supper Club at The Duke Hotel The collaboration continues on Saturday 27 June with the Sicilian Supper Club at The Duke Hotel. This event is particularly personal for Matteo, celebrating his Sicilian heritage through a menu inspired by the flavours, ingredients and traditions of the island. The evening will feature a tasting menu paired with premium Southern Italian wines, carefully selected to complement each course and showcase the character of Sicily’s vineyards. The menu includes: Wild mushroom arancini with truffle cream Parmigiana di melanzane Octopus carpaccio with orange and fennel Casarecce alla Norma Sea bream with saffron potato cream and salmoriglio Pistachio semifreddo Sicilian lemon granita with brioche col tuppo Alongside the food, Bryan will guide guests through a selection of Southern Italian wine pairings, sharing the stories behind the regions, producers and traditions that make Sicilian wine so distinctive. It promises to be a celebration of Sicily’s incredible culinary heritage and an opportunity to experience the island through both its food and its wines. Looking Ahead Whilst these first two events focus on Catalonia and Sicily, they are only the beginning. The ambition is to continue creating evenings that celebrate regional food and wine traditions, independent producers and the stories that connect them. Future events will continue to explore the relationship between food, wine, culture and place, whilst supporting the independent businesses and producers that make these experiences possible. More than anything, this collaboration demonstrates what can happen when local independent businesses work together, combining their skills, creativity and passions to create something that benefits not only themselves, but the wider community around them. Wine Monkey and The Duke Hotel, Hilmarton look forward to welcoming guests to the first of what they hope will be many memorable evenings together. Cheers,The Wine Monkey Team

Chêne Bleu: From the Rhône Valley to Hollywood Some wines quietly earn their reputation among collectors and sommeliers. Others become part of popular culture. Over the last few years, Chêne Bleu has managed to do both. The iconic Rhône producer has appeared in the hit HBO series Succession and has now reportedly featured in The Devil Wears Prada 2 — putting one of France’s most respected boutique wineries firmly in the spotlight. At Wine Monkey, we’re proud to be the official UK retailer for Chêne Bleu wines, bringing these exceptional bottles directly to wine lovers who want something beyond the ordinary. Why Is Everyone Talking About Chêne Bleu? Nestled high in the hills of Provence on the slopes of Mont Ventoux, Chêne Bleu has built a cult following for producing elegant, small-production wines that combine Rhône power with remarkable finesse. Founded at the historic La Verrière estate, the winery has become internationally recognised for: sustainable and biodynamic vineyard practices low-intervention winemaking tiny production quantities exceptional ageing potential critical acclaim from wine critics worldwide Their wines are already favourites among sommeliers, collectors, and Michelin-starred restaurants — but recent appearances in film and television have introduced the label to an even wider audience Chêne Bleu in Succession HBO’s Succession became famous for its obsession with luxury, status, and elite taste. So when Chêne Bleu appeared in Season 1, it immediately caught the attention of wine lovers.  Chêne Bleu’s appearance in Succession even generated discussion among wine enthusiasts online, with viewers taking to Reddit to identify the bottle featured in the series. The series is packed with subtle details designed to reflect wealth, exclusivity, and refined taste — and Chêne Bleu fits naturally into that world. Unlike mass-market prestige brands, Chêne Bleu represents something more understated: a wine known by people who truly understand wine. That alignment with Succession’s world of quiet luxury helped cement the winery’s reputation as a bottle for discerning drinkers rather than trend-followers. Now Featured in The Devil Wears Prada 2 The upcoming The Devil Wears Prada 2 continues the franchise’s association with style, luxury, and sophisticated living. With the sequel already generating major attention across fashion and entertainment media, the appearance of Chêne Bleu once again places the winery in elite company. Much like the original film, The Devil Wears Prada 2 celebrates craftsmanship, exclusivity, and impeccable taste — values that align perfectly with the philosophy behind Chêne Bleu. For wine lovers, it’s another sign that this isn’t just a great wine.It’s a recognised luxury brand with genuine substance behind it. See the feature on Instagram What Makes Chêne Bleu Special? There are plenty of famous wines. Very few live up to the hype. What makes Chêne Bleu stand apart is that the wines genuinely deliver on quality. The estate sits at altitude on limestone-rich soils, allowing grapes to ripen slowly while maintaining freshness and structure. The result is wines with remarkable balance, complexity, and longevity. Depending on the cuvée, expect: dark berry fruit herbs and wild garrigue spice and black pepper mineral freshness silky tannins exceptional depth and elegance These are wines designed not just to impress on first taste, but to evolve beautifully over time Our Recommended Chêne Bleu Wines Chêne Bleu Héloïse The estate’s flagship red blend. Powerful, layered, and deeply complex, Héloïse combines Rhône richness with extraordinary refinement. A serious wine for collectors, special occasions, and memorable dinners. Perfect with: roast lamb venison aged cheeses slow-cooked dishes Chêne Bleu Abélard Structured and elegant, Abélard showcases the more savoury and mineral side of the Rhône. Expect dark fruit, spice, graphite, and incredible ageing potential. Ideal for: steak game rich mushroom dishes cellar ageing Chêne Bleu Le Rosé Fresh, vibrant, and beautifully balanced. This is Provence rosé with real character — refined enough for wine enthusiasts while remaining dangerously drinkable in the sunshine. Perfect for: seafood summer dining aperitifs Mediterranean dishes Why Buy Chêne Bleu from Wine Monkey? At Wine Monkey, we specialise in wines with authenticity, character, and a genuine story behind them. As the official UK retailer for Chêne Bleu, we work directly with the estate to bring these exceptional wines to customers across the UK. When you buy from Wine Monkey, you’re not just buying a bottle. You’re discovering wines crafted with care, sustainability, and extraordinary attention to detail. Discover Chêne Bleu at Wine Monkey Whether you first spotted Chêne Bleu in Succession, heard about its appearance in The Devil Wears Prada 2, or simply want to experience one of the Rhône Valley’s most exciting producers, there’s never been a better time to explore the range. Browse our collection of Chêne Bleu wines and discover why this remarkable estate continues to attract attention from collectors, critics, and now Hollywood itself. Shop Chêne Bleu Wines Explore the full Chêne Bleu collection at Wine Monkey and discover one of the wine world’s true hidden gems. Cheers,The Wine Monkey Team

Finding the perfect wine gift isn’t just about picking a good bottle—it’s about creating an experience. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or sending a thoughtful surprise, the best wine gift shops offer more than just wine—they offer curation, presentation, and personality. If you’re looking for a quick place to start, you can explore our full range of wine gifts here: Browse Wine Monkey Gifting Options What Makes a Great Wine Gift Shop? The best wine gift retailers stand out by offering: – Carefully curated selections (not mass-produced wines)– Gift-ready packaging and presentation– Personalised options (notes, bundles, vouchers)– Reliable delivery (especially next-day options)– A strong story or unique angle (sustainability, small producers) These are the details that turn a simple bottle into a memorable gift. Independent Wine Specialists Independent wine shops focus on small-batch producers, unique regions, and handpicked selections. Compared to supermarkets, they offer more character, better quality, and a more personal touch. At Wine Monkey, we specialise in lesser-known craft wines from producers who prioritise quality, sustainability, and authenticity. Explore our curated wine gifts Sustainable & Craft Wine Shops Sustainability is becoming a major factor in wine gifting. Many customers are now actively looking for: – Organic wines– Biodynamic producers– Low-intervention winemaking Choosing a sustainable wine gift not only tastes better—it tells a story. Wine Monkey focuses on working with ethical producers who care about how their wines are made, not just how they taste. Wine Gift Sets & Hampers Wine gift sets are perfect when you want something ready-made and impressive. Popular options include: – Mixed tasting selections– Food pairings (cheese, chocolate, charcuterie)– Themed collections These are ideal for birthdays, thank you gifts, or corporate occasions. Shop curated gift selections Wine Gift Vouchers If you’re unsure what to choose, wine gift vouchers are one of the most flexible options. They remove the risk of picking the wrong bottle and allow the recipient to choose what they truly enjoy. Wine Monkey Gift Vouchers Wine Monkey gift vouchers can be used across: – Bottle shop purchases– Wine bar experiences– Tastings and events– Artisan food pairings They’re a perfect option for last-minute gifts or when you want to give someone the freedom to explore. Buy a Wine Monkey Gift Voucher Online Wine Delivery When ordering wine as a gift, it’s important to consider: – Secure, protective packaging– Clear delivery timelines– Reliable courier services A great gifting experience doesn’t stop at checkout—it continues all the way to deliver How to Choose the Right Wine Gift Not sure what to pick? Here’s a simple guide: For beginners: curated gift setsFor enthusiasts: independent or small-batch winesFor flexibility: gift vouchersFor impact: premium bottles or standout selectionsOr, if you’d prefer to browse everything in one place: View all Wine Monkey gifting options Final Thoughts The best wine gift shops don’t just sell wine—they create memorable experiences. Independent retailers like Wine Monkey offer something different: thoughtful curation, sustainable sourcing, and wines with real character. Whether you’re buying for a seasoned wine lover or someone just starting their journey, there’s a perfect option waiting. Start exploring wine gifts here Cheers,The Wine Monkey Team

Looking for a relaxed and enjoyable way to explore new wines? At Wine Monkey, our Wine Tasting Wednesdays are the perfect midweek experience—whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just getting started. WHAT ARE WINE TASTING WEDNESDAYS? Every Wednesday, we open a selection of bottles for customers to taste in-store. It’s a casual, welcoming environment where you can try new wines, learn about regions and producers, and get expert recommendations from Bryan and the team. Some weeks follow a theme, while others offer a curated mix of wines—so there’s always something new to discover. TRY BEFORE YOU BUY For just £5 per person, you can taste a range of wines. Even better, this cost is redeemable against any purchases made. This means you can explore new wines risk-free and only take home what you truly enjoy. WHEN & WHERE Every Wednesday4pm – 7pmWine Monkey, ChippenhamWalk-ins welcome Reserve A Table WHY JOIN? – Discover new wines and regions– Learn from experts in a relaxed setting– Find wines you actually love before buying– Enjoy a social midweek experience PERFECT FOR – Catching up with friends– Date nights– Trying something new– Building your wine knowledge Discover Something New Every Week At Wine Monkey, we specialise in lesser-known, sustainable wines from passionate producers. Wine Tasting Wednesdays are the best way to experience what makes our selection unique.FINAL NOTE Wine Tasting Wednesdays are all about making wine approachable, enjoyable, and interactive. Whether you’re exploring new flavours or just enjoying a glass after work, it’s a great way to experience what Wine Monkey has to offer. £5 entry (redeemable on purchases)Every Wednesday | 4–7pm | Walk-ins welcome Cheers,The Wine Monkey Team

Mother’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to pause, raise a glass, and celebrate the remarkable women who shape our lives. Whether you’re planning a relaxed lunch at home, a family gathering, or simply looking for a thoughtful gift, the right bottle of wine can make the occasion even more special. At Wine Monkey, we believe wine is best enjoyed when shared with good company and good conversation. With Mother’s Day arriving on 15 March in the UK, we’ve selected a few wine styles that make particularly lovely choices for celebrating Mum. Elegant Rosé for a Spring Celebration Rosé is often the first wine people reach for as spring approaches. Light, refreshing and beautifully aromatic, it captures the brightness of the season perfectly. A quality rosé offers delicate notes of strawberries, citrus and soft floral aromas. It pairs wonderfully with light dishes such as salads, grilled fish, or a simple charcuterie board. Rosé is also a brilliant option if you’re unsure of Mum’s wine preference – its balanced style makes it one of the most versatile and crowd‑pleasing wines to share at the table. Crisp Whites for a Relaxed Lunch If your Mother’s Day plans include a leisurely lunch, a fresh white wine is a wonderful companion. Look for wines with lively acidity and expressive fruit, such as Sauvignon Blanc or aromatic blends that offer flavours of citrus, green apple and tropical fruit. These wines pair beautifully with dishes like roasted chicken, seafood, or spring vegetable tarts. A chilled white wine served on a sunny afternoon can turn even a simple meal into a memorable occasion. Soft, Fruit-Forward Reds While spring often calls for lighter wines, many mums still enjoy a smooth, approachable red. Look for reds with soft tannins and vibrant fruit character – wines with notes of cherry, plum or gentle spice. These are ideal with dishes like roasted vegetables, mushroom risotto, or lamb. A softer red can also work beautifully with a relaxed evening meal after a day of celebrating.   A Thoughtful Mother’s Day Gift Wine also makes a wonderfully thoughtful gift, especially when paired with something delicious to enjoy alongside it. At Wine Monkey, we’ve put together special Mother’s Day hampers that include a bottle of wine, artisan pâté or terrine, and a few wine‑loving essentials. It’s a simple but elegant way to treat Mum to something she can savour. Whether you’re visiting family or sending a little surprise, a hamper offers a ready‑made celebration in a basket. View Mother’s Day Hampers  Celebrate Mother’s Day with Wine Monkey Mother’s Day is about appreciation, connection, and spending time together. Whether you’re opening a bottle over lunch, sharing a glass in the evening, or giving wine as a gift, the right bottle can help create those small, meaningful moments. If you’re looking for the perfect bottle or a ready‑to‑give hamper, pop into Wine Monkey and we’ll happily help you choose something Mum will love. After all, the best gift is often simply a good bottle and time spent together. Cheers,The Wine Monkey Team

Sustainability is a hot topic right now in the agricultural and viticultural world. Sustainability can come in several forms: environmental, human,

Less than a year and a half since opening, The Cellar by Wine Monkey, Chippenham’s local wine bar known for its exceptional selection of sustainable wines,

Looking for the perfect gift for a wine lover this Christmas? We’ve selected some of our favourites from the shelves at The Cellar. From wintery reds to citrus filled whites,

This month our focus is all about sparkling wines! When it comes to special occasions such as Christmas and New Year, we get inundated with questions