Dida’s Wine Lounge and our new summer menu

Glengarry Wines history leads back to their original site at 54 Jervois Road, Herne Bay.

It was in 1948 that the Government created wine-resellers licenses in an effort to assist local winemakers.

Josef Jakicevich was quick to see the potential, and applied and was granted one of the first two licenses issued in Auckland for the greengrocer that he had opened the previous year at the corner of Jervois Road and Blake Street. The licence however was very restrictive. Retailers were only permitted to sell New Zealand wine; they had to stock twelve wines besides their own, and were not permitted to sell less than two gallons to a customer - the equivalent of twelve 750 ml bottles. During this period the New Zealand wine industry was dominated by sherry, port, and any number of other fancifully named concoctions.

So much has changed. Now the original site on Jervois Road is home to three thriving businesses - Glengarry Wines, Glengarry Spirits and Dida’s Wine Lounge.

Dida’s Wine Lounge opened in 2005 and over the years has seen much change, with this year continuing that theme. Post lockdowns, the team have been busy preparing new menus including the current summer one. The style has not changed; it’s all about small plates of food that match well with the vast array of wines we offer. A complete refresh sees some of the most innovative dishes we’ve seen to date. Alongside this, the wine list has also had a makeover but is extensive as ever, with an excellent range by the glass. Speaking of glassware, all wines at Dida’s are served in the excellent German crystal glasses – Eisch. One visit and you’ll quickly notice how nice it is to drink from top quality glasses when out.

The historic nature of this site has a strong link to Glengarry’s heritage. At the helm today you’ll find Angie Jakicevich, and alongside her the very talented Carmen out the front, and Michael heading up the kitchen. Pop in and explore the new menu with a glass of exceptional quality wine. Angie would love to show you through the site and share stories about the family photos - enough to bring you back time and time again. Trust me, they are brilliant.

Through December we’d love to see you in the Wine Lounge and take bookings for functions and events. Touch base and we can talk you through our wonderful offering.

DIDA’S, 60 Jervois Road, T: 09 376 2813, www.didaswinelounge.co.nz