Damn Yankee, a new wine bar and shop curated by Jen Avina, has opened in the heart of London, offering a range of wines with a focus on minority and female producers, alongside a commitment to community engagement.
Drury Lane Welcomes New Wine Bar “Damn Yankee”
LONDON – The historic and bustling Drury Lane has a new addition: Damn Yankee, a wine bar and shop curated by Jen Avina, opened its doors on May 19. Situated in the heart of London, this establishment is poised to offer a unique blend of retail and wine bar experience, largely influenced by Avina’s extensive background in wine and hospitality.
Jen Avina hails from Los Angeles, where she spent a decade honing her skills in the wine industry. Five years ago, she relocated to London with her husband, harbouring the ambition of opening her own business. Prior to realising this dream, Avina garnered valuable experience working with esteemed wine retailers such as Bottle Apostle, Philglas & Swiggot, and Drop. In March, she acquired her current premises, previously operated as a branch of Drop, and quickly embarked on transforming it into Damn Yankee.
“When I left LA, that was the goal,” Avina remarked. “I knew I wanted a retail and wine bar space. I had the experience and I was ready to do it. It was just about timing and finding the right location, but finally, the stars aligned and I was able to take the space over from the Drop guys. It was a quick turnaround, and I officially opened on May 19.”
To ensure her new establishment made a lasting impression, Avina enlisted the talent of street artist Lula Goce. Known for her striking murals worldwide, including placements in New York, Miami, California, Berlin, and across Spain, this project marks Goce’s inaugural piece in London.
“Lula is a really impressive artist,” Avina shared. “Her work is all over the world, but this is her first piece in London. We were pretty chuffed to get her. The feedback has been very positive: we’ve had so many compliments from the locals about how we have done something for the street and elevated the neighbourhood. It’s been quite humbling to be so well received.”
Damn Yankee’s wine selection will spotlight offerings from minority and female producers wherever possible, featuring an array of wines sourced globally, although with a discernible American bias. Avina herself is eager to explore the prospects of direct importing in the future.
“We’re hoping by next year to be able to start doing some direct importing ourselves and I’m excited by that possibility,” she said. “I grew up in Los Angeles and I spent a lot of time in Santa Barbara and that’s where I fell in love with wine. To be able to bring some of my home here would be very special to me.”
Avina appreciates the adventurous palate of UK wine consumers, especially among younger demographics. “The UK is such a great consumer of wine, especially the younger audience who are so much more open to what is out there. People want to try stuff from all over the world and they’re very adventurous. It’s almost like travelling around the world; you can drink the wine and pair it with the right food to have that experience. I find that all very romantic.”
Beyond its aesthetic appeal and wine offerings, Damn Yankee is integrating itself into the community by supporting local charities.
“It’s really important for us to create a space that is very inclusive to everyone,” Avina explained. “Even though we’re quite new, we did a Pride event with Mosaic Trust and over Christmas we’ll be donating care packages to [homelessness charity] St Mungo’s, which is just around the corner from us. We want to make sure that we’re giving back and being a positive part of the community.”
Damn Yankee is set to become a cherished part of Drury Lane, offering a unique blend of fine wine, artistic ambience, and community spirit. With its doors now open, the wine bar promises to provide a fresh and inviting locale for both wine aficionados and casual enthusiasts alike.
Source: Noah Wire Services