Cork of the North

If you’re visiting from elsewhere in the country, or live in central Manchester, it’s easy to forget how much life there is beyond the heart of our city. Sale is a prime example, with a 2010s overhaul cementing this Trafford town as a go-to for great food and drink thanks to destinations such as Stanley Square, now home to some of our favourite restaurants on the south side of town. And a few moments away, you’ll find one of our favourite wine bars and shops: the wonderfully-named Cork of the North. 

Award-winning, beloved, reassuringly expensive when you want it, affordable when you need it, Cork of the North is an independent, family-run merchant stocking more than 750 varieties of the good stuff from across the globe. Catering to walk-ins, bookings, retail and home delivery alike, when you step inside from Northenden Road you’ll immediately pick up on the unpretentious friendliness of the knowledgeable staff. Take a seat by the bar, in one of the charming fold-down cinema-style seats, in a booth or at a table, and steel yourself for some tough decisions. Like we said, the choice here is extensive.

A solid wall of wine awaits for those who want it by the bottle, flights are available — naturally — alongside more than 100 wines poured out by the glass. You’ll also find high-end bottled and canned beers, and some specialist spirits, if you’re in the market. Light bites and snacks are entirely geared towards vino, and there are also regular tastings taking place which have caught the eye of fawning critics. Even picking up a few awards for quality, value and scope. Finally, it’s worth noting the team operate a second site over in upmarket Heaton Moor, if you find yourself in that corner of town. But that’s another story altogether.