Moreno returns to roots with Flora Fine Wines

By Andrew Catchpole

Published: 10 April, 2019

Wine trade veteran Abbi Moreno is opening a new venture, Flora Fine Wines, on 11 April bringing a mix of organic, biodynamic and natural wines to northwest London.

Sited in the original Moreno Wines building, where three generations of Moreno’s built up the Spanish-specialist importer before selling it to current owner Boutinot in 2016, Flora will deliver a hybrid mix of sales, Spanish-inspired tapas and specialities, plus on-premise wines, with many served by the glass at tables both inside and on the pavement.

Moreno told Harpers that her idea is to create a “community feel”, with people “welcome to bring their laptops, friends or children”, and a roster of tasting and other events planned at this Maida Vale oasis.

In addition, Flora will be offering wholesale on a small scale to local restaurants and businesses, and with a large basement space there are plans to open the downstairs to private parties.

“We will have 90 lines, with wines from around the world, wines that are organic, biodynamic and natural, and from small family producers – although some will not be certified,” Moreno told Harpers.

Flora will also import wines direct, with several of those sourced from Spain, which Moreno describes as being “my passion, in my blood”.

“It’s all about being local,” said Moreno. “We are European and I want to keep some of that European community feel in the UK.”

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