Vagabond Wines Canary Wharf review: There’s a world of wines to explore at this stylish waterside bar

Some wines travel thousands of miles to reach London. At Vagabond’s new Canary Wharf bar, one of the shortest journeys is around 1,300 metres.

The new Vagabond Wines has opened on Park Drive in Wood Wharf, bringing more than 120 wines by the glass to one of London’s most recognisable business districts. There’s a heated terrace, a menu of modern European sharing plates and, of course, Vagabond’s distinctive self-pour system.

The concept is simple. You’re given a card and can explore the wine list at your own pace, choosing a tasting measure, half glass or full pour from the self-service machines. 

The selection ranges from exotic reds and refreshing whites to sparkling, rosé, orange, organic and low-intervention wines. A small pour allows you to experiment without making a commitment. If something catches your attention, you can simply go back for more.

The Canary Wharf opening adds another appealing detail. Some of the wines have been made barely a mile away at Vagabond’s Urban Winery in Canada Water, described by the company as the UK’s largest urban winery.

The winery works with grapes sourced from vineyards across England and Europe, bringing them to London for production and bottling. The result is an intriguing local element within an otherwise international wine list.

Some of the wines have been made barely a mile away at Vagabond’s Urban Winery in Canada Water…

Inside Vagabond’s new waterside wine bar

The Luxe Review attended the VIP opening and we spent a considerable amount of time doing what Vagabond encourages its guests to do: exploring.

One of the wines that immediately demanded our attention was the 2021 Viña Sena Rocas de Sena from Chile. Made from Malbec, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Mourvèdre, it is a substantial, beautifully smooth red with ripe, generous fruit.

It’s also the first release of this new wine from Errazuriz’s flagship Viña Sena property. Highly recommended.

The Exopto La Mimbrera Coupage Tradicional from Rioja is another highlight. Aged for 14 months in French oak before spending a further six months in terracotta amphora, it has a dark, fruity character with an elegant thread of spice. Fill your glass.

For something rather different, the Jolie-Laide Trousseau Gris Orange is well worth seeking out. Fermented on its skins, the result is savoury and aromatic. Possibly divisive, but a definite talking point.

When the evening is winding down, the Tenute Orestiadi Pacenzia Vendemmia Tardiva is the bottle to reach for. This sweet Sicilian fortified wine makes a fitting final glass.

Food is supplied by Executive Chef Marco Pastoris, whose modern European menu is designed around sharing and pairing.

Burrata di Puglia PDO, pil pil prawns, Iberico croquetas, pork belly and padrón peppers are perfect fro grazing, while hanger steak tagliata, charcuterie and cheese boards are available if you’re after something more substantial.

The venue itself stretches across two floors and has more than 130 covers. The interiors are modern and relaxed, with can accommodate anything from a quick glass at the bar to larger gatherings. Outside, the heated terrace looks across the waters of Wood Wharf.

Founded in Fulham in 2010, Vagabond now operates 14 bars across London and Birmingham. It was acquired by Majestic Wine in 2024, while its teams receive training through the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. So there’s substance behind the style

Vagabond Canary Wharf is now open at 12 Park Drive, Canary Wharf Estate, London E14 9ZW.