When Hannah Wagner opened Dark Red in 2022, it was a tiny wine bar dedicated to Italian wines. Over time, it developed a loyal following, eventually expanding into the former nail salon next door.

“We were getting busier and busier,” Wagner tells Broadsheet. “Next door was meant to be used for functions, but by the time we got it open we were running out of tables. It’s fantastic having that extra space.”

Now Wagner is preparing to expand again, this time opening a new 30-seat bar in Winn Lane called Dark Blue. It’ll open in April and, instead of Italian wines, will focus on Portuguese, Spanish, Argentinian and Chilean varieties.

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“Italian wine is a lot broader, but I’ve found some really good Spanish and Portuguese wines,” says Wagner, highlighting touriga nacional and albarino as varieties that will feature on the list.

With more space for cocktail preparation, there will be a stronger emphasis on mixed drinks. Wagner has tapped Charlie Hunter (ex-Savile Row) to write the cocktail list and lead the bar. While the menu is still in development, you will see a range of gin tonicas, a Spanish style of serving gin and tonics where the drinks are served in balloon-shaped glasses to increase aromatics.

Formerly home to Winnston Hair, the space sits beneath Crowbar, which took over The Zoo last year. Given its heritage-listed status, Wagner is keeping the fit-out simple, incorporating a dark, moody aesthetic that highlights the exposed brick walls. With no kitchen, the food offering will primarily feature fancy chips and tinned goods.

Wagner is excited to host events in the new venue, including wine tastings, art exhibitions and music performances. “I have a lot of talented friends and regulars and I’d love to [showcase] their work during the day as well.”

Dark Blue will open at 5a Winn Lane, Fortitude Valley in April.