Winchester Gelato Lovers Are Swooning For Swoon Gelatos

Swoon, the Bristol-founded artisan gelato brand built on over a century of Italian-heritage craft, opened its newest bar at 79a Parchment Street, Winchester, on Friday, 20th March 2026. 

The opening marks the latest step in the brand's expansion beyond its South West heartland and into high-footfall, quality-conscious city-centre locations.

Founded in 2016 by Bruno Forte, whose family introduced handmade gelato to Great Britain over 120 years ago, Swoon is a true family affair. 

Bruno's wife Ana Maria leads the brand's marketing and social strategy, while co-founder Pat Powell, the creative force behind Swoon's instantly recognisable chic black-and-white aesthetic, oversees every visual element, from packaging to shop design. 

The brand now operates gelato bars in Bristol, Bath, Oxford and has a permanent concession within Selfridges Foodhall on London's Oxford Street. 

Winchester becomes the sixth location, and the brand has publicly signalled plans for further openings across the south of England.

Swoon is a premium brand with a proven track record, having accumulated over 100 Great Taste stars, more than any other dessert producer in the UK. 

It was crowned Supreme Champion at the Great Taste Awards 2019 for its Hazelnut Gelato, the first gelato producer ever to achieve that distinction. 

Its Bacio Hazelnut & Chocolate gelato was named Vegan Product of the Year at the Great British Food Awards in 2022, reflecting the brand's responsiveness to evolving consumer preferences. 

That commitment to quality runs through every ingredient; for example, Swoon sources its milk from Somerset farms and its pistachios from the renowned growing region of Bronte in Sicily.

Each bar serves handmade scooped gelato alongside a speciality dessert menu that includes gelato cakes, 'Swoondaes', ricotta-filled cannoli, Sicilian brioche, milkshakes, fruit smoothies, and Italian coffee sourced from Naples. 

A minimum of four vegan flavours are available at all times. All gelato recipes are developed by Bologna-based gelato expert Stefano Tarquinio, head of the Gelato University, who holds exclusive rights to supply his recipes in Great Britain through Swoon. 

The Winchester bar will also be available on Deliveroo.

Beyond its branded bars, Swoon has a growing retail and wholesale footprint. Its 500ml tubs are stocked in farm shops across the south west of England, and the brand has established partnerships with hospitality operators including Bosco Pizzerias. 

A wholesale offer is also available to trade partners looking to bring Swoon's award-winning gelato to their own customers. 

Production is centralised from the brand's purpose-built kitchen facility in Bristol, providing the scalable infrastructure to support continued growth. 

Swoon also operates a customer loyalty scheme across its bars, reflecting the brand's focus on building lasting relationships with the communities it serves.

Bruno Forte told That's Food and Drink: “My Italian family introduced handmade gelato to the UK over a hundred years ago, and Swoon is very much a family business with my wife, mother and sister all involved. 

"That family history and love of gelato drives everything we do, it's why we focus so much on provenance and using only the best and purest ingredients in the flavours we craft.

“Winchester is a city we've had our eye on for a long time. It's a beautiful, historic place with a real appreciation for quality and craftsmanship, the values that sit at the heart of what we do at Swoon.”

To learn more about Swoon visit https://www.swoononaspoon.co.uk.

If you wish to discuss stocking their products visit https://www.swoononaspoon.co.uk/wholesale

Discover the Winchester Food Festival: A Culinary Extravaganza

As the summer sun graces the historic city of Winchester, food enthusiasts and culinary connoisseurs alike will gather for a gastronomic celebration like no other.

Mark your calendars for Sunday, 14th July, as the Winchester Food Festival promises a day filled with delectable delights, local produce, and culinary creativity.

A Feast for the Senses

Nestled in the heart of Hampshire, Winchester's scenic beauty and rich history provide the perfect backdrop for this annual event. The festival is a testament to the region's vibrant food culture, bringing together an eclectic mix of food stalls, live demonstrations, and interactive workshops. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a fun day out, there's something for everyone to savour.

Local Produce and Artisanal Delicacies

One of the highlights of the Winchester Food Festival is the emphasis on local produce. From farm-fresh vegetables to artisanal cheeses, the festival celebrates the best of Hampshire's bounty. Wander through the market stalls and discover a variety of locally sourced ingredients that reflect the region's agricultural heritage. Chat with the farmers, sample their goods, and take home a taste of Winchester's finest produce.

Culinary Demonstrations and Masterclasses

For those eager to hone their culinary skills, the festival offers an array of live cooking demonstrations and masterclasses led by renowned chefs. Watch as culinary maestros transform simple ingredients into gourmet dishes right before your eyes. Gain insights into their techniques, learn new recipes, and perhaps even get a chance to taste their creations. These sessions are not only educational but also incredibly inspiring for aspiring cooks and food lovers.

A Taste of Global Cuisine

While the festival celebrates local flavours, it also embraces the diversity of global cuisine. Explore the international food stalls and embark on a culinary journey around the world. From sizzling street food to exotic spices, the festival brings a world of flavours to Winchester. Indulge in a variety of dishes, each prepared with passion and authenticity, and experience the global melting pot of culinary traditions.

Family-Friendly Fun

The Winchester Food Festival is a family-friendly event, with activities designed to entertain visitors of all ages. Children's cooking workshops, face painting, and interactive games ensure that the little ones have just as much fun as the adults. The lively atmosphere, coupled with the vibrant array of food and entertainment, makes it a perfect day out for families.

Practical Information

The Winchester Food Festival will take place on Sunday, 14th July, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The event will be held at the beautiful Outer Close of Winchester Cathedral offering plenty of space for visitors to explore, eat, and relax. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the entrance on the day of the event.

Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, the Winchester Food Festival is an unmissable event that celebrates the joys of food and community. So come along, bring your appetite, and immerse yourself in a culinary extravaganza that showcases the very best of Winchester and beyond.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official Winchester Food Festival website. We look forward to seeing you there for a day of delicious discoveries! 

For up-to-date information on this scrumptious July week visit www.winchesterfoodfestival.co.uk or follow on Instagram and Facebook via @winchesterfoodfestival.

It's Back! Winchester Food Festival Returns!

Hampshire Fare, the county-wide food, drink and craft group, is thrilled to announce the return of the Winchester Food Festival after a successful inaugural event last year, which That's Food and Drink were pleased to be able to blog about last year.

This culinary extravaganza takes place on Sunday, July 14, in the picturesque Outer Close of Winchester's ancient Cathedral.

Working in close collaboration with Winchester BID and Winchester Cathedral, this year's festival promises to be even bigger and better. It's a free-to-enter event, and is a celebration of the finest local produce from Winchester and its environs.

The 2024 Winchester Food Festival is set to feature an even larger array of stalls, with fun and activities for all ages. There will also be exciting cookery demonstrations by top chefs  

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and ignite your senses? Get ready to mark your calendars because on Sunday, July 14th, the Winchester Food Festival returns with a delectable lineup of gastronomic delights, promising a day filled with gourmet indulgence, culinary discoveries, and unforgettable experiences.

Nestled in the heart of Winchester in the environs of the ancient Cathedral, this annual festival has become a beloved tradition for food enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Drawing inspiration from the rich culinary heritage of the region and beyond, the Winchester Food Festival celebrates the diversity and creativity of the food scene while showcasing the finest local producers, artisans, and chefs.

From artisanal cheeses to freshly baked bread, from succulent meats to decadent desserts, the festival offers a feast for every palate. Whether you're a devoted foodie seeking out the latest culinary trends or simply looking to enjoy a leisurely day of sampling exquisite flavors, there's something for everyone to savor at this gastronomic extravaganza.

One of the highlights of the Winchester Food Festival is the opportunity to meet the passionate individuals behind the products. Engage in conversations with local farmers, brewers, and artisans as they share the stories behind their craft and offer insights into their techniques. Discover the dedication and expertise that goes into creating each artisanal cheese, small-batch beer, or handcrafted chocolate, and gain a newfound appreciation for the artistry of food production.

But the festival isn't just about tasting delicious food—it's also about learning and exploration. Attendees can participate in interactive cooking demonstrations led by renowned chefs, where they'll pick up invaluable tips and techniques to elevate their culinary skills. From mastering the perfect risotto to perfecting the art of cocktail crafting, there's always something new to discover in the world of food and drink.

And let's not forget about the vibrant atmosphere that permeates the festival. With bustling market stalls, and a lively ambiance, the Winchester Food Festival is a celebration of community and conviviality. Gather with friends and family, soak up the sunshine, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of this culinary extravaganza.

As you wander through the festival, don't forget to support the local vendors and producers who pour their hearts and souls into their products. Whether you're purchasing a wedge of artisanal cheese, a jar of homemade preserves, or a bottle of craft beer, every purchase directly supports the hardworking individuals who make the festival possible.

New this year, before Winchester Food Festival starts will be a week-long programme of events from Monday 8 to Saturday 13 July under the aegis 'A Taste of Winchester'. Hampshire Fare will work with Winchester's City Council to engage with local food and drink producers, makers and hospitality businesses within Winchester, inviting and them to be involved in the build-up to the festival by staging their own activities, from tastings and  masterclasses to special offers and special menus. 

Councillor Lucille Thompson, Portfolio Holder for Business and Culture at Winchester City Council sais: “This inclusive community event allows residents and visitors to savour the flavours from our  district. A week of culinary events will add another exciting dimension to the festival and will help to support local businesses.

People attending the festival will be able to indulge in a large and diverse selection of local delicacies, such as tasty micro-greens, trout, coffee, orchard juices, cheeses, honey, beers, and gins.

New this year, before Winchester Food Festival starts will be a week-long programme of events from Monday 8 to Saturday 13 July under the aegis 'A Taste of Winchester'. Hampshire Fare will work with Winchester's City Council to engage with local food and drink producers, makers and hospitality businesses within Winchester, inviting and them to be involved in the build-up to the festival by staging their own activities, such as tasting events, masterclasses, special deals and special menus. 

Councillor Lucille Thompson, Portfolio Holder for Business and Culture at Winchester City Council sais: “This inclusive community event allows residents and visitors to savour the flavours from our  district. A week of culinary events will add another exciting dimension to the festival and will help to support local businesses.

Natasha Dochniak, Hampshire Fare's Commercial Manager, said: “Our county has a wide range of wonderful food and drink producers, and we're thrilled to grow our event to celebrate A Taste of Winchester. The Cathedral provides an amazing backdrop. We can't wait to share our plans."

If your business is interested in sponsoring the event, please email (natasha.dochniak@hampshirefare.co.uk).

Don't miss out on this delectable celebration of local food and drink. Mark your calendars for July 8– 14!

Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply someone who loves good food and good company, this is an event not to be missed. Come join us as we celebrate the art of food and drink and indulge in the flavors of the season. See you there!

Mavrik Secures Award-winning Status for Core Range of Alcohol-free Cocktails

Hampshire's top premium alcohol-free cocktail brand, Mavrik, is celebrating a run of success following entries to a number of prestigious food & drink awards this year. 

The brand's core range of four natural, low calorie virgin cocktails presented in a funky ready-to-drink (RTD) can format, now boasts no less than four awards, with each variant now benefiting from an acknowledged industry accolade:

Mavrik's Aromatic G&T won a Bronze in this year's Scottish Retail Food & Drink Awards

Mavrik's Cuban Mojito was awarded a Silver in the 2023 Free From Food Awards

Mavrik's Venetian Spritz and Storm & Spice were both winners in this year's Great Taste Awards, each achieving the much sought after 1* ranking

Commenting on the brand's achievements, Director Andrew Mallinson says, “With the no and low category now universally recognised as an important growth category – according to ISWR 2023, half of the UK adult population bought a no or low alcohol drink last year and 5.2m fewer UK adults are drinking alcohol weekly in 2023 vs 2021.

"The awards represent a highly credible, reliable recommendation to consumers who are now faced with such a plethora of no and low alcohol options. 

The accolades, alongside the brand's impressive taste experience, low calorie and all-natural credentials and shelf-shout, underpin the relevance of listing Mavrik to key trade stockists.”

Mavrik produces a full range of canned cocktails in six delicious flavours: Cuban Mojito, Aromatic G&T, Storm & Spice, Venetian Spritz, Passion Star Martini and Espresso Martini. 

For more information visit https://www.mavrik-drinks.com

Introducing the First Winchester Food Festival

For many people of a certain age mention of Winchester Cathedral evokes memories of the hit 1960s song "Winchester Cathedral, written by Geoff Stephens and performed by his The New Vaudeville Band.

However, Winchester has a greater interest to readers of That's Food and drink, as the Cathedral City long been known as a great place for foodies.

And this summer the city will have its first dedicated free festival showcasing its fabulous local producers and talented chefs. 

And That's Food and Drink is pleased to hear this news and pleased to be able to share it with our readers.

It's schedules to happen on Sunday, 9th July, and the new Winchester Food Festival is being organised by Hampshire Fare and will showcase delicious produce from the Winchester District and the wider Hampshire area.

Winchester Food Festival will be held in the Cathedral's Outer Close, and will open from 10.00am with a Chefs' Kitchen running from 12 noon. 

Top chefs from favourite restaurants will be sharing tips and creating tasty recipes using local produce provided by Festival sponsor Quob Park Free Range & Organic.

The line-up will include Damian Brown from Chesil Rectory, Miff Kayum from Kyoto Kitchen, and Lenny Carr-Roberts, of The Bugle, Twyford, The Fox, Crawley, and Shoal, Winchester, who started his career at Le Gavroche, but is probably best known for his television appearances alongside TV Chef James Martin.

Tracy Nash, of Hampshire Fare, said: “Winchester Cathedral provides the perfect backdrop to this new FREE festival. We have been wanting to hold a truly local summertime food festival in Winchester for a long time. 

"And we're We are really pleased and delighted that so many businesses from across the Winchester District have stepped forward to help us hold what will be a key event in the Hampshire Food Festival calendar, and a new event for Winchester, going forwards.”

Available produce will range from superfood micro-greens to locally caught trout, coffee, orchard juices and no-alcohol cocktails to gins infused with local botanicals, plus fudge, fizz, fresh veg, breads, honey and cheeses. 

There will be BBQ cooking with SOCAL, plus there will be a big focus on community and green issues with Winchester Beacon, the local homeless charity and the Festival's charity partner, collaborating with the social enterprise, Munch, to shine a spotlight on creating delicious budget-friendly dishes. Registered nutritionist Mary Needham will be sharing tips on getting the most from ingredients, how to reduce food bills without compromising on flavour and simple ways to make healthy dishes.

Dr Paul Spencer, Winchester Business Improvement District (BID), said: “Winchester BID is really delighted to be supporting the Winchester Food Festival as part of the Hampshire Food Festival. Winchester is a fantastic place for foodies and this new event will celebrate local producers and businesses in the beautiful setting of Winchester Cathedral. Come along! Visitors can also visit the Hampshire Farmer's Market and explore the city centre. It will be a fantastic day to be in Winchester!”

John Blake, of Winchester Cathedral added: “We are thrilled to host the inaugural Winchester Food Festival in the Cathedral's historic grounds and are excited to partner with Hampshire Fare for what, we sincerely hope, will become an annual event in the city's festival calendar.”

The event is free for the public to attend and has been made possible thanks to much-valued support from local businesses, including Quob Park Free Range & Organic; NFU Mutual Winchester & Wickham; The Winchester Bakery and Shorewood Homes.

For more information about Winchester Food Festival follow @winchesterfoodfestival on social media or visit www.winchesterfoodfestival.co.uk.