An urban winery is opening in the heart of Freo, taking over the former Mother site

WA’s first urban winery is set to open in Fremantle by the end of the year, with wine production scheduled to begin in 2024.

H&C Urban Winery is the brainchild of local hospitality operators Phil Thompson and Ross Macpherson (The Local Hotel, South Fremantle, and formerly The River and Margaret River Resort), alongside ex-AFL players and wine entrepreneurs Will Schofield, Chris Masten and Scott Spalding.

Schofield and Masten co-founded online wine platform Heroes and Comrades before joining forces with Spalding’s Off The Vine wine distribution. In 2022, Masten also launched Beyond Distilling with former teammate, Josh Kennedy.

The new winery is set to open by the end of the year in the space formerly home to plant-based restaurant Mother, and will include a full bar, restaurant, barrel room and a cellar door alongside their wine production facilities.

The renovations will reconfigure the space allowing for additional seating and facilities, and incorporate the former Good Sammy op shop next door. YogaLab studio will remain in the tenancy upstairs.

“We are really excited to introduce WA’s first Urban Winery right here in Fremantle,” explained Managing Director Phil Thompson.

“We plan to showcase the amazing produce of WA with grapes sourced from our wonderfully varied regions, utilising the skills of the best and most interesting local winemakers. As a passionate Freo local it is a great privilege to work alongside some great industry partners to bring this concept to life in a place we all love.”

“We want people to have fun with it, learn a little if they choose, but ultimately it’s about celebrating wine and enjoying it with friends and family in a great setting.”

Image credits: Mother (via Facebook)