Coffee Lab closes in Winchester and reopens as academy with expanded range

Coffee Lab in Little Minster Street has been rebranded as academy.

The new branch officially opened on Thursday, July 14.

But coffee lovers fear not, the rebrand was brought in as the owners wanted to expand its offer and showcase different independent coffee producers.

Director Joe Fellows said: "We are excited to be evolving our business to champion coffee brands from across the globe.

"We are creating more choice for the discerning palates of Winchester. academy will be a great place to meet, relax and appreciate coffee from speciality roasters you haven't tried before.

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"Our baristas are looking forward to encouraging customers to try something beyond a regular latte."

Coffee Lab opened six years ago and has become known for its own award-winning coffee, produced at its roastery in Winnall.

Now the business is evolving to celebrate the most exciting coffee producers from around the world.

Each month it will bring in new brands for coffee fans to try out in the café, made by academy’s expert baristas and buy to take home to brew themselves.

The first of the two guest producers will be from Girls That Grind. They are an all-female roastery based in the south west of England sourcing coffees specifically and exclusively from women.

The second is award-winning Assembly from Brixton, London who roast the world’s rarest and highest quality coffees.

There will be two different coffees from both roasters.

The academy team will tell customers more about the roasts and the best ways to enjoy them when they visit.

Alongside great coffee, there will be a selection of milk and dairy free alternatives.

The venue also sells food, such as salads and homemade pastries, cakes and bagels from the Winchester Bakery.

It will be open everyday from 7am (Sundays 8am).

On Wednesday through to Saturday evenings, academy is open late until 8pm.

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