In this video, I sit down with Nick to dive into the incredible history of Corbières Wine Cavern, one of Manchester’s most iconic 1980s bars. Known for its legendary jukebox and eclectic clientele, Corbières played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s alternative and music scenes.
Nick shares his journey from starting as a pot collector at 17 to witnessing the bar’s golden years under manager Dave Redrobe, who transformed it into a live music hub. Bands like The Waltones, Kalima, and Biting Tongues graced its stage, featuring musicians who later joined legendary acts like The Charlatans, Simply Red, and 808 State. Even the Happy Mondays played at Corbières, celebrating their signing with Factory Records despite manager Dave’s frustration with their joint-rolling antics.
The bar was also a haven for subcultures, from Goths to Rockabillys, and hosted actors from the nearby Royal Exchange. Its iconic jukebox, however, stole the spotlight. Staff and patrons curated the collection, adding everything from The Smiths’ latest singles to Beastie Boys’ Fight for Your Right before it even hit the UK charts. Factory Records staff even contributed rare white-label singles to the mix.
Nick reminisces about standout tracks like Sounds Like Something Dirty by A Certain Ratio and shares anecdotes about Cloud 9, Pieros, and the vibrant pre-rave Manchester bar scene. Together, we reflect on how Corbières was a vital yet overlooked part of Manchester’s music story.
Whether you’re a Manchester music enthusiast or discovering the city’s rich history for the first time, this video is packed with untold stories and unforgettable moments from Corbières’ heyday.
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