Drax Hall, once a quiet stretch of road between Ocho Rios and Runaway Bay, has become a centre of residential and commercial activity. The area is now home to multiple developments, shopping plazas, and an expanding list of food establishments. Among them is the newest location of Uncorked, which officially opened on Monday, September 8.

Known for its thoughtful approach to wine, cheese, and casual dining, Uncorked has brought its established model to the north coast. This new location is the company’s largest to date and joins four others across Kingston and Montego Bay.

“We selected Drax Hall because of its location and accessibility,” said Anna Kay von Dueszeln, managing director of Uncorked. “It is positioned between Kingston and Montego Bay, with strong infrastructure, and new developments surround it. It made sense.”

Uncorked Ochi offers a menu of fresh salads, sandwiches, and small plates, supported by a curated wine list and a signature selection of artisanal cheeses. The atmosphere is clean and relaxed, with an emphasis on consistency in both product and service.

At the core of the concept is the cheese programme, which continues to distinguish Uncorked from other food retailers. Cheeses are imported from small producers, cut to order from full wheels, and paired with accompaniments that are selected to complement both texture and flavour.

“Many of our cheeses come from small farmstead operations. We are still one of the few places in Jamaica offering this type of selection,” said von Dueszeln. “Our team is trained to present and portion cheeses to the customer’s preference.”

Uncorked also maintains a commitment to sourcing locally where possible. “In each community, we look for producers and suppliers who can meet our standards. This includes desserts, produce, eggs, and other ingredients.”

The opening in Drax Hall marks a steady continuation of the brand’s growth. Originally launched in Kingston, Uncorked has expanded gradually, maintaining a consistent identity at each stage. While each store is tailored to its setting, the focus on product quality, service, and customer experience remains unchanged.

“Growth for us has always come from listening to our customers and adapting thoughtfully. We take the time to build relationships with our guests and within the community,” von Dueszeln said. “Good food and good wine can bring people through the door, but service is what brings them back.”

The official opening on September 8 was attended by business leaders, members of the hospitality sector, and government officials. Matthew Samuda, newly re-elected Member of Parliament for St Ann North Eastern, offered remarks.

“This is the manifestation of many, many dreams, many investments, and we are happy to see Select Brands and Uncorked and its external stakeholders and shareholders come to Ocho Rios,” he said. “There are 10,000 homes to be built here in less than seven years. This is the corridor of the greatest investment that you will see in Jamaica.”

Mayor Michael Belnavis encouraged continued commercial investment. “Make your investments right here and now before we put on any more fees,” he said.

Dr Carey Wallace, executive director of the Tourism Enhancement Fund, described the opening as a positive step for the visitor experience.

“The more we have these types of establishments dotted across Jamaica, the more we make our destination appeal to more visitors,” he said. “Yes, we have sun, sea, and sand, and our music and our culture, but also the experience of having some of the great wines, a great setting.”

As Uncorked approaches its fifteenth anniversary, von Dueszeln says the focus remains on building stability and maintaining standards.

“We are proud of what we have built, but we are always refining and improving,” she said. “Each location is different, but our purpose is the same. We want to offer a consistent product and a reliable experience to the people we serve.”

Photos: Keon Predi Photography

The private dining area of Uncorked Ochi is perfect for private parties and intimate gatherings.

Uncorked Ochi.

Chicken Poppers with Uncorked’s signature Sweet Heat saucedonna-parker keon predi phohogra

Uncorked Ltd Managing DirectorAnna Kay Von Dueszeln addressing guests. .

An exterior shot of Uncorked Ochi with the management team celebrating the opening. From left: Iyola Douglas, operations manager; Kimani Morgan, head chef; Anna Kay Von Dueszeln, managing director; Kathy-Ann Evelyn, food and beverage manager; Marlyn Moore, administrative manager; Sabrina Russell, Uncorked villa services manager; Tamara Cox, branch manager; Robyn-Kay Campbell, marketing manager; Dilton Bartley, manager, Uncorked West.donna-parker keon predi phohogra

Wine enthusiast and president of the St Ann Chamber of Commerce Dr Ransford Davidson examines a bottle of 2019 Dominio Fournier at Uncorked Ochi.donna-parker keon predi phohogra

Bacon-wrapped dates were served at the opening of Uncorked Ochi, a taste of what the bistro offers. donna-parker keon predi phohogra

A charcuterie board of artisanal smoked meats and cheeses.

Sriracha Cauliflower Poppersdonna-parker keon predi phohogra

Salmon Croquettesdonna-parker keon predi phohogra

Buzz’d Bean Espresso Martini made with Stoli vodka..

Storm Warning made with El Dorado eight -year-old rum and Fever Tree Ginger Beer..

Un-Tai’d Mai Tai made with El Dorado eight-year-old rum..

An interior shot of Uncorked Ochi showcasing the vast array of wines and spirits in the bistro.donna-parker keon predi phohogra

Steak Frite Skewersdonna-parker keon predi phohogra