Dempsey's Best-kept Secret?

We chat to father-of-three and well-known wine merchant JOE KEATS from Petersons Wines Singapore about his new gem of a wine bar that opened in early 2023.

- JESS SMIT

One of the newest hotspots on the Dempsey block, Deviate is a laid-back wine bar in the leafy locale that’s becoming a go-to for date nights, pre-dinner drinks and private functions. Sit on the shady verandah or lounge on the Chesterfield indoors with a glass of wine in hand (there are a dozen labels available by the glass to choose from and over 300 listed by the bottle). Alongside the outstanding wine list, you can order beers, ciders, whisky and gin from all over the world. With a sprawling lawn out front, it’s great for families – and it’s pet-friendly, too!

Where are you from originally, and do you miss anything about it?

New Zealand. I miss the cool, crisp fresh air and the mountains.

How did you get started in the industry?

I was managing bars and restaurants in New Zealand before I was even old enough to (legally) drink. During my business degree, I worked in some amazing venues to pay the bills while I studied. After graduating, I figured out that an office wasn’t my preferred environment, so I stuck to what I’m good at!

I’ve now been working in the hospitality industry for nearly 30 years – with stints in Greece, Australia, Russia, Belgium, Canada and Scotland – and with Petersons Wines for 14 years in various capacities. I’ve been full-time with Petersons Wines since moving to Singapore five years ago.

Tell us a bit about this Dempsey Hill wine bar.