On a Quest for the Perfect Wine Bar

There aren't really any great wine bars in our area. There are restaurants that serve wine, and some of those even have excellent wine menus. The problem is that they are just not casual enough for a quick glass of wine. Then there are the bars that serve wine; but you know how we feel about that. There is, however, a small chocolate and wine shop within walking distance. It's a little further than we'd normally venture out to, but we find ourselves visiting once every few months or so. Not often, and here's why. This wine bar has so much potential, and yet, we always leave disappointed.

On our most recent trip, we discussed why. Apparently, this shop does most of its business in chocolate, pastries, and coffee, and the wine business is supplemental. This is quickly obvious. Although the wine list is pretty impressive, they are often "out of" our selection. On our last visit, we were disappointed that the dessert wine offering was much more limited than the menu's offering, although Nathan had an amazing port. The sherry I ordered had to be located behind many bottles, and I could tell it had been sitting out, opened, for some time. In addition, they have a large white board above the register that lists the red and white special of the day - in generic terms. We guessed that most customers purchasing wine select from this board. Another red flag for us is that the staff is not knowledgable about wines--in any way.

This last trip left us wondering why, in a City where it's nearly impossible to secure a liquor license, this shop didn't put more thought and effort behind its wine business. Perhaps their market just isn't interested in wine: it feels like it could easily be an "after school" stop for teens.

Because Nathan and I always speak to the experience and enjoyment of wine, this last visit struck a chord with us. We don't mention the name of this chocolate & wine shop for obvious reasons. We've gone so many times, but will probably not return anytime soon. Every adventure leads us to new insight; as we practice and grow, we feel more and more confident in our opinions--and in our expectations. We hope you do to. If it's not truly enjoyable, move on.

Nathan and I continue to find the perfect wine bar within walking distance: we have a few contenders, and we'll keep you posted.