There is no definition of a great wine bar. Often, people point to good lighting, comfortable seating, or a long wine list as the essentials. Those things matter. But they are not the whole picture.
This guide breaks down six qualities of a great wine bar, so you know what to look for the next time you visit one.
Six Signs of a Great Wine Bar
1] Good Wine Selection
A great wine bar offers a good selection of grape varieties, regions, and price points.
There should be something familiar and something new to try.
Some wine bars also rotate parts of their list. This gives you the chance to try something different on each visit.
A good wine list is also an opportunity to explore. Choose styles from crisp whites and sparkling wines to more robust reds and orange wines. You may also find wines from smaller producers or local winemakers that are not easily available elsewhere.
2] Proper Wine Glassware
A great wine bar uses good-quality glasses that suit the wines being served.
Here is what to look for:
- A wine glass usually curves inwards at the top. This helps hold the aromas in the glass, so you can smell them as you drink. This is how you pick up notes of fruit, earth, and spice.
- The bowl should leave enough room to swirl the wine. The swirling motion mixes the wine with air. It helps to release its aromas.
- A thin rim allows the wine to flow smoothly into your mouth. It makes it more comfortable to drink from the glass.
- Holding the glass by the stem keeps your hand away from the bowl. This helps prevent your hand from warming the wine.
3] Wine Served at the Right Temperature
The temperature of your wine matters. If a red wine is too warm, it may taste harsh. Serve a white too cold, and you may not get as much of its flavour and aroma.
As a general guide, red wines can be served at around 15–18°C (60–65°F), while whites are usually cooler at around 8–12°C (45–55°F). The exact temperature depends on the wine.
A good wine bar takes this into account when serving your glass.
4] Knowledgeable Wine Bar Staff
Expert wine bar staff can help you choose a wine based on what you like, your budget or what you are eating.
For example, you might say, “I want something fruity but not sweet.” A knowledgeable server should be able to suggest a few wines that match what you have in mind.
A trained server can introduce you to a lesser-known grape or producer that you might otherwise overlook.
A knowledgeable server can tell you where the wine comes from, how it was made, or what makes that particular bottle interesting.
Wine can sometimes have ‘cork taint’, a fault that can make it smell like wet cardboard. Experienced staff can recognise a faulty bottle and replace it.
5] Right Food and Wine Pairing
A great wine bar chooses food that works well with its wines. The right match can bring out flavours both in the food and in the wine.
Here is what to look for:
- The food menu includes snacks, small plates, cheese or charcuterie that work well with the wines.
- Staff can suggest a wine based on your order. They might, for example, suggest a bright, high-acid white with creamy pasta. The acidity helps balance the richness of the dish.
6] A Welcoming Wine Bar Atmosphere
A good wine bar makes you want to stay for another glass. Seating should be comfortable; lighting should be right. Music should not get in the way of conversation.
Even if you do not know much about wine, you should still be able to ask about the wine list without feeling self-conscious.
Discover Belle Wine Bar in Ubud
Belle Wine Bar is a Wine Bar in Ubud offering an extensive selection of wines by the glass as well as over 25 local and international wines. The wine list includes wines from France, Italy, Australia, Argentina, the USA, Indonesia, Chile, New Zealand and Spain.
Pair your wine with local artisan cheese, charcuterie, or crudités made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. If you are not sure what to pick, the staff can help you select a wine based on your preferences.
Check out the wine list at Belle Wine Bar and find your next favourite.