This place has casual cozy vibes and can be good for a friend catch-up or a date. I sat at the bar and everyone was really chill. Service was great-- the staff was friendly and knowledgeable. I had the featured wine flight, then split a bottle of champagne with my friend. We also had the happy hour meatballs and pimento cheese dip. Both were really tasty. I look forward to making this place a bigger part of my rotation! read more

Sonoma Cellar - Pimento cheese dip, meatballs (happy hour) and wine flight - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

(2 out of 5 stars) This is a difficult review to write because the Sonoma Cellar used to be one of my favorite spots in Old Town Alexandria. I was aware the ownership had changed some time ago, but this was my first opportunity to return and see how things had kind of evolved. The good news is that they are pet friendly, which allowed us to bring our puppy, Chewie. Unfortunately, the rest of the experience was disappointing. The service was painfully, excruciatingly slow. The staff members were polite though, and genuinely trying to help, but they simply appeared unprepared. When we asked for recommendations or information related to the wines, we received very little guidance. One gentleman eventually admitted that he was just filling in and didn't really know the wines at all. Understandable, but not the experience I was going for. The water bottle for the table served to us was room temperature, which felt odd, especially on a hot day while sitting outdoors. The wine tasting was a major disappointment compared to what Sonoma Cellar used to offer, and the overall wine selection appeared to me at least, noticeably smaller than I remembered. I was also disappointed to discover that Sonoma Cellar has adopted the increasingly common practice of adding a 3% credit card surcharge. I didn't notice any clear disclosure beforehand, and these types of fees always leave a bad impression. I know I'm a bit picky with those, but still. The establishment was likely dealing with staffing issues on the day we visited, but the overall experience felt like a shadow of what this place used to be. What used to be one of my favorite wine stops in Old Town has clearly diminished in both service and selection. We left disappointed and, sadly, don't expect to return. Chewie agreed. read more

Carla and I recently visited Sonoma Cellar and unfortunately, the experience was disappointing overall. We were seated on the patio, but service got off to a rough start. We were completely overlooked and had to go up to the bar ourselves to ask for menus and water. The food itself was decent. The Hot Artichoke Dip was creamy and served with pita. The Pacific Coast Salmon was well-cooked and paired nicely with mushroom risotto and vegetables. The Cinnamon Ice Cream tasted good. Where things really fell apart was the service and timing. We planned to enjoy dessert at the restaurant and also order takeout, but there was confusion and staff assumed the ice cream was to-go. The wait times were excessive: 40 minutes for ice cream 15 additional minutes for salmon takeout Another 10 minutes for the artichoke dip By the end of the visit, the delays and lack of attention made the experience feel frustrating and not worth it. Overall, while the food was okay, the service and long wait times significantly impacted the experience. I would not return. read more

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If I could rate this place lower, I absolutely would. What happened here was not simply bad customer service. It was an extremely disrespectful and, in my view, blatantly racially motivated experience. My family and I were seated outside, so I walked inside and asked the bartender if I could use the restroom. I explained that we were paying customers. Instead of simply answering my question, he immediately became dismissive and told me he couldn't see who I was with. I pointed out our table, and he accused us of all just eating ice cream and not ordering anything, followed by, "this isn't a free restroom." I calmly explained that my dad had actually come inside and purchased drinks. He responded with a nasty and dismissive "okay." He then proceeded to stare at me, so I politely asked if I was allowed to use the restroom. He laughed in my face and said, "do you need me to hold your hand and take you there?" I cannot emphasize enough that I was polite from the moment I walked in. I was not rude, confrontational, or causing any sort of problem. Yet every time I spoke, he addressed me as if I was doing something wrong or creating an issue. The hostility was completely unnecessary. What makes this interaction even more disturbing is the racial dynamic. As a Black woman, I could not help but notice that I was being treated very differently from the white patrons inside the restaurant. I was polite from the start, yet every time I spoke, he spoke to me as though I was causing a problem. I did not observe him speaking to the white patrons inside with that same level of hostility or disrespect. The difference was also noticeable when my white dad spoke to him. His demeanor toward my dad was much less confrontational, while he continued to be dismissive and hostile toward me and my mom, who are black, as well as our asian female family friend. I cannot say what was going through his mind, but the difference in how he interacted with us was difficult to ignore, and I genuinely believe I was singled out because I am black. The entire interaction left me feeling that the treatment I received was racially motivated. After I returned from the restroom, I told him that his behavior had completely ruined my day. My family went inside to ask him what had happened, and he tried to act as though he had said nothing. When I came back in and reiterated that he was rude and had no reason to speak to me that way, he became aggressive and asked me whether I personally had bought a drink, despite the fact that I had already explained that my family had purchased drinks. He then questioned why I felt the need to tell him that he was being rude and said he did not understand why I had to make his day more difficult. Rather than taking any accountability for how he had spoken to me, he made it seem as though my calling out his behavior was the problem. I walked away feeling extremely disrespected, humiliated, and singled out. There is absolutely no excuse for treating a customer this way, and the racial undertones of the interaction make it even more unacceptable. Shameful behavior. I will absolutely never return, and I hope management seriously addresses how customers are being treated. read more

We came here on a Saturday and don't believe we had a reservation. In Old Town Alexandria so there is some street parking and garages around. We ended up sitting outside in a cute courtyard but service was a little intermittent being outside. I ordered the Apple Cider Mimosa which was delicious age my friend ordered a flight. Wine was pretty good as well. We did end up ordering some food. It was still in the brunch time frame so my friend ordered a BLT breakfast sandwich. I ordered the Pimento Cheese Dip. The BLT was interesting. Cheese dip was good. I think i would come back and try the rest of the menu. Cute spot to hangout at. read more

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Our experience was really good. It was freezing outside and we popped in here to warm up a bit during our journey on King. They had dog treats outside in a bowl to invite us in. We asked if it was ok to bring our pup inside (the window mentions pups are allowed in the back, but there was snow on the ground and cold). We were allowed so we came in and tried out the tasting menu of 4 wines for $28. We ended up finding a Austrian Gewürztraminer (sp?) that we liked on the tasting menu and ended up getting a bottle. I saw the Happy Hour Menu which was $10 small bites. I tried the meatballs, cheese plate and crostini's from the list. I would have liked the crostini to have had 4 pieces for the money but the 3 were very flavorful. A bri and apple, a squash with goat cheese and brown sugar, and a guac with a shrimp seasoned with what I think was old bay. You also get the old town charm inside with original hardwood planks, molding inside, paint, etc. I like the old time charm ambiance, but I think for me, I prefer a modern update to present a place as safe, clean, and relaxing. But I understand it is a historical town and this is the charm and vibe theme. read more

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Came for a birthday on a Sunday afternoon and found out they had brunch! We sat outside on the back patio (this was in September before the weather turned) and were one of three tables. Service was prompt and attentive, and food and drinks were brought out quickly. Most of us ordered the wine flight to try the different selections, and I had the steak and eggs (pictured) with a side of amazing mushrooms. Friends ordered a few sides and appetizers which were also very good. We ended up ordering a bottle of one of the wines in the flight. It was empty when we were there but the inside space is cute and might be a little tight if filled to capacity. Would recommend! read more

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We were seated outside in the back at a cheap looking table with cheap chairs. Food took forever to come out. When it finally did, it was brought by a food runner and our server never checked on us. Two of our entrees (both lemon shrimp risotto) were supposed to have bread but didn't. When our server finally appeared, I was more than halfway done. We asked about the bread and she actually said it wasn't supposed to be included. We politely told her that's not what the menu says. Bread showed up after I had finished my entree. Food was pretty good but at the price point, it was a disappointing experience. read more

I'm so bummed to have lost one of my go-to spots in Old Town! Sonoma Cellar used to be a favorite -- I loved the food, the service, the wine, the vibe. I used to actively recommend it. Now? I actively recommend *against* it. They've undergone a change in management somewhat recently and all I can say is that things seem to have gone way downhill. Even after the management change, I was determined to give it a fair shot, and tried it more than once (thinking my first bad experience was maybe just growing pains/the transition period). But at this point, I'm really wary about returning; the service seems to have gotten worse, the food wasn't great (the last thing I ordered was so salty it was nearly inedible), and they've done away with their Wine Down Wednesdays special (sadface!). Maybe I'll try it again at some point for old time's sake, but I certainly can't imagine myself being a regular anymore. A real shame. read more

I showed up and was treated very poorly by the staff. There were no signs indicating an event and was rudely told they were closed and that I needed to leave. He also had an angry tone. It was 7pm and there hours are 3:30-10pm. Thinking some staff should have customer service training. read more

I really enjoyed the chill and airy vibe in here. Situated on King Street, this sweet wine bar is nestled between shops and offers a nice reprieve. A friend and I sat at the bar on Sunday for some drinks. She had a wine flight, which she enjoyed overall, and I had a mango-mosa with a cup of their truly delightful butternut squash soup. The soup was the star for me! It was so well done and the pumpkin seeds and sour cream drizzle definitely elevated it. Service was friendly, and the prices were reasonable. The patio out back looked cute too. I'd absolutely consider a return on future trips to Alexandria. read more

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I was visiting my sister who lives nearby. We stopped in a late lunch and sips. We had my sister's dog, and their back garden was like a hidden gem- not too crowded, intimate, and shaded. They set us up with a dog bowl. The bartender inside was also the server outside- he was friendly, and idk how he knew when people needed him, but he seemed to be available whenever people were ready. The food was high-quality and tasty, nicely seasoned- I did feel the Sonoma, CA vibe. We thought ordering two crostinis would be too heavy, but they were perfect and different enough! Savory vs sweet. The tender Blackened Chicken was big enough to share between the two of us. Lastly, the wine flights were all good- 1 dry white (sauv blanc), 1 rose, 2 dry reds (blend + merlot)... as if it was made for me! read more

Sonoma Cellar - Brie and Fig Jam Crostini, Avocado Garlic Shrimp Crostini, Wine Flight - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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A cute Wine Cellar with a nice selection of California wines in addition to select wine from other countries. You can also order somewhat pricey small plates, lunch and dinner. Out back is a nicely shaded patio area. A big bowl of dog bones and water bowl for your fur baby on the entrance steps. We stopped for a cold Mimosa on our way to the Torpedo factory. read more

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I'm sad to give Sonoma Cellar a 3-star review because I want to rate it higher, but I can't based on this visit. Our first visit there last year was very good--good food, service, and atmosphere. This time we were in town for one night, and of all the restaurants in Old Town Alexandria, we chose this restaurant based on our last experience. This visit in May 2023 was lackluster. The atmosphere is still a winner--especially their outdoor seating in the back. But the food and service were not great. My order of short ribs came with three pieces of meat, but two were very fatty, and one of those was completely inedible. When we pointed this out to our server (at the end of the meal), the table behind us said there's was fatty too. One of our party ordered a glass of the weekly wine specials. After the wine had been delivered to our table and partly consumed, we were told that wine special was sold out, and they showed us a bottle of the wine they substituted. It was very good. When our bill arrived, though, we were charged $5 more for the substitute wine without anyone asking us if that it was ok or offering us optional wines. On the positive side, the French Onion soup was excellent, and the blacken chicken entree was a unique preparation that our friend greatly enjoyed. read more

Sonoma Cellar - Short ribs with noodles and carrots - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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Its our second time here. They have great service and a diverse wine menu. We had a great time last night. read more

Sonoma Cellar - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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My husband and I stopped in here when we were having trouble getting into other restaurants on King St and we're so glad we did! It's an intimate little wine bar with kind service. The server let me try a couple wines before deciding on one, so I appreciated that. read more

Sometimes things just fall perfectly into place. Exactly our story at Sonoma Cellar last night. Delicious wine selection, impeccable service, and amazing food. As an older guy, it's nice to land somewhere where the music isn't blaring so loud that it makes having a conversation impossible. SC was almost library-like, with the ability to speak in normal voices, while still enjoying the ambient chatter from nearby tables and noisy King Street. The cheese and charcuterie board was easily the best one we've had in Alexandria: enough bread, incredible fig jam, and a beautiful assortment of just the right sizes of artisanal cheeses and meats. Nights like these make dining so much more fun and worthwhile. read more

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Sophie was incredible! Wonderful tasting! Wonderful wine flights and atmosphere! Wonderful service!

My wife and I go to this wine bar almost every time before or after we go to dinner in Old Town Alexandria. This place is such a hidden gem for wine lovers. The wine is always great and fairly priced. My wife and I tend to get the wine flights which are great for tasting multiple different wines to see which ones you like the best. The wine flights tend to change every so often and it really is such a great deal. The ambiance is always a nice, chill, and relaxing vibe. If you're in Old Town Alexandria and are a wine lover, I highly recommend this place. read more

Hidden green in Old Town. I've walked past this place multiple times, but wanted somewhere 4 friends could just have a nice wine or beer. This was a great option. We had the burger and wine and the server was knowledgeable to sides something for our tastes. We sat outside and the leaves kept falling from the trees and I got ate up by bugs, so please be mindful. I look forward to returning read more

Sonoma Cellar - Menu - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Stumbled across this gem while searching for things to do on EventBrite, and I'm so glad I did. I purchase tickets for their July Sparkling Wine Class for BFF and bestie and I enjoyed everything from start to finish. We had the chance to taste 5 different wines and champagnes PLUS light appetizers. Our instructor was super knowledgeable, and I ended up purchasing 2 bottles at the end of the event since the bottles were 40% off - Can't. Beat. That. At. All. There is also a cute little outside dining section that we caught a glimpse of while walking up the steps to the wine tasting room. Def an excuse to come back! read more

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Joe ABSOLUTELY saved this review! This was 100% going to be a one star review, if it weren't for our bartender/server. We came to the restaurant early in the day to see if we could come back in the afternoon after our activities. We were never asked to make a reservation. When we came back, just like we said, we did everything we were supposed to--entered with masks, waited to be seated, etc. However, despite this, we were greeted horrendously. It truly felt like the hostess did not want to sit us, and then entire indoor part of the restaurant was EMPTY! I mean.... Emmmpty! We relayed we really just came for a quick sampling of their wine flights, and then nothing happened. It took about 10 minutes for our server to come by and ask what we'd like, and we relayed the same... we'd just like to try the wine flights. My mom was so hurt by how this all started, she literally asked Joe "why does no one want to serve us? Do you not want us here?" At this point, her experience was ruined. However, Joe absolutely turned it around. He quickly served us our flights, and despite being slammed eventually, still took time to tell me about their monthly wine classes. We eventually explained to him why we weren't too happy and the reasoning behind my mom's earlier question, detailing how we were treated. Eventually, I ran out of water and walked to the bar, as I knew they were busy, and another server kindly brought me a large water carafe. And in the end, as he knew how hurt my mom was, Joe comped my mom's wine tasting, which we absolutely weren't expecting. So, that is service, and again, Joe made this experience everything that it was. For the wines, the flight had a gorgeous presentation, and I LOVED all four in the flight. My mom enjoyed the first white and the rose the best! So, with all that being said, happy sipping, friends! Tip: if you'd like to sit in the garden, make a reservation! read more

Sonoma Cellar - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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My group of 5 liked this place overall. We went for brunch. I had carbonara, which wasn't the best one ever so I recommend trying other dishes. I sampled the shrimp avocado crostini and it was really good. Excellent shrimp and fresh bread and avocado. My friends liked the fish and beef tacos and beef brisket as well. Drinks are only beer and wine, but they do have mimosas by the glass or pitcher. Service wasn't the best but was adequate. read more

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My wife and I tried Sonoma Cellar for Alexandria's Restaurant Week. We got good food, good wine, and good service, eating in a very pleasant backyard area. My meal started with a great deviled eggs appetizer. For my main course, I got the gnocchi. The browned butter sage sauce was delicious. For dessert, I got the Flourless chocolate cake. That was fantastic. Definitely better than most such cakes. My wife and I each got the rioja on the menu, which was among their less expensive wines, and it was a well-selected bottle. Flavorful, but without the bitterness that some riojas have, and very smooth. With the restaurant week special, the price for our meal was reasonable. Without it, SC is a little on the pricey side, but not hugely unreasonable. The wines start at $10/glass and are almost all well under $20. The gnocchi is $20 on the regular menu. There are less expensive places to eat. But, if you're up for a bit of a premium to have a good meal and good wine on King Street, Sonoma Cellar delivers pretty well. read more

Loved this place! The staff were friendly and very knowledgeable about the wine. I did the tasting and loved everything I tried. They have happy hour and lots of nightly specials. Additionally they have a lovely back patio and an upstairs seating area. I plan on coming back to try the food and enjoy more wines. For those that don't drink wine... they have beer too! read more

Sonoma Cellar - Wine tasting menu - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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Where have you been all my life? Jose was fantastic at making us feel at home. We had the cheese plate, shrimp on Avocado toast and brie crostini. All of it delicious but the shrimp avocado toast was amazing! We had to order a second round. The pimento dip and artichoke dip was fantastic. We tried so many different types of wine and all were fantastic. I can't wait to come back. read more

Sonoma Cellar - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

We had some time to kill before a dinner reservation and found this wine bar using Yelp. The wine offerings by the glass were okay (I, of course, ordered one that was listed on the menu but that they were out of) - nothing unusual or particularly exciting. But more than the wines, I just didn't like the vibe of the place very much. We sat at the bar since we were just getting a glass of wine before heading out for our dinner reservation, and we just didn't feel super welcome? We kind of felt like we were in the way. The staff seemed kind of unhappy and stressed, and we had to kind of wave service down to order and for our check. It just wasn't a place I felt very welcome or where I'd want to spend a lot of time. Based on this experience, I probably wouldn't return. Next time I'm in the area, I'll try to find a place for wine that's further out from the most touristy area of Alexandria. read more

Sonoma Cellar - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Great wine selection here and really tasty charcuterie boards. Service is knowledgeable and friendly if you ah e any questions about the wine. read more

Sonoma Cellar - Nero d'Avolo - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

This was my first time at Sonoma Cellar and will not be my last. I had a great experience with Jose at the bar. I arrived by myself and was greeted promptly when I came into the restaurant and I opted to sit at the bar and decided to do a tasting along with the charcuterie and cheeseboard. Jose was extremely helpful and gave great recommendations for me to decide which wines to taste as well as giving me samples. The place is small and cute with nice decorations. Due to the weather no one was sitting on the outside patio but they had indoor seating on two levels. It was pretty busy for a rainy Sunday afternoon. Despite the ugly weather outside the energy inside was amazing. The cheese and charcuterie board was plentiful and filling. I'm extremely excited to go back and sample some other food items that are on their menu. read more

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We love it here! Whether you're a solo traveler or looking for a cute brunch with friends -- I highly recommend. Great happy hour! Guaranteed a nice glass of wine. Loved the salmon crostinis!!! read more

Sonoma Cellar - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Okay. If you want a girls day out in Old Town, it is a MUST. Wine is phenomenal and the food. The cheeseboard I could live off. The employees were so kind and answered every question about the food/wine. read more

Sonoma Cellar - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

An absolutely lovely place to enjoy some delicious appetizers, friends and of course...Vino! This place is small but super charming, and full of character. With an indoor bar area as well as an outdoor patio there's plenty of seating for friends and or family to gather and enjoy some of life's finest libations. Certainly a hip place to chill with a great selection of music and the bar tender pretty much rocked my socks off with his kindness and customer service. The food was outstanding (in all honesty we only had the appetizers) I highly recommend the charcuterie board, and the crab cake sliders...super delicious. The outdoor seating is wonderful on good weather nights with lovely mood lighting to boot...and if it's chilly there are outdoor heaters! Seriously...I love this place. Seating: plenty outside, bar seating, and some indoor tables Ambiance: casual to hip Menu: a fine assortment of appetizers, pasta dishes, salads, chicken, steak etc... Swing in and grab a bar stool...and don't forget to invite your friends! read more

Sonoma Cellar - A beautiful glass of Chardonnay on a wonderful evening - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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I found this place on Yelp and decided to give it a try based on other Yelp reviews. My cousin and I, wanted to do a local wine tasting without going to a vineyard. So we headed to Old Town Alexandria to Sonoma Cellar. When I walked in the establishment the decor was very beautiful and relaxing. I felt as if I instantly transferred to Sonoma California! The hostess greeted us and we requested outdoor seating. It was a whole vibe. Relaxing colors, serene mood and the staff is well informed about their wine. I had just come from brunch so I wasn't able to try the menu items however, everyone's food looked delicious as we looked to see what people were ordering. We did get a charcuterie with meat, fruit, jam and cheese. It was by far the freshest I have had and again I felt as if I were in California. I highly recommend this establishment for friends catching up to a night date place or a low key chill spot. I'll be back again. Hope to see you there! Enjoy the pictures! It was really as good as it looks! read more

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if you get a chance to swing by, I definitely recommend the Greek trio as an appetizer and if you're there for breakfast or brunch -- I enjoyed the omelette with potatoes. Annnnnnnd this is your sign to try a mangosa. read more

Cute tasting area, they also have a terrace in the back. I just came for a tasting. Their June flight had 4 wines, good size pours. Wide selection of great wines. read more

We were looking to sit outside for a cocktail after brunch yet everything had such a long wait. POOF! As serendipitous as it was we stumbled upon Sonoma Cellar! This place is so adorable and is the perfect location to enjoy an afternoon glass of Rose in the shaded cobblestone backyard patio. They offer a full menu but we were so stuffed from brunch that we only had room for wine ! We'll definitely venture in again soon! read more

Sonoma Cellar - Biutiful Rose - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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Very great wine selection. Loved the flight and how affordable it was. Can't wait to come back and try the food!

I would recommend asking to be seated on the back patio, as it's green and intimate and beautiful. The coffee is good quality, and all of the brunch options are good. I also recommend ordering a cinnamon roll for the table if you come for brunch. read more

Sonoma Cellar - Back patio - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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They have an adorable garden with very well spaced out/distanced tables. You walk in, give your information (for contact tracing), they take your temperature, and escort you to your table. St the table, you scan a QR code to view the menu. Everyone is very focused on safety and we felt extremely safe. The wine is great and highly encourage the tasting flight. Prices are also affordable! A great spot for a drink and snack in Old Town with all of the proper precautions to keep you safe. read more

Sonoma Cellar - Wine Tasting Room Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Great environment, very awesome sommelier/bartender named Kellie who recommended wine pairings and taste tests. The cheese board and artichoke dip paired well with the red. I highly recommend if you're looking for a good wine bar. read more