Brisbane’s wine bars offer tipples from just about anywhere and everywhere — from Australia to Greece and the velvety depths of reds to the crisp heights of whites. But the Queensland capital does have a handful of bars dedicated to supporting small-batch wineries from across the globe, providing wine enthusiasts with plenty of new drops to discover.
So, if you’re after something unique or want to expand your palate, check out these Brisbane wine bars doing things differently. After all, a rendezvous with friends at a wine bar is an all-year-round activity, whether it’s a frigid winter or sweltering summer.
Mr Chester, Fortitude Valley
Mr Chester transcends the typical wine bar experience. Co-owner Luke Reimers, a seasoned sommelier and design enthusiast, joined forces with Wayne Murphy to create a haven solely dedicated to wine. The clean, polished space on Church Street boasts an intimate space with communal tables and a bar. With a curated menu featuring only one beer, two whiskies, and two gins, Mr Chester focuses unmistakably on its extensive and thoughtfully selected wine list. The wine list bypasses larger distributors, offering a rotating selection from diverse winemakers, ensuring a unique and enriching tasting experience every visit.
Alba Bar and Deli, CBD
Stumble across this narrow Pintxos bar, and you’ll find yourself in a dream world where 90s Brooklyn meets old-world San Sebastian. The venue’s 50-seat brick bunker on Burnett Lane, dressed with wooden detailing and an enormous MF Doom print, offers a vibrant setting for wine drinkers. Speaking of wine, the list is riddled with Spanish varietal gems, from cava to mataro.
Maeve, South Brisbane
You’ll have to climb some stairs to find this haven of European elegance. Once inside, expect dark wooden panelling, marble counters, and ribbed glass. The food menu is as popular as the wine list, but let’s stay on track. Featuring 80 bottles of European wines alongside new-world selections, you’re guaranteed to find something to tickle your palate. Think Italian Visintini Friulano or Margaret River’s Dormilona Chenin Blanc.
Felix for Goodness, CBD
If you’re looking for something that doesn’t have a Bible-sized wine list, Felix for Goodness is the place you want to pull up a seat. Don’t be fooled by its cafe exterior; by the afternoon, it transitions into a full wine bar with shared plates. The wine menu is through spoken word, so you’ll have to ask about the week’s selection, but how exciting. It’s different and fun.
Wine and Larder, Ashgrove
Relish plates of charcuterie, and cheese, and explore a curated selection of rare wines from Australia and beyond. Sip on a delightful Adelaide Hills Pinot Noir or savour an Italian Cortese, Wine and Larder is your perfect evening just around the corner.
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