The Enthusiasts! NYC Wine Club: A Night Out on the Town

"Life is too short, and I'm Italian. I'd much rather eat pasta and drink wine than be a size zero."

                                                                                              ~ Sophia Bush 

Photo Source: 

http://www.hampshirewineschool.com/catlist.php?cat=64

Hey there Enthusiasts! This week the wine club is in search of a change of scenery. Well, in search for a great wine club really. This month, the wine club will explore what makes a great wine bar!

As usual, what makes a great wine bar is whether it suits your personal taste. If you like it, then it's a great spot. However, if you are looking for something new, I usually consider the following:

1. Formalities:

 I know its unromantic, but its the lawyer in me to start with logistics. Does the wine bar your looking at take reservations? Do they have an awesome happy hour? Sometimes having a reservation and some piece of mind is worth it.

2. Ambiance:

 Are you looking for a place that is small and off the beaten path. Somewhere where you can see and be seen? Or somewhere with dimly-lit tables and a low key atmosphere. If any of the above is important to you, you will want to focus your search on specific types of bars.

3. Wine Region:

 Now - finally to the wine! Do you want to try something from a specific region or do you want to visit a place with a diverse wine list? Some bars will focus only on Italian or French wine - so if you are craving a creamy California Chardonnay, you may want to narrow your search accordingly.

4. Wine Selection:

 Similarly, if you are looking to try something new and different - I recommend looking for a bar with a diverse list of wines by the glass. This way you can try wines from many different regions without breaking the bank (or your liver for that matter).

5. Food Options:

 You may be thinking - duh! what wine bar doesn't have food? But don't over look this step. I've been caught at a great wine bar, craving something for dinner, and turning to bread and cheese for dinner alone (which is great - but expensive).

Just a few things to think about when choosing a wine bar! My ultimate recommendation - try something new!

Cheers!