Whether you prefer white or red vino, you can find collector-worthy wine at a handful of wine bars in Edmonton. We raise a glass to these fine establishments, where wine is treasured above all other beverages.
While people often associate the Bothy with whisky (largely thanks to their Whisky Wednesdays specials), it’s important to remember that wine gets first reference in the pub’s name – and the wine list is certainly deserving of recognition. They offer 20 different reds, whites and roses by the glass and they use the Enomatic system to preserve the flavour of the wine after it’s been opened.
This Greek restaurant and wine bar has a huge selection of vino. My favourite way to enjoy it is in flights, so I can sample anywhere from two to eight different kinds of wine without overindulging. It’s a great way to figure out if you’re into Burrowing Owl Chardonnay or if you’re more of a Blasted Church Gewurztraminer person. The list of reds outnumbers the white wines, so if you’re big on merlot, cab sauvignon and Bordeaux, you’ll especially enjoy this spot.
Located underground on the popular 104 Street promenade, The Cavern is all about wine, cheese and coffee. A lot of the wines are on enomatic, which is basically the draught version of wine. They have an exclusive selection (don’t be surprised if you don’t recognize anything on the vino list), so it’s a fantastic chance to try new, unique wines you haven’t experienced before. Pair them with some cheese and you’re set!
While it’s not advertised on their menu, the lovely staff at Privada Wine & Tapas will serve you flights of wine if you’re interested in trying a variety. You can do four two-ounce samples of any wine that is available by the glass. It’s the perfect way to try new varieties you aren’t familiar with or to mix red and white if you’re sampling a variety of dishes.
It’s a very small space, so reservations are highly encouraged (and tough to get, so plan ahead). The menu is full of suggestions for wine pairings with the tapas, so it’s easy to order. What’s not easy is choosing only a few wines to try, so while you’re planning your reservation, perhaps add a cab home into the equation.
At this vino establishment, wine is sold by the ounce or bottle. The price list is broken down by under $40, $40-60, $61-180, $101-200, $201-500 and $501 and up, making it easy to order by price, if that’s your concern. If money or drunkenness is no problem, then why not try a bottle of a 2008 Penfolds Bin 620 Coonawarra Cabernet Shiraz for a mere $2,200? At the opposite end of the spectrum, their least expensive bottle clocks in at $36.