With the turn of the millennium wine bars came back into fashion. They began to boom in the Maltese entertainment scene. Wine bars have introduced a new trend to the local nightlife. The notion that wine is associated with elite and exclusive clients has been overturned. Nowadays people of all ages get together and converse over a glass of wine while eating sumptuous food. Drinking wine is considered as an ordinary, everyday pleasure!
A wine bar works best when it offers a diverse and versatile wine list together with exquisite food. Today’s wine bars offer a great place to meet in a laid-back and relaxed ambience. Being a direct competition to coffee shops and bars. You can unwind and relax after a long day at work or after a busy week. Or visit a wine bar to hang out and socialize with family and friends. Whilst indulging in a bottle of wine and eating mouth-watering nibbles.
On the island you will be delighted to find different styled wine bars. All serving local and foreign wines. There is something for everyone. If you seek a glass of wine in a quaint and casual atmosphere you will find what you are looking for.
Around the island you still find the traditional, cosy, laid-back wine bars. These are mainly located in village squares and alleys in converted townhouses. Such wine bars are especially popular if you love quaint and warm feelings. Most of these wine bars have chic interiors. Making them a delightful place to stop and scan through their endless wine list.
Besides in Malta you will find many modern wine bars. A couple of which are in popular nightlife localities. These wine bars are modern hangouts with high-design interiors. Most of which have open air terraces. These wine bars are greatly sought after in summer months. Patrons enjoy their evening drinking wine and eating delectable bites. Whilst appreciating the summer breeze.
Sometimes, with so many options, it’s hard to narrow down where to go.
Wines served at wine bars
A distinctive wine bar would stock a vast array of both local and foreign wines. They would stock renowned wines, older vintages and those which are regularly selected. Wine bars keep their wines stored in wine cellars or in temperature controlled coolers, in an attempt to offer wines in their ideal state.
Each wine bar has an exceptional selection of wines. Sometimes the wine list can be overwhelmingly long! To make the choice a little bit easier most wine bars will provide their clients with the wine list. This sets out the name of the wine, then its grapes and finally, its origin. Passionate and knowledgeable people run local wine bars. So staff are ready to go the extra mile and are always happy to help. Staff are able to offer advice and help their customers in selecting a bottle which will please their taste buds.
Wine bars on the island have a strong focus on local, French and Italian wines. You can taste some distinctive Italian wine and enjoy a glass of French wine. Yet the majority of local wine bars stock wines from all over the world on their wine list. You will find famous wines from Chile, Argentina, South Africa, Spain, New Zealand and Australia. White wines commonly served are Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Blanc, Moscato. Red wines served are Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, Sangiovese, Chianti.
A concept which was introduced in Malta over the last few years is that of providing wine by the glass. This is helpful if you are not a heavy drinker or if you are after a wine tasting experience. Almost all wine bars in Malta offer a wide selection of wines by the glass.
If you are a tourist you can savour the Maltese indigenous varieties being Gellewza and Ghirghentina. These are exceptional wines with distinct body and flavour. Besides you can taste the international grape varieties which are grown locally. Such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay and many more.
Bear in mind that bars can only serve wine to people over the age of 18.
A couple of wine bars provide the possibility of renting out their place or an exclusive room for a private function.
Food served at wine bars
The wines on offer, their prices, together with food and service play a critical role in a wine bar’s demand. These days wine bars seek to enhance the palate. So that you take pleasure in consuming appetizing food while drinking a bottle or two. All wine bars provide a choice of delicious food. From light snacks to meals, which will satiate your appetite while drinking a glass of wine.
Commonly served platters are cheese, cured meats, cold cuts and Maltese food. Some places offer a choice of focaccia and Maltese “ftira” together with salads and wraps. Several wine bars started to incorporate a larger variety of foods. In that they provide meals such as pasta and main dishes.
Wine bars’ ambience
Whether you are planning to socialize with family and friends. Or wish to spend a romantic evening with your partner. Or celebrate a special occasion, head to a wine bar to enjoy an unforgettable evening. Keep in mind that during weekends wine bars will be bustling with people. So it would be ideal to make a reservation.
Wine bars are in demand all year round. Throughout the spring and summer season it is the prime time to appreciate the island’s outdoor wine bars. Outdoor wine bars have a casual ambience which is more vibrant and lively. During the winter months take pleasure in snuggling up and relish the cosy feeling of quaint and quiet wine bars. Wine bars located in village squares or alleys around Malta and Gozo tend to emanate a warm and welcoming atmosphere. These wine bars are regarded has having a sophisticated and classy feel. The wine bar you opt for depends on your personality and the vibe you’re looking for.
The ambience and decor play a significant role in a wine bar’s success of attracting and keeping clients. Most of the wine bars in Malta and Gozo have fabulous and lavish decor. Some places considered as upmarket provide an elegant lounge and luxurious surroundings. With sofas to relax on as you enjoy the pleasant atmosphere. Other places offer a laid-back setting with comfortable tables and chairs. The laid-back surroundings contribute to a good socializing setting.
