San Diego’s Vin de Syrah

By Ann Wycoff | January 7, 2010 |

Descending below the hustle and bustle of San Diego’s Gaslamp into an Alice-in-Wonderland-esque rabbit hole, one finds an enchanted spirit and wine parlor with bright green foliage on the walls, creeping 50-year-old vines, botanical chandeliers, and oversized furniture in dramatic shades. Maverick designer and imagineer Michael Soriano’s vision is masterfully crafted and inspires guests lips to curl upwards in delighted surprise as they settle into the madhatter scenery. Soriano has truly redressed the subterranean urban environment into a lush eclectic lounge. Savory cheese and charcuterie arrives on wooden pizza boards and intimate wine tastings occur at the 12-foot natural wooden table helmed by resident sommelier and mixologist Adam Stemmler. Unique boutique vineyards punctuate the wine list from Central Coast Tempranillos to Argentinean Malbecs with clever cocktails (think Caprese Martinis or truffle-infused vodka sippers) and frosty artisan beers abound. Music also plays a key role with the notes of jazz trios, blues musicians, and house Djs filling the space and calendar. Sunday eve is board game night for rounds of Scrabble, Apples to Apples, Clue and Sorry. The Saturday night tastings for 14 people fill quickly, but thankfully, in the New Year, a Friday night series has begun. Don’t forget to call in for reservations: 619.234.4166.