Wine bars might have been getting succeeding generations of European patrons a little tipsy for centuries, but they are a newer concept in America. The South Bay has been making up for lost time in recent years by paralleling a nationwide uptick in such establishments that began in the ’90s. This likely reflects the expanding consumption of wine in general, with millennials joining baby-boomers as the most frequent wine buyers these days. The recent popularity of local wine bars is logical given how ideally suited they are to helping patrons learn about and consume wine. Large offerings with by-the-taste or bythe glass pours as well as intriguing “flights” of a few related wines—say, “massive reds”—is the wine bar standard, accompanied by usually simple, wine-friendly edibles. Contrast this with a highly marked-up restaurant wine list primarily focused on full bottles of wine or presenting a miniscule, sometimes-pedestrian by-the-glass offering. It’s telling that virtually every local wine bar proudly announces itself as “unpretentious” or myriad synonyms meant to ease widespread worry over inadequate wine knowledge among the general public—including many eager wine consumers. Given how massive and often complex the wine sphere is and just how much education and exposure are required to glibly reel off bon mots about specific varietals, producers and vintages, the humble wine bar is the ideal antidote. Patrons can consume their favorite liquid while learning much more about the beverage than in other settings. Reinforcing that reality are enjoyable events offered at many establishments that hasten wine knowledge without intimidation. Another huge attraction of wine bars is cost. Buying glasses of wine versus the bottles that are the restaurant norm isn’t as pricey and the accompanying food is more in the thrifty nibble realm compared to a fancy multi-course meal elsewhere. This also makes wine bars a great option for a quick snack compared to a full dinner. Cheese and charcuterie platters, olives and related items that show off wine flavors are the standard, but quite a few local wine bars have expanded menus that encourage longer sipping sessions. Given how utterly wonderful it is to savor vitus vinifera wines on a warm summer day with like-minded friends, local wine bars often include alfresco areas where one can quaff appealing wines—or craft beers, or ciders or even non-alcoholic offerings—under a shading umbrella after work, at lunch or as the highlight of an enjoyable, light summer supper. Here’s our guide to South Bay wine bars with patios from north to south where the sipping is supreme. 84 South Bay Accent calave wine bar PALO ALTO This newer wine bar is located in a spot that was once a brewery in the city’s “second downtown” to the south, which was the rowdy, pre-Prohibition burg of Mayfield before being annexed. The owners still aim to deliver a lively, friendly atmosphere but with oodles of comfort, as seen in plush couches, a wrap-around bar with hanging wine glasses and a whole assortment of PB & J snacks, among others. There are a few tables outdoors in front that take advantage of the recently refurbished sidewalks. Besides the usual, the food here includes enticing offerings like deviled eggs with dill and mustard, truffled popcorn and seriously addictive chocolates that some people enjoy with a big red. The worldwide wine list and upscale food have made happy hour here a popular affair. PAIRINGS ON THE PATIO Sample caprese skewers (cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls) with an aromatic torrontes from Argentina or steak and white cheddar panini escorting a juicy sangiovese/merlot from Beauregard Vineyards in Santa Cruz. DETAILS 299 California Ave., 650/521- 0443; calave.com little wine counter THE PRUNEYARD, CAMPBELL A wine-focused venue from those behind now-closed Little Chef Counter in San Pedro Square, this new operation hasn’t altered its cooking style from the indulgent dishes like poutine and pork belly that the earlier spot was known for, now delivering rich snacks such as truffled mac and cheese with bacon, duck rillette and black peppercorn cheesecake. And this is just how patrons like it. With 30 international wines, there are choices for everyone, while the food gets some of the higher marks among local wine bars. A hit are the “chef’s bites” that are a tasty pot-luck item like popped corn cooked in duck fat. Lunch and brunch are building a strong following, while the popularity of the small patio is reason enough to grab a table early. PAIRINGS ON THE PATIO Match endive pear salad with candied walnuts and goat cheese with a fruity Provençal rose or heavy-duty steak tartare featuring quail egg and garlic confit with a full-bodied La Storia merlot. DETAILS 1875 S. Bascom Ave., Suite 560 (Pruneyard), 408/429-8526; littlewinecounter.com COURTESY OF CALAVE WINE BAR; OPPOSITE: COURTESY OF CIELO WINE BAR; PREVIOUS SPREAD: COURTESY OF FEDERAL REALTY INVESTMENT TRUST
South Bay Accent - AugSep 2016
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