Barcelona Wine Bars
If Barcelona and Madrid are in a race for wine bars, Madrid is the sure winner. In the geographic center of Spain, Madrid draws from the regions radiating from this axis. Not quite so in Barcelona.
Despite being the big city in the heart of Catalunya, a major wine-producing region itself with 12 separate DOs, Barcelona has traditionally reserved the good wines for restaurants and boutique wine stores. The scene is changing, slowly. The top class-act wine bars La Vinya del Senyor and Monvinic have been joined by a smattering of small tapas bars with intriguing wine lists. Across the city, look out for small-production Catalan wines that are impossible to find elsewhere.
La Vinya del Senyor
La Vinya del Senyor may be Barcelona's best known wine bar. Run by Quim Vila, legendary wine curator and owner of wine store and deli Vila Viniteca, the Gothic Quarter wine bar has a rotating selection of top-shelf Spanish and international wines by the glass. Lest the (high) prices of some of these bottles dissuade the wine drinkers, they offer these exclusive wines by the half glass as well. The bottle list, more of a catalogue than a mere list, offers rare vintages and world class international wines at fair prices. Open continuously from noon to midnight, the outside terrace is the place to snag a table and contemplate the stark beauty of Santa María del Mar Basilica, illuminated at night.
Monvínic
Monvínic reminds me of a wine bar where local somms go for hard to find international wines. The redone space is comfortable and the sound system is phenomenal. Jazz and rare wines by the glass makes for a great pairing.
Público
Público is a restaurant in the inner warren of spaces, and a wine bar in front and at the outside tables. A strong selection of round Spain wines with some interesting French and Italian glasses. Located on the ever popular pedestrian Enric Granados Street in the heart of the Eixample neighborhood.
Cellarer
Cellarer is a neighborhood spot in the Eixample district. In cosmopolitan Barcelona this means there are people from many corners of Europe and the Americas, most of whom live in town.
Their wine by the glass selection is never far reaching or focused on wines to be discovered, but it is always comforting. Some interesting Catalan wines, good value Mencias from Galicia and Bierzo, and a classic Rioja or or two. They serve small plates and the compelling food prices fill the place most nights. Outside of dinner hours you can cozy in with a glass or two and leave the diners to their dining.
Celler Florida
In the slightly off center Sant Antoni neighborhood, Celler Florida is a true neighborhood spot. The wall lined with bottles to drink in or take home is promising, as is the daily bottle lineup on the bar. You’ll find an always interesting selection of Spanish wines available by the glass here. Small Catalan producers to grand Rioja and Ribera del Duero houses. Here many neighborhood regulars opt for the excellent house cava or one of the many vermouths available. Celler Florida isn’t a restaurant, but you’ll find a short tapas menu with cheese, charcuterie and other bar snacks.
Glug
Glug is more of a casual and creative tapas bar with an interesting wine selection than a straight up wine bar. They are listed in the Michelin guide under Bib Gourmand which stands for good value quality cuisine.