Barcelona's Bottled Delights: Nine Wine Bar Havens

Photo by iStock

From hushed, elegant temples to the raw energy of natural wine pioneers, Barcelona offers a constellation of wine bars ready to seduce the discerning traveller.  

Can Cisa / Bar Brutal (El Born): Where the Wild Things Are in Wine

Photo by Can Cisa

Can Cisa is a manifesto for natural wine. Here, the focus is fiercely on organic and biodynamic wines, often unfiltered and brimming with character. The ever-evolving list is a playground for adventurous palates, complemented by a menu of inventive small plates that sing with fresh, seasonal flavours. Think grilled octopus dancing with beetroot, or the surprising delight of smoked sardines with crisp apple.

Address: Carrer de la Princesa, 14

Website: cancisa.cat

La Vinya del Senyor (El Born): Sipping History with a Sacred View

Foto: La Vinya del Senyor

For a truly soul-stirring experience, seek out La Vinya del Senyor. Perched across the majestic Santa Maria del Mar church in El Born, this beloved haunt has been pouring exceptional wines since 1997. The outdoor terrace, offering unparalleled views of the Gothic grandeur, is reason enough to visit. Inside, a treasure trove of wines awaits, with a particular reverence for Spanish varietals and an impressive sherry selection. The bar is known for its large selection of wines by the glass (updated every two weeks). Pair your chosen pour with artisanal cheeses or cured Iberian delights for a timeless Barcelona moment.

Address: Plaça de Santa Maria, 5, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Website: lavinyadelsenyor.com/

Monvínic (Eixample): An Elegant Ode to Oenology

Photo by Monvínic

In the sophisticated Eixample district, this sleek, minimalist space exudes an air of quiet elegance, a fitting backdrop for its meticulously curated wine list. Both international stars and hidden local gems grace the pages, offering a remarkable selection of exceptional wines, with bottles available by the glass. The accompanying cheese board is a carefully considered symphony of flavours. Here, knowledgeable sommeliers guide your journey, transforming a simple drink into an educational and deeply satisfying experience.

Address: Carrer de la Diputació, 251

Website: monvinic.com

Viblioteca (Gràcia): Nordic Charm, Catalan Heart

Escape to the bohemian enclave of Gràcia and discover the understated charm of Viblioteca. This intimate cheese and wine restaurant blends a cool Nordic aesthetic with a warm Catalan heart. Their thoughtfully curated wine selection provides a perfect counterpoint to their impressive array of around sixty cheeses. Viblioteca feels like a well-kept secret, a place to linger over exceptional wine and artisanal produce.

Address: Carrer de les Sitges, 3, 08001 Barcelona, Spain

Website: viblioteca.com

Zona d'Ombra (Gothic Quarter): Whispers of Wine in the Old Jewish Quarter

Photo by Zona d'Ombra

Wander through the labyrinthine streets of the historic Jewish Quarter and stumble upon the inviting embrace of Zona d'Ombra. This enoiteca evokes rustic charm with its exposed stone walls and intimate atmosphere. The focus here is firmly on Catalan and other Spanish wines.. It's a place to slow down, with a robust local red and traditional tapas, and absorb the ancient atmosphere of the neighbourhood.

Address: Carrer de la Merce, 20, 08002 Barcelona, Spain

Website: zonadombra.es

Eldiset (El Born): Trendy Sips of Catalan Terroir

Photo by Eldiset

In the perpetually buzzing El Born, Eldiset offers a stylish take on the wine bar experience. Its sleek, timber-lined interior provides a modern backdrop for a deep dive into Catalan wines. With around twenty local varieties available by the glass, it's an ideal spot to explore the region's diverse terroir. Beyond the impressive wine list, Eldiset delights with its creative and flavourful tapas, from classic cheese platters to innovative open-faced sandwiches. The atmosphere is vibrant and convivial, making it a perfect pre-dinner stop or a lively evening destination.

Address: Carrer Antic de Sant Joan 3

Website: eldiset.com

Els Sortidors del Parlament (Sant Antoni): Unpretentious Quality, Unbeatable Value

This rustic tavern, with its mismatched chairs and unhurried atmosphere, champions quality wine without the hefty price tag. The wine bottles are sold at store price, and a 4 euro corkage fee is added. While their list spans the globe, a particular emphasis is placed on the wines of Catalonia. It's a place where locals and savvy travellers mingle, enjoying honest, well-priced wines alongside simple yet satisfying "pica pica." A true testament to the enduring appeal of unpretentious quality.

Address: Carrer del Parlament, 53

Bar Salvatge (Gràcia): Embracing the Wild Side of Wine

Photo by Bar Salvatge

True to its name ("savage" or "wild"), Bar Salvatge in the heart of Gràcia champions the captivating world of natural wines. This unpretentious, rustic-chic space offers a carefully curated selection of wines made with minimal intervention, often boasting intriguing and expressive flavours. Complementing the adventurous wine list are locally sourced cheeses.

Address: Carrer de Verdi, 50, 08012 Barcelona, Spain

Website: barsalvatge.com

Monocrom (Eixample): Local Gems and Mediterranean Harmony

Photo by Monochrom

Nestled on a quieter corner of Plaza Cardona, Monocrom offers a refined yet welcoming escape. Their wine list shines a spotlight on the exceptional quality and diversity of organic and natural wines. The accompanying menu features fresh, seasonal dishes, with all the products produced locally.

Address: Plaça de Cardona, 5, 08006 Barcelona, Spain