San Diego wine bars come in all shapes in sizes, especially those that have graced the nightlife scene in recent years.
From downtown underground rustic taverns and hidden themed lounges to petite yet technologically advanced bars in North Park and trusted chains across the County, wine enthusiasts have many options when craving a fine class of vino in San Diego.
However, no wine haven had combined cutting-edge technology with swanky atmosphere and exclusive edge until the Ivy Hotel launched Ultra Lounge and Wine Bar in October of 2009.
Located in Ultra Lounge, an area previously known by party-goers as merely the path between descending Envy stairs and the elevator up to the Rooftop, the new Ivy Wine Bar gives purpose to the chic street level space. High-tech, interactive enomatic wine machines keep vintage bottles at peak freshness, offering 80 fine wines in Taste, Half, and Full glasses, with prices to match. These unique wine stations eliminate service standards and put guests in control; purchase a SmartCard, peruse the options, pick and push the button, and cheers a companion to your personal choice.
The customized experience is a mix between the craving of a candy store and the adrenaline rush of a Vegas slot machine.
With a cashed-up SmartCard in your hand, you are in control of the variety, portion size, and number of samples to try. And let me tell you, it's a thrill to gaze down the line of WineStations and know that you have direct power over your tasting desires. Let the games begin.
Opus One, Peter Michael “La Carriere” and Shafer “Hillside Select” are just 3 of the 80 rare and highly sought-after wine varieties offered by-the-glass. Guests will have an opportunity to enjoy wines ranging from high-end “cult” and boutique varietals to tried-and-true, without paying for steep bottle prices. The wine list ranges in price from $1.76 for a Taste of the 2007 Williamette Valley Riesling produced by Williamette Valley Vineyards (Oregon) to a Full glass of the 2004 Opus One (Napa Valley) for $28.47. In addition, champagne, including 2000 Moet et Chandon and Dom Perignon, is served by the glass at $44.00. Sample your favorite spirits in Taste (1.5 oz.), Half (4 oz.) and Full (6 oz.) glasses at the perfect temperature from the interactive machines.
The Ivy’s Ultra Lounge has always offered guests plush couches, bar seating, second-floor VIP tables and exclusive accommodations for party-goers looking for more privacy and space than the Envy scene allows. The same chic comfort and décor still defines Ultra Lounge, and now the Wine Bar offers additional sleek glass table seating close to the interactive machines for one-on-one intimate action.
Quarter Kitchen’s Executive Chef Nathan Coulon has hand-crafted a Wine Bar Menu to enhance the tasting experience. Unfortunately, these treats do not come out of a magical machine. Here’s a preview of Coulon’s wine inspired creations:
Blue Cheese Stuffed Dates – bacon wrapped, grated parmesean
Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza – garlic, mozzarella, white truffle oil
Duck Rillets – spread made of duck confit, garlic, and thyme
Macerated Grilled Peaches – fresh peaches macerated with lemon and thyme, grilled and served with lavender ice cream, lemon shortbread, and peach and thyme syrup
Belgian Chocolate Torte – layers of rich chocolate cake, chocolate meringue, chocolate mousse and chocolate cream
Located in the iconic Ivy Hotel in downtown San Diego, Ultra Lounge and Wine Bar is the new trendy must-try spot for wine enthusiasts with an affinity for upscale nightlife and dining. While there are many diverse wine bars in San Diego, no other venue combines the best of advanced technology and swanky ambiance with an unparalleled list of 80 wine fines.
Insider Tip: Load up a SmartCard and surprise your friends with a taste of your favorite wine on the way to dinner or the club.
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