New York / May 1, 2010
Winederlust Rating (details below): 8.75 out of 10 / Winederlust Worthy: Yes
We only visit L.I.C. for two reasons – babies and backyards, but tonight we found another one. This petite bar right next to the (7) train subway entrance is reason enough to cross the filth of the Newtown Creek or venture towards the glow of the Pepsi sign like a wayward moth. There was a nice warm orange buzz from the dimmed incandescent lighting and strategically placed votives. We settled into our bar stools and perused the wine menu. It has a solid wine list – heavy on the French (no surprise) with an attentive and friendly barkeep who kept the conversation going and the crowd at a pleasant hum. Although we didn’t partake, the cheese plates looked divine with healthy portions of the main attraction and a variety of accoutrements (nuts, jams, and breads). To complement the drink and atmosphere, they normally stuff a few jazz musicians into the back corner for a supply of music throughout the week, but they hadn’t arrived just yet.
We focused in on a rosé from Provence (Costieres de Nimes L’hermitage 2005) and a red from the Languedoc. Liz found her slightly chilled glass a bit ho-hum, but we both thought the red was outstanding. If I remember correctly he said that it is a blend of Syrah, Carignan and Grenache typical for the appellation – full-bodied with strawberries and blueberries up front with little or no oak and a very earthy stony leathery back – like one good lick of a saddle after a dusty ride through the southern French plateau. My eyes strained to see the label stating it was a 2006 vintage from Pic Saint-Loup; Le Demoiselles de Lavabre from winemaker Oliver Bridel.
– J F Grossen, Chief Executive Oenophile
Winederlust Rating Details (out of 10):
Food: N/A (preparation, presentation & taste)
Wine: 9.0 (selection, recommendations, pairings & taste)
Service: 9.0 (helpfulness, attentiveness, knowledge & pacing)
Place: 8.5 (location, view, decor & vibe)
Price Range: $ (Cheap)
Essential Information:
Domaine Bar a Vins / 50-04 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City [map]
(7) Train to Vernon-Jackson
Direct Line: (718) 784-2350
Website: http://www.domainewinebar.com/
Open 7 Days 5:30 – ?
