Dilworth Tasting Room: The Wine Bar We Didn’t Know We Needed
It’s no secret Charlotte is overflowing with craft beer hot spots, but what about those of us who love a good glass of wine? Luckily, there’s Dilworth Tasting Room. As the new kid on the block, Dilworth Tasting Room brings a breath of fresh air to the QC drinking scene with an outstanding selection of wine, a delicious menu full of choices and quiet corners and couches to enjoy a conversation with friends — that you can actually hear.
Upon walking into Dilworth Tasting Room the vibe is warm, modest and friendly. While the wine and food selection is top-tier (we’ll get to that in a bit), there is no sense of intimidation when you can’t pronounce a certain wine or when you don’t know which cheese pairs best with a glass of Côtes du Rhône. Owner Jaffer Kovic and the staff will make you feel comfortable immediately.
The décor is minimalistic, but simply stunning. The bar, made of copper steel and mahogany, seats 17-18 people and is one of a kind with intricate metal work and wooded detail. The columns are also constructed with mahogany, as well as carriage bolt and angle iron. Perhaps one of the coolest aspects of the interior of Dilworth Tasting Room is that a majority of the renovations of the 2,800-square-foot space can be credited to Hase Kovic, the owner’s father — including the columns within the space, the bar and the wine racks. Among the metals and mahogany are red couches and navy booths that really stand out.
Apart from the gorgeous interior, Dilworth Tasting Room has an incredible patio with a garden and a copper-top outdoor courtyard bar (also built by Hase Kovic) that we are sure will be a go-to spot for Charlotteans this summer. It’s one of the main reasons we come back time and time again. It boasts a koi fish pond, soothing fountains and beautiful greenery. At night the party lights that hang from above only add to the relaxing ambiance.
Now, let’s get down to the good stuff — the wine and food. We’re far from wine experts, but luckily the staff is very accommodating in helping you figure out which wines you would like to try. Even if you can’t choose just one, there are wine flights — yes, finally a flight for us winos to enjoy! You can choose either three white wines for $18, or three red wines for $22. Whether you want champagne, whites, reds or something a little sweeter, there’s something for everyone— including beer drinkers, who will appreciate the solid list of beers from all over the world. Their selections are constantly changing, giving you even more of an excuse to frequently drop in.
When drinking wine, you can never go wrong with a charcuterie plate. We suggest getting the small plate, which includes one cheese and one meat. Our favorite combo to order is the manchego with chorizo.If you are watching your diet and don’t want to eat your weight in bread and cheese like the rest of us, there are definitely healthy options for you to choose from, such as the DTR Salad or a snack caddy with mixed nuts and olives.Dilworth Tasting Room is exactly what the South End/Dilworth area needed — a neighborhood bar with a simplistic and delicious menu and a killer wine list. The awesome patio doesn’t hurt either! Whether you are looking for a date night spot, somewhere to unwind after work, a laid-back, yet classy place to take your in-laws, or if you just need a night out with the girls, Dilworth Tasting Room is the place to go.Dilworth Tasting Room is located at 300 E. Tremont St., Charlotte NC 28203. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 1 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.
