Wine Bar
Unclaimed profileThe WineSellar & Brasserie
San Diego, CA · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
The WineSellar & Brasserie is a wine destination, holding a Wine Spectator Grand Award for 23 consecutive years. The climate-controlled storage facility, with lockers from 2 to 500 cases, supports a deep collection. Four wine clubs offer monthly selections and member pricing typically 10-40% below retail.
- What should I order?
- Focus on the wine list, which has earned a Grand Award for 23 years. Explore the wine clubs for monthly selections, or request a wine club flight if available. For cocktails, ask for the Manhattan, praised by a guest as 'killer'.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the Grand Award list and the storage facility. Collectors may find the locker rentals and club memberships appealing.
- When should I go?
- Visit during wine club events or tastings, which are likely to showcase the depth of the list. The venue is also recognized as a 'Power Lunch Hot Spot' by Zagat, suggesting a lively midday atmosphere.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Wine club memberships range from $40 per month for the WineSellar Club to $100 for the Gary Parker Collection, plus shipping and tax. Individual bottle prices are not available, but member pricing is typically 10-40% below retail.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The Wine Spectator Grand Award for 23 consecutive years sets this venue apart. The on-site climate-controlled storage, with lockers from 2 to 500 cases, is a unique feature, allowing guests to store and access their own collections. The wine clubs offer curated selections and member benefits.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
No first-party cocktail menu or pricing retrieved; dedicated cocktail pages returned 404.
Menu strengths
- — The Manhattan is praised by a guest as 'killer', indicating a well-executed classic.
Standout selections
- — Manhattan - a guest praised this cocktail made by staff member Sophie.
Pricing: No pricing evidence available.
Wine
Wine Spectator Grand Award for 23 consecutive years. Extensive climate-controlled storage with lockers from 2 to 500 cases. Four wine clubs offer monthly selections and member benefits including complimentary flights and discounted tastings.
Menu strengths
- — Wine Spectator Grand Award for 23 consecutive years.
- — Multiple wine clubs with member pricing below retail.
Standout selections
- — 2020 Champagne Deutz Brut Blanc de Blancs Millesime - 100% Chardonnay vintage Champagne with citrus and minerality.
- — 2020 Renato Ratti Barolo Marcenasco DOCG - garnet red with licorice and tobacco.
- — 2024 Michele Alois Caulino Falanghina Campania IGP - intense golden yellow with ripe fruit and sea breeze.
Pricing: Wine club memberships: WineSellar Club $40/month, Two Rouge Club $50-60/month, Gary Parker Collection ~$100/month, plus shipping and tax. Member pricing typically 10-40% below retail.
Spirits
No first-party spirits list or menu retrieved.
Menu strengths
- — The Manhattan cocktail suggests a curated spirits selection, including tequila.
Standout selections
- — Manhattan made with a specific tequila - a guest highlighted this cocktail.
Pricing: No pricing evidence available.
How it sits with the food
A guest praised the sommelier's wine pairings, noting they complemented the food choices. The wine list includes options like a 2020 Renato Ratti Barolo Marcenasco with licorice and tobacco, suitable for hearty dishes, and a 2020 Champagne Deutz Blanc de Blancs for lighter fare.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
Community reviews
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