Terroir

East Village, New York – A charming combination of intense wine knowledge and tongue-in-cheek geek humor awaits wine lovers at Terroir, a cozy twenty-four-seat wine bar run by the owners of the nearby intimate Hearth restaurant.

Billing itself as “the elitist wine bar for everyone,” this tiny space does indeed offer an unpretentious and inviting respite from the typical artsy wine bar.

A sleek and simple décor of polished light wood and gunmetal gray barstools adds to the relaxing vibe, as groups of hip young financial types, couples, and East Villagers gather at the bar or the single long table to peruse the huge menu of global selections.

The drink-filled tome is ripe with witty and sarcastic jokes that combine wine and pop culture, including gems like the comparison of a Riesling’s acidity with Lady Gaga or the White Wine in a Box song dedicated to Lindsay Lohan, à la Justin Timberlake’s SNL Digital Short.

Knowledgeable bartenders are happy to offer advice and samples to help lost patrons find the perfect glass to go with the Italian nibbles prepared in the open kitchen.

While communal seating encourages friendly banter among patrons, the soft music and low lighting is better suited for romantic dates or groups of friends out for after-work drinks.

And in keeping with its own name – which refers to the environment in which a vine is grown – Terroir gives an amusing nod to its neighborhood by offering specials like Heavy Metal Night, when it features iron-rich wines.

Boasting a quirky, good-natured atmosphere and a fantastic selection, Terroir is a must for both connoisseurs and neophytes looking for good wine without the attitude.    ← read less