In Praise of Hillcrest’s Wine Bars

Once upon a time, wine was a special occasion drink, savored by the lucky few. But that was before its democratization, thanks to the popular movie, Sideways — and the emergence of the urban wine bar.

Wine bars, found most particularly in the great capitals of the world, signal that Hillcrest has reached a new plateau of sophistication. These are places where both the novice and the oenophile can sample wines in a welcoming atmosphere, so all serve a variety of wines for every taste and pocketbook. Nonetheless, as a wine buff once observed, life is too short to drink cheap wine.

Happily, our upscale neighborhood has more notable wine bars, in fact, than any other San Diego locale. My three favorites are The Wine Lover (full disclosure: I’m co-owner), Wine Steals and Amarin’s Just Wine.

The Wine Lover (3968 Fifth Avenue), elegant and urbane, glows like a jewel box at night. Wines, available by the taste, glass or bottle, are served by its knowledgeable staff. The Wine Lover prides itself on its extensive collection of California wines and on its green and shaded patio, a refuge from cares of the workday. Wine-to-go is also available.

Wine Steals (1243 University Avenue) has the relaxed atmosphere of a wine country tasting room. This large and informal room attracts an eclectic crowd ready to experience wine from around the world. Wine is available by the taste, glass or glass and is served indoors or on their patio.

Amarin’s Just Wine (now closed, 3843 Richmond Street) is a winsome spot, where a visitor quaffs wine in an antique-filled shop. Wine-to-go is also available. Like its compatriots, Just Wine is a delicious retreat from the exhaustion of urban life.

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Also in Hillcrest, enjoy the Wine Connection or Crush. (Both are located on the north side of University between Fifth and Seventh avenues.)