If you’re a wine enthusiast and you’re planning a trip to Bali, you might wonder where you can find the best wine. Luckily, Bali has a growing wine culture, and there are plenty of wine shops to explore. Whether you’re in Seminyak, Ubud, or Nusa Dua, you’re sure to discover some fantastic wine stores and cellars. Let’s take a closer look at Bali’s wine scene, its history, culture, and some of the top wine shops across the island.
Exploring Bali’s Wine Scene
Bali’s winemaking industry started only in the early 2000s, with the first winery, Hatten Wines, in Sanur. Since then, several wineries have emerged across Bali, producing a variety of wines that range from dry whites and reds to sweet dessert wines. Bali’s warm and sunny climate, fertile soil, and humid air offer ideal conditions for growing grapes. The island’s vineyards, mostly in the north and east regions, grow French, Italian, and local grape varieties like Alphonse-Lavallee and Belgia.
A Brief History of Wine in Bali
Bali’s wine history can be traced back to the 16th century when the Dutch and Portuguese arrived on the island and brought with them grapevines from Europe. However, the vineyards did not survive due to the island’s humidity and pests. It was not until the 1980s when a group of expatriates planted grapes in Bali for their personal consumption, sparking the resurgence of Bali’s wine culture.
Today, Bali’s wine industry is thriving, with a growing number of wineries and vineyards producing high-quality wines. In addition to Hatten Wines, some of the other notable wineries in Bali include Sababay Winery, Plaga Wine, and Two Island Wines. Each winery offers unique wine-tasting experiences, allowing visitors to sample different wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Understanding Bali’s Wine Culture
Bali’s wine scene is still relatively young, but it’s growing fast. There’s a growing number of Bali-based sommeliers, wine journalists, and wine clubs that promote local and international wines. Bali celebrates its wine culture with several wine-related events throughout the year, such as the annual Bali Wine Festival and wine tastings at hotels, restaurants, and wine shops.
One of the unique aspects of Bali’s wine culture is its fusion of traditional Balinese culture with modern winemaking techniques. For example, some wineries use traditional Balinese herbs and spices in their wines, creating unique flavor profiles that reflect the island’s culture and history.
Another interesting aspect of Bali’s wine scene is its focus on sustainability and eco-friendliness. Many wineries in Bali use organic and biodynamic farming practices to minimize their environmental impact and produce high-quality, natural wines. Some wineries even use solar power and rainwater harvesting to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and freshwater sources.
Overall, Bali’s wine scene offers a unique and exciting experience for wine enthusiasts and travelers alike. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, Bali’s wineries and vineyards are sure to impress with their beautiful landscapes, delicious wines, and rich cultural heritage.
Top Wine Shops in Seminyak
Seminyak has been one of Bali’s top destinations for shopping, dining, and entertainment. In addition to its beautiful beaches and luxurious resorts, Seminyak is also home to several top-rated wine shops that offer a wide range of local and international wines, from affordable to premium labels. These shops provide excellent service and expert advice on wine selection and food pairing, making them a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Vin+ Wine & Beyond
Vin+ Wine & Beyond is a wine retailer, bistro, and bar located at the heart of Seminyak. This shop boasts an extensive collection of over 18,000 local and international wines, from classic and rare vintages to new labels. Whether you’re looking for a bold red wine to pair with your steak dinner or a crisp white wine to enjoy on a hot day, Vin+ Wine & Beyond has got you covered. In addition to its impressive wine selection, the shop also offers cheese and charcuterie platters, tapas, and main dishes to pair with the wines. The bistro and bar area is a great place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine with friends or family.
Red & White
Red & White is a wine store located on Jalan Petitenget in Seminyak. This shop offers wines from all over the world, including a great selection of Indonesian wines. The staff at Red & White are knowledgeable and friendly, eager to help you find the perfect wine for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a special bottle to celebrate a milestone or a budget-friendly option for a casual dinner at home, Red & White has something for everyone. The shop also provides free delivery service to Seminyak, Kerobokan, and Canggu areas for a minimum purchase, making it a convenient option for those who prefer to shop from home.
Corner House
Corner House is another wine store and bistro located on Jalan Petitenget. This shop offers over 400 labels of wine, beer, and spirits, including organic and biodynamic wines. The shop’s rustic interior and outdoor seating area make it a cozy spot to enjoy a glass of wine and some bites. Whether you’re in the mood for a bold red wine, a crisp white wine, or a refreshing rose, Corner House has something to suit your taste. The shop also offers a range of small plates and sharing plates, perfect for pairing with your wine selection.
Overall, Seminyak’s wine shops offer a diverse and impressive selection of wines from around the world, along with knowledgeable staff and excellent service. Whether you’re a seasoned wine drinker or a curious beginner, these shops are definitely worth a visit during your stay in Seminyak.
Best Wine Stores in Ubud
Ubud is Bali’s cultural hub, offering an array of art galleries, temples, museums, and green landscapes. Ubud also has several wine shops that can satisfy your wine cravings while soaking up the Balinese culture. These wine shops offer a broad spectrum of wines, from Balinese to international varieties. If you’re in Ubud, don’t miss these top wine stores:
Hatten Wines
Hatten Wines is Bali’s first winery, located in Sanur. The winery produces a range of award-winning wines, including the popular white wine, Tunjung Asri, and the fruity red wine, Jepun Bali. Hatten Wines also opened a wine shop in Ubud, showcasing their wines alongside a range of imported wines. You can take a wine tour at the winery and learn about the winemaking process while tasting different wines.
What sets Hatten Wines apart from other wineries is its dedication to using local Balinese grapes in its wines. The winery works closely with local farmers to source the best grapes and ensure sustainable farming practices. Additionally, Hatten Wines is committed to reducing its carbon footprint by using solar panels to power its operations.
Rondji Restaurant & Wine Cellar
Rondji Restaurant & Wine Cellar is located on Jalan Raya Sanggingan in Ubud. This shop offers an extensive wine list, including over 300 bottles from all over the world, from France, Italy, Chile to Australia. The restaurant provides an intimate and romantic ambiance, with an outdoor seating area overlooking the rice fields.
In addition to its impressive wine selection, Rondji Restaurant & Wine Cellar also offers a diverse menu of Indonesian and Western cuisine. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both flavorful and sustainable. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty steak or a spicy curry, Rondji Restaurant & Wine Cellar has something to satisfy your appetite.
Bridges Bali
Bridges Bali is a fine-dining restaurant located on Jalan Raya Campuhan in Ubud. This restaurant features an award-winning wine cellar that holds over 350 different labels of wine, from classic to exotic varieties. Bridges Bali’s wine list is curated by the in-house sommelier, who can guide you in pairing wines with the restaurant’s fusion cuisine. The restaurant also emphasizes sustainable and organic wines, and most of their wines are biodynamic or organic certified.
Bridges Bali is not just a place to enjoy great wine and food, but also a hub for cultural events and activities. The restaurant hosts regular art exhibitions, live music performances, and cooking classes, giving visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Balinese culture. Additionally, Bridges Bali is committed to supporting local communities and works closely with local artisans and farmers to source ingredients and materials for its dishes and decor.
Wine Shopping in Nusa Dua
Nusa Dua is Bali’s upscale resort area, known for its luxury hotels, fine dining, and beautiful beaches. While Nusa Dua is not as abundant with wine shops as the other areas, there are still some wine boutiques to explore. These wine shops often feature a selection of imported wines, as well as some local bottles. Check out these wine shops in Nusa Dua:
Kayumanis Wine Boutique
Kayumanis Wine Boutique is located in Kayumanis Nusa Dua Private Villa & Spa. This wine boutique offers a range of international wines, from French champagne to Australian shiraz. Kayumanis Wine Boutique also provides wine tasting sessions and wine pairing dinners for guests.
At Kayumanis Wine Boutique, you can indulge in a luxurious wine tasting experience that will leave your taste buds tingling. Their knowledgeable staff will guide you through the intricacies of wine tasting, teaching you about the different aromas, flavors, and textures of each wine. You can also book a private wine pairing dinner, where you can savor delicious food and wine combinations in a romantic setting.
The Cellardoor
The Cellardoor is a wine shop and bar located in the Bali Collection mall in Nusa Dua. This shop features a selection of over 500 bottles of wine, from the old world to the new world regions. The Cellardoor also offers by-the-glass wine service and tapas snacks, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day at the beach.
At The Cellardoor, you can enjoy a glass of your favorite wine while nibbling on delicious tapas snacks. Their extensive wine list includes rare and hard-to-find bottles, as well as popular favorites. The friendly staff will help you choose the perfect wine to suit your taste and preferences.
Two Islands Wine Lounge
Two Islands Wine Lounge is located in the Bali National Golf Club in Nusa Dua. This wine lounge offers a range of international wines, spirits, and cocktails, as well as a tapas menu. Two Islands Wine Lounge also showcases live music performances and events.
At Two Islands Wine Lounge, you can relax and enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the beautiful views of the golf course. The lounge has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening or a night out with friends. You can also catch live music performances by local artists, adding to the overall ambiance of the place.
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just enjoy a good glass of wine, these wine shops in Nusa Dua are definitely worth a visit. With their wide selection of wines, knowledgeable staff, and inviting atmosphere, you’re sure to have a memorable wine shopping experience.
Conclusion
As you can see, Bali is not just a destination for sun, sand, and sea. It’s also a place where you can explore a growing wine culture and discover some fantastic wines. From Seminyak to Ubud and Nusa Dua, Bali has plenty of wine stores that cater to different tastes and budgets. Make sure to check out some of these wine shops when you’re in Bali, and who knows, you might find your new favorite bottle!
