Diverse, petite and oozing with charm, these award-winning wine bars use design to elevate them up a few echelons.

In no particular order, this list of decadent and delightful wine bars are all worthy of visiting to sit back and enjoy the design (and the wine).

Smalls by Fiona Lynch, Melbourne

Nestled in a laneway in South Melbourne, Smalls is a wine bar that is every bit as the name alludes… small. The scale of the space lends an intimate atmosphere and Fiona Lynch preferenced handcrafted detailing and joinery to elevate the design aesthetic. As an award-winning wine bar, the clients work with local boutique wine producers. Following this local track, Lynch also commissioned local artisans for different elements – handmade ceramic tiles and hand-stitched leather wall coverings to name a few.

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Charlie Parker’s by ACME&Co, Sydney

A dimly lit and moody space, paired with rich timbers, Charlie Parker’s in Sydney’s Paddington delivers a rich sense of nostalgia. More than a wine bar, Charlie Parker’s is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar that uses botanicals and infusions to create drinks of wonder. Although not set in a basement, the low ceiling height, weathered exposed beams and dark material palette add to the drama and intimate vibe.

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La Buvette Drinkery by Enoki, Adelaide

La Buvette Drinkery brings a decidedly French charm to Adelaide. Not exclusively a wine bar but showcasing French natural wines nonetheless, La Buvette’s design delivers classic old-world charm. Thonet stools and chairs, cursive hand lettering, imported French art and Yves Klein Blue splashes all come together in a fusion of all things so Frenchy, and it’s oh so chic.

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Marion by IF Architecture, Melbourne

One of many venues owned by Andrew McConnell, Marion wine bar is an elegant yet relaxed environment. Situated next to the well-known foodie restaurant Cutler + Co, Marion brings an extensive wine list and worn-in charm. Designed by IF Architecture, the floor plan at Marion is sliced through the middle with a wall. Banquette seating in an olive leather wraps the wall, while small, marble-topped tables create smaller seating arrangements.

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