Our 5 Favourite Wine Bars in Melbourne
Living in Australia’s gastronomic capital means we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to where to eat, drink and be merry. While us folk at Wine Compass like to spend our weekends getting out into the country to experience the breadth and beauty offered by many wonderful cellar doors at wineries around the state state, our weeknights are spend sipping on glasses in cosy nooks and corners around the city. There are many more to choose from, but if we had to pick, here’s our two cents on Melbourne’s best wine bars:
City Wine Shop
This wine bar has been in business for nearly 15 years, which is saying something when you consider the turnover of venues these days. City Wine Shop, which is owned by and run by the team behind the European (which is just next door), has become an institution. The space operates as both a retail shop and a quanty wine bar, boasting a solid list of Old and New World wines and a lovely selection of meats, cheeses and olives that you can snack on while you sit at the shop’s quaint, Euro-style tables on Spring Street.
Marion
Andrew McConnell has come to be known as the king of dining and drinking in Melbourne, so when he announced his plan to open Marion, a wine bar next door to his established Cutler and Co., the pressure was on. Sure enough, the restaurant did not disappoint. The dedicated wine bar has a relaxed yet indulgent atmosphere, and wine list and menu to match – both of which somehow seem to work for any occasion, at any time of day – brunch on the weekend with a glass of crémant, happy hour for a casual glass of crisp rosé, a swanky dinner with a fine bottle of Burgundy… whatever your agenda, Marion fits the bill. Their Deadman’s Dozen is also well worth exploring.
Each month, Marion releases the Deadman’s Dozen, a mixed selection of 12 wines from their list for purchase at a flat rate of $270 – a great way to try new wines you might not otherwise go for
Bar Liberty
This little venue (though it can house more than you think) really put approachable but quality wine bars back on the map – with Banjo Harris Plane at the helm (one of Australia’s current favourite somms/importers), the list is a real treat – a mix of Old World and New World with a great selection of Australian producers. It’s not too traditional, featuring up and coming winemakers doing fun and interesting things, as well as some funky drinks outside of the wine category. There is really something for everyone here. The food is also bang on (don’t skip the mussel dip crisps!).
Juliet
In the spirit of Melbourne’s secret nooks and crannies, Juliet is a cool modern yet comfy space below Little Bourke Street’s Punch Lane. The buzzing wine bar heroes female Aussie winemakers, which is something we’re more than happy to support. The food menu consists of a few cheeses and charcuterie, classic Raclette and a few mains, as well as a couple of desserts – this spot is an ideal place to end the night with a nibble of cheese and glass of Riesling, or their epic ‘Night Cap’ dessert.
Gerald’s Bar
Last but certainly not least, this joint is a favourite to many, particularly those who are lucky enough to be locals, and for good reason. Produce and wine rotate regularly, featuring whatever the guys behind the cosy wooden bar are loving at the moment, and whatever is in season. Describe what you feel like trying, and they will likely be able to muster up a glass to meet your needs.
Napier Quarter, above, is another great pick for wine bars in Melbourne
That’s just the tip of the iceberg. There are many other great wine bars in Melbourne, like Congress, Eva on Drummond and Napier Quarter, to name a few. It of course depends on the vibe you like and the wine you’re into, but we reckon the above 5 rarely disappoint.
Check out some more Melbourne wine and food with our list of the best events at the 2018 MFWF.
For more interesting wine stuff, follow us on:
- Best Wine With Steak: Pairings for Every Cut, Sauce, and Cooking Method - August 15, 2026
- The Best Way to Do a Yarra Valley Wine Day Trip from Melbourne - August 11, 2026
- Why Your Sense of Smell Is Essential for Enjoying Wine - August 1, 2026
thanks for writing a helpful blog but our first priority to clean city and houses https://ekoclean.com.au/end-of-lease-cleaning/
Thanks for Mentioning these bars, Gerald’s Bar is amazing, I will try other bars too.
Hi Adam, Thanks for sharing helpful information about bars.
https://sarosbardining.com.au/bar
I’ll give these bars a try. I appreciate you bringing up these bars.
Hey Nice post thanks for sharing: https://mohali.completehomes.in/
Your point of view caught my eye and was very interesting. Thanks. I have a question for you.
dgdgdf
Hey, viver em Melbourne, a capital gastronômica da Austrália, significa que estamos rodeados de opções incríveis para comer, beber e nos divertir. Embora gostemos de explorar as maravilhosas vinícolas da região, nossos finais de semana também são passados em bares de vinho acolhedores e charmosos na cidade. Se você está em busca dos melhores lugares para tomar um bom vinho, há muitos por onde escolher, mas se tivermos que escolher os nossos dois favoritos, já compartilhamos com você as nossas melhores dicas. Prepare-se para descobrir os cantinhos perfeitos para desfrutar de uma boa taça de vinho na cidade!
Melbourne truly has no shortage of amazing wine bars, and it’s great to see some local favourites being highlighted. I’ve been to City Wine Shop and loved the cozy European vibe, especially sitting outside with a cheese board. Marion also sounds perfect for a relaxed evening or even a fancy dinner. I didn’t know about Juliet before, but now it’s definitely on my must-visit list – I love the focus on female winemakers. Bar Liberty and Gerald’s Bar also sound really cool and unique.
What a fantastic guide. Melbourne truly is a wine lover’s paradise, and this list captures both the classic institutions and the hidden gems. I love how you highlight the unique atmosphere, curated wine lists, and delicious snacks each spot offers. It’s inspiring for anyone looking to explore the city’s vibrant wine scene, whether for a relaxed weeknight or a special celebration. Definitely bookmarking this for my next Melbourne wine adventure.
The list gave me some really good info about Melbourne’s wine bars. I didn’t know City Wine Shop has been around for 15 years, that’s a long time! Also, Juliet supporting women winemakers sounds very unique and special. Marion and Bar Liberty also look like great places to try with friends, each one has its own style and vibe. Reading this post taught me that Melbourne has so many options, not just for wine but also for food and atmosphere. Really helpful for planning outings.
Loved this list! Melbourne really is a gem when it comes to wine culture. I’ve been to a couple of these spots and they never disappoint. I appreciate how you’ve included a mix of vibes – from the cosy and quiet to the more lively bars. Definitely adding the rest to my must-visit list. Thanks for the great recommendations!
Great list! Melbourne really is a haven for wine lovers, and it’s amazing to have so many cosy spots in the city to unwind after work. I love that you highlighted both city wine bars and weekend trips to cellar doors — it really shows the diversity of the wine scene. Can’t wait to check out these spots on my next night out!”
Melbourne is full of great spots to relax and enjoy quality wine. Its cozy wine bars are perfect for unwinding after a busy day, and discovering hidden gems can make any weeknight feel special. Whether you’re tasting local wines or just soaking up the atmosphere, the city has plenty to offer wine lovers. If you’re in Melbourne, these top spots are definitely worth a visit.
The blog post shares recommendations for the best wine bars in Melbourne, highlighting the city’s vibrant food and drink scene. Living in Australia’s gastronomic capital means endless options for dining and enjoying drinks. While weekends are spent exploring wineries across the state, the post also focuses on the joy of sipping wine at cozy city spots. The article specifically mentions two of the top wine bars in Melbourne, offering an insider’s look at where to enjoy a great glass of wine after a busy week. For those looking to indulge in Melbourne’s wine culture, these spots are must-visit destinations for… Read more »