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Since opening a few years back in Farringdon and spreading its vines across the capital to several other sites, Vinoteca has done more than most to make good wine accessible to all of London.
This outpost, just off the chain-heavy Chiswick High Road, is one of five in its mini-empire and continues the USP of selling up to 300 varieties (in-house and as a takeaway service) in a refreshingly unpretentious way.
It has to be said that it’s a bit of a poky space, with a slender front room set up for dining, and a rear space with high stools and tables for a handful of drinkers who can watch the chefs sweating away in the tiny open-plan kitchen, if that’s your kind of thing.
For those who think wine comes in two varieties (red or white) the menu can seem a bit daunting to begin with, but amiable staff will help you navigate the pages and each course on the food menu is helpfully matched to a suitable tipple. Glasses start from a few quid a pop, with bottles from just under £20 (there are plenty in the blow-out category), and dishes like the crimson bavette steak with chunky chips and watercress never fail to please.
Forget naff wine bars of the past: Vinoteca shows London has come along way when it comes to appreciating the better sort of bottle.