This is definitely a place we'd like to visit again when we're in Sonoma.
We sat at the bar. Â The ambiance is comforting, intimate, light, and was just what we needed to relax. Â We ordered a couple of wines (from S. America -- they had many from all around the world), as well as dinner (I got the gnocci della nona, he ordered pappardelle alla anatra, with affogato al cafe), and were very pleased.
Perfect wine bar. We (6 beautiful women) were turned away at a wine bar on the square, so we decided to head back to Della Santinas to beg for a dinner reservation...while we were waiting, we plopped ourselves down at the bar at Enoteca, and it was a FABULOUS choice!! Â We had a bottle of Schramsberg BDB ($35) and had the bartenders take our picture with all of the cool wine bottles behind us... it was a fabulous experience, I would be back in a second if I lived closer! Obviously it can get cramped in there pretty quick, but I think its worth it!! Great place.
Review Source:A very nice spot, I stopped in with a friend on a weekday afternoon while on vacation so the place was pretty empty. We sat at the bar and did a wine tasting, a nice selection of wines, the server was friendly without being overly chatty which was great. He made us up a nice little plate with some meats, cheese, bread and preserves to snack on. It was a great place to make a pit stop on our day in Sonoma.
Review Source:Wine tasting right next to a killer restaurant, the only thing that helps them is having Della santina in the name. I didn't have the greatest experience with the lady that was there, she wasn't very nice and seemed to judge me because I am younger; I guess she thought I didn't know anything and probably wouldn't buy either.. but that's not always the case.
They are not really Sonoma County supporters. Most of their wines are from all over the world. It's disappointing to not see many Sonoma County wineries listed, or any all.. I mean I get the idea; it's cheaper to buy imports but it would be nice if they supported the local wineries. Isn't that what locals do? So this place is over priced, (they buy imports so they can mark em up.. ) some good wines, somethings I definately would drink and have looked for but I'd never buy from them when I can either find it cheaper at the Valley Wine shack Or have them order it for me. Also, there is another place down the street: Sonoma Enoteca and they have much more of a local selection.
Although local Sonomans wouldn't consider me a local yet....I have lived in Sonoma for five years. And the Enoteca is exactly what we needed! I enjoy the casual atmosphere and variety of wines, my husband, a winemaker, loves trying wines that he can't find elsewhere. It does get a bit crowded on weekends, but you can always strike up a conversation with people visiting Sonoma. Their wines by the glass are reasonably priced and if you buy a bottle there to open, a percentage of the corkage goes to our local animal shelter. (Plus you can see it in the indie movie, Bottleshock). Hands down the best place on the square with the friendliest employees!
Review Source:Enoteca is what every wine bar should be.
It's charming. Nestled in a tiny historic building with a great decor and beautiful copper-accented bar.
It's adventurous. It knows its in the Sonoma Valley but it doesn't over play those wines. They've got something from everywhere. Always wanted to taste a Malbec made by a winemaker of South American decent. They've probably got it. Their collection is that extensive.
It's reasonable. You can spend a little or a lot. Drink a little or a lot. And even have some cheese or sweets at the same time.
It's well-staffed. The staff are friendly and smart. But they don't rub it in your face if you're not a hard-core wino with a PhD in all things grape.
And it's not just a wine bar. They've started doing wine and dinner pairings with restaurants around the Plaza. They're a pricey prospect. $125 for the last one I heard about. But you're not likely to match the experience or wine anywhere else!
Enoteca is great place to stop if you're 1)strolling around the Plaza and in need of refreshment 2)want a wine that isn't made in Sonoma Valley 3)are waiting for a table at Rins, Della Santina's, or Cafe La Haye (they'll actually come get you when you're table's ready) 4)are on a first date and want something original to do 5)want a grown-up classy place to hang out.
LOVE them.
We wandered in here on a whim  after seeing they were open late (YES) and we had the *best* time. Â
Really helpful, friendly staff... great list... great selection of wines to purchase... Â lovely setup... Â Really, I cannot say enough good things about them. Â
They are small, wishing to expand, only open 4 months and really doing well. Â Gets very busy on Friday and Saturday nights and they also only serve dessert and cheese so plan accordingly....
Just one more reason for me to go to Sonoma more often. Â Â Do give them a visit the next time you are in town. Â I hear their sister restaurant is great as well.