If you haven’t discovered one of the best selections of local wines in the Gotico area of Barcelona, then you’re missing out on Zona d’Ombra’s “raison d’être”.
Located steps away from the original Jewish Quarter of Barcelona, and the smallest official intersection in Barcelona (Call and Martlet), Zona d’Ombra has the historic heart of the area, with original stone walls dating back several hundred years. That, along with the matching decor of woods and iron make it a cozy place to hang any time of year, especially after a long beach day or during one of the winter storms.
Edwin and Karen are quietly two of the most knowledgeable people in the Barcelona wine scene. What I love about both of them is they adore wine, but aren’t interested in all the public accolades that many in the business are chasing, nor are they that interested in self promotion. They’re all about promoting good wines to those who come through their doors. I’ve learned so much from both of them about technical aspects of wine since I started spending time there three years ago and for that I’m always grateful!
Zona d’Ombra is both a wine shop, and a wine bar. They have a broad selection of wines by the glass with a set menu, led by my personal favourite, Font de la Figurea from Clos Figueras, a bold Priorate blend from the Gratallops area. Plus, they have a rotating weekly list of reds, whites and sparkling selections you can enjoy on top of their set list.
Of course with every wine bar comes a selection of Catalan tapas to compliment the wines, and their selection of meats, cheeses, and “pan con tomate” is punctuated by local and quality partners. My recommend is the oven-warmed provolone (with either peppers, ham, or tomato) which can be drizzled onto toasted bread. I also loved their stuffed peppers, to go along with Font de la Figuera.
Now then, the BIG secret, is one that separates them from other wine shops and wine bars. Instead of having a wine list marked up double (as per typical), you can pick ANYTHING off the shop shelves and enjoy right then and right there for a corkage of just under 5€. No shit. Retail priced bottle of any wine, plus a corkage, and you can enjoy a couple of bottles of fine wine, rather than one. Let’s just say that there’s been several occasions where an hour meeting has turned into an afternoon of enjoyment. Just look at my Instagram feed for details… lol.. or the gallery above.
Zona d’Ombra also does live music, has many local tour guides and also sommeliers leading wine tastings at their location, due to its centrality and also the quality of their tapas and wines. Let’s just say, that if you find yourself staring at the Barcelona City Hall, and want to enjoy a tipple of wine, walk 5 minutes over to Zona d’Ombra and tell them we sent you. You won’t be disappointed.