More than wine at Torquay’s newest wine bar

Nestled in the heart of Torquay’s main street is one of the town’s newest and only wine bars.

Torquay Wine Store owners Mick and Sarah Dowling have set out to create a unique experience, where their clientele can choose from around 400 carefully selected wines, more than 80 beers, ciders and seltzers to drink in their relaxed wine bar, or to stock up to take home. There’s also beer on tap and a great cocktail list with the classics well represented.

Opening to the public in December 2021, the husband-and-wife duo endeavoured to create a warm and inviting venue.

The industrial-styled interior paired with warmer tones and beautiful reclaimed timber features create a cosy yet sophisticated feel to the Gilbert Street venue. But it is the access to wine professionals which sets apart the Torquay Wine Store.

Mick’s expansive knowledge comes from around 20 years of experience in the industry, during which time he’s sold wines across every segment of the market from $10 a bottle to over $30,000.

He says the idea behind the Torquay Wine Store was about creating a relaxed, unpretentious environment where people can get great wines and beers with staff who are passionate and educated on hand to help.

“People just want a nice glass of wine and a good time,” Mick said.

Torquay Wine Store carries a great selection of local wines and boasts a wide range of Australian and International wines from both iconic producers, to some of Mick’s favourite small wine makers.

“There is no other bar anywhere on the Surf Coast where you can come in and pick from 400 wines,” he said

“It is the biggest list on the Surf Coast.”

The duo say the best part about being a bar and a retailer is being able to provide access to amazing wines and a great space to run events, including tastings, wine education evenings, and wine dinners.

They’ve also just launched a monthly wine subscription, delivered free to 3228 post codes, all hand picked by Mick with tasting and cellaring notes.

After six successful months in business, the couple say they are most proud of the way in which their Gilbert St venue has become a meeting place for locals.

“We only take walks-ins so you can pop in for a quick drink or linger if you prefer. You’ll probably see someone you know, and if not, Mick’s always up for a chat,” said Sarah.

“We’ve got some great regulars and have made some great friends so far.

“There are other bottle shops in town but if you want something different, are looking for something special, or you want advice about what to buy, or to drink then this is the place to come.”

Great wines love great food and you can’t mention Torquay Wine Store without mentioning the menu.

It’s designed to work with the wines and allows flexibility whether you want something small like a cheese plate or some charcuterie, or something more substantial like Pork & Fennel Meatballs or their large Sharing Plate. There’s also specials that come and go depending on the season.

“We love Torquay, and we’re really proud of what we’ve created”, Mick added, “and it’s gratifying to see the locals enjoying it as much as we are.”