It seems like just last year Park Circle had zero wine bars. Well, as of today, it has two. Joining Park Circle’s Accent on Wine, Stems and Skins officially opens at 1070 East Montague Ave. today.
Stems and Skins continues the upscale trend started by it’s next door neighbor Lotus, which opened in the fall. Both are clear bets on Park Circle’s continued growth as apartments and new homes spring up across the area.
Promising “Fresh and Freaky Ferments,” Stems and Skins’ wine list features rotating selections curated by former Husk sommelier Matt Tunstall with plenty of red, white, and sparkling as well as ciders, sherries, and even vermouths. You’ll also find a $5 draft white wine, a solid Spanish Verdejo when we stopped in yesterday, and a secret cheap champagne list (you didn’t hear it from us.) Tunstall says many of his ferments come from small batches, so expect to see plenty of variety in what’s available night-to-night. A cocktail list and rotating draft beer selection are also available.
Matt and his wife Angie will man the bar each night and serve small plates and cheeses, including distinctly-Euro canned seafood offerings. Last night’s sample menu featured tuna and sardine crostinis, a charred octopus salad, and a salty-savory anchovy butter spread. Take a look at the chalkboard on the wall for what’s available when you stop in.
Inside, Stems and Skins is full of quirky, fun touches: Silverware rolls can be found inside that cigar box on your table, the night’s list is bolted to a crafty clipboard of laminated album covers. Stick around and you might even witness a champagne sabering.
Stems and Skins will be open from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily.
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