The Best Wine Bars in Hobart to Enjoy a Local Drop

For a little island, Tasmania has one of the biggest and best reputations in the world when it comes to wine. The cool climate, free from extremes , allows grapes to ripen slowly on the vine, helping them to develop intense flavours with a refreshing structure and balance. 

While a visit to some of the state’s wineries is a must-do for anyone exploring the Apple Isle, there are also numerous wine bars dedicated to showcasing the state’s best. 

From bustling CBD spaces to cool and cosy nooks, here are the wine bars in Hobart worth raising a glass to.

Lucinda Wine Bar

Sister to boundary-pushing restaurant Dier Makr, Lucinda Wine Bar has grown into a must-see destination in its own right, offering a treasure trove of by-the-glass specialty wines and an ever-changing menu of vino-friendly snacks that are “on until they’re not”. The perfect place to come for a drink and stay for the night, the seating often spills into the street for a friendly, neighbourhood feel. 

123 Collins Street, Hobart

Sonny 

Compact and cosy, Sonny is a must-visit for those seeking to experience the best of Hobart’s food and wine scene. With just 20 seats in a corridor-like room, Sonny serves up more than 45 varieties in a rotating menu, as well as seasonal dishes (their house-made pasta is a must-try) and elevated bar snacks. 

120a Elizabeth Street, Hobart

Institut Polaire

One of Tasmania’s coolest locales, Institut Polaire is a cold-climate wine bar and kitchen embracing the state’s long-held status as the gateway to Antarctica. With interiors featuring marble and plush grey leather, the seasonal menu shows off ethical produce from quality local growers, fishers, and farmers. The wine list is an Australian award winner, with over 100 drops to choose from, emphasising low-input, organic, biodynamic farming, and natural techniques. 

1/7 Murray Street, Hobart

Ogee

Euro-Italian vibes abound at this little corner shop, wine bar and bistro. With its simple honest food and wines, Ogee has quickly reached cult status among Hobart's slew of impeccable wine bars.

With 26 seats, Ogee encourages intimacy and conversation over a Gatsby style playlist, that parlays into '70s disco as the night discos down. Drop in for a glass of wine and a small plate or settle in for the evening to work your way through the perfectly curated menu and wine list.

374 Murray Street, North Hobart

Willing Brothers

With a lean toward the local, Willing Brothers is a classic neighbourhood wine bar with an infectious, no-fuss buzz offering an ever-changing menu of 15 to 20 by-the-glass drops. For those wanting a bottle, there are around 300 on the list, with artisanal beer and spirits also available. 

390 Elizabeth Street, North Hobart

La Sardina Loca 

Tucked away in Hobart’s CBD, La Sardina Loca (which literally translates to “the crazy sardine”) is one of the state’s premiere aperitivo bars. Slinging food and drinks that make both the owners, staff, and customers happy, the menu is influenced by Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine accompanied by an impressive local and domestic wine list.

100 Elizabeth Street, Hobart

Botanica Bar

Set amongst a transformed Georgian Sandstone Warehouse, Botanica Bar features the best of Hobart’s local distilleries, breweries, and delicacies. With an impressive list of locally produced Tasmanian wine, also a go-to spot for bottomless brunch on the weekends.

23 Salamanca Place, Battery Point

Looking to add a little extra culinary and cultural adventure to your stay in this southernmost city, after sipping your way around the best wine bars in Hobart? Make plans to explore Hobart's best markets or peruse the capital's best art galleries.