While travelling I am constantly dismayed at the food and beverage options in smaller, local airports- especially on the west coast. Happily it seems the plight of (as my colleague put it) “fake pizza smell” joints may be on the decline. Example: I had my first Vino Volo experience the other night, inside the Oakland Airport.
Vino Volo’s wine bar/ small plates concept might just make those delayed Southwest flights a little more bearable…
The woman we talked to at this Vino Volo location (thanks, Susannah!) was helpful, enthusiastic, and knew a lot about the wines. This is something you’re not guaranteed to find in any wine bar- airport or not. We ordered a glass of the Domaine de Brin Gaillac– a blend of 40% Duras, 25% Braucol, 20% Syrah and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. This little number was perky with acidity, had a nice backbone of black fruits and plum- and according to Susannah, had also been a recent choice of Drew Barrymore when she passed through the terminal earlier that week. Fantastic!
I watched a businesswoman travelling solo order a glass of white wine with a small salad. There were also a couple of guys in suits working together over glasses of Napa Valley Cabernet. I like this concept because it’s simple- a few choices of wine-friendly menu items, a comprehensive wine list, and if you need to pick up a gift on your way to wherever you’re going, they have a retail license too. Another nice touch- a comprehensive tasting note accompanies your glass of wine (with retail pricing). Perfect for those of us who have trouble remembering what we had to drink…
The wine geek in me also loves the fact that this could mean a few more people might enjoy a glass of wine instead of a Coors Light during their layover.
Bravo, Vino Volo!