The Richmond Wine Bar That Lets You Pour Your Own Bourbon

While a pour-your-own bourbon station may sound dangerous to some, at one Richmond establishment, the concept has taken a luxurious turn. Spanning 6,700 square feet and boasting an exhibition kitchen, outdoor bar, wood-burning fireplace, and a wine lounge that lets guests choose and pour from 24 different varieties of wine, one restaurant is taking hospitality to new heights with pour-your-own adventures.

Led by Chef Todd Johnson, who brings experiences from Wolfgang Puck's Spago Restaurant, Napa Kitchen and Wine offers recipes from the American West coast, with seafood, steaks, and salads to keep visitors well-fed as they taste different libations. 

True to the restaurant's name, the wine list at Napa Kitchen and Wine offers a generous pick of Californian blends that can be ordered by the glass, and for those wanting to improve their wine knowledge, the establishment hosts regular events like tastings and seminars to provide guests informed tasting experiences. 

For those who don't consider themselves wine connoisseurs, the cocktail and beer menu provides plenty of drink alternatives, with prohibition-era cocktails and martinis made with premium liquors and fresh juices. And of course, there's the bourbon.

"Our customers regularly request high-end bourbons and now we offer access to several premium brands that they may not normally find in the ABC store or other restaurants in the area," CEO and Founder Dennis Barbaro said of the offering. Guided cards help guests take notes on which labels they prefer as they take their pick and pour from the offered premium bourbons. 

To keep customers surprised and delighted, the offered selection of bourbon labels rotates, and brands such as Murray Hill Club, Bookers, W. L. Weller, Van Winkle, Buffalo Trace, Elijah Craig, Eagle Rare, Amador, and Catoctin Creek have been served at the station.

Charcuterie boards and seasonal appetizers can help keep your stamina high as you enjoy your tasting experiences, or if your belly is calling for more substance, you can take a bite out of a hand-cut Allen Brother's steak, pasta made with local ingredients, fresh seafood, or hand-rolled sushi. Whatever your culinary preference, you're certain to find your drink and dish of choice at this establishment.