Amid May’s delightful Spring weather, the allure of a sun-drenched indulgence in seasonal wines calls. This month we look toward the bustling heart of downtown Denver’s Union Station. This architectural marvel serves as the nexus of transit, culture, culinary delight, and a solid glass of vino.
Over the past 15 years, Union Station has witnessed a remarkable renaissance, evolving into a dynamic space. Join us as we uncover three uniquely enticing destinations to taste outstanding wines by the glass. It’s all at Union Station, a sanctuary where sipping and strolling seamlessly blend into an art form.
Terminal Bar
Inside Union Station the latest renovations are underway, but luckily that hasn’t affected Terminal Barl, located right inside. Though not extensive, Terminal Bar’s wine selections thoughtfully homage to the noble grapes of classic wine regions. Most travel buffs can agree the options exceed what’s often available at most public transit watering holes.
Indulge in a happy hour pour of sauvignon blanc with vermentino from the sun-soaked vineyards of the South of France. Priced at a modest $7.00 per glass, it’s an invitation to enjoy a moment of decadence without breaking the bank. It’s the epitome of low-commitment luxury and a sip that tantalizes the taste buds without demanding too much contemplation.
Whether you’re just finishing the work day, awaiting the arrival of loved ones on the train, or embarking on a night of exploration in the city, Terminal Bar beckons as the perfect place to pause and savor the moment before making your next move. A spot on the patio also offers a delightful place to take in the scenery and people watch.
Visit Terminal Bar daily from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. 1701 Wynkoop St., Denver, terminalbardenver.com
Sunday Vinyl
All aboard Sunday Vinyl, located on the platform at Union Station. Boasting an ever-evolving selection of wines available by the glass or half glass, this somm-centric Denver gem has become a space where wine novices and committed enthusiasts alike can discover wines selected by some of the city’s most esteemed wine professionals. It’s the perfect place to transport yourself into an array of intriguing wine styles and varieties.
“We’re always on the hunt for classic wines, old-school staples, or things that we think will become great classics in the future,” said lead sommelier Clara Klein.
The current menu showcases delectable offerings such as the savory Iberico Pork Secreto with Piquillo pepper purée and Sherry Gastrique. This culinary delight harmonizes beautifully with a side-by-side tasting featuring a classic red and an innovative white. Here, guests are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and embark on a journey of palate exploration.
For example, the barrel-fermented 2019 Verdejo by Ossian Estate Winery is a standout pour sourced from 100-year-old organic vines in Castilla y Leon, Spain. This sophisticated white wine perfectly balances fruit, spice, and saline notes, making it an ideal companion for seafood dishes.
For those seeking a taste of tradition with a touch of maturity, Sunday Vinyl presents a rare opportunity to enjoy a classic-style wine with over a decade of aging. The “Bosconia” Tempranillo blend from R. Lopez de Heredia, hailing from the esteemed Rioja region and crafted from the 2012 vintage, offers a nuanced palate featuring dried floral and caramel notes atop a canvas of red berries, courtesy of its time spent in oak barrels and bottle.
Visit Sunday Vinyl daily from 4:30 to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 3:30 to 9:30 p.m. 1803 16th Street Mall, Denver, sundayvinyl.com
Ultreia
At the front of the station, just steps from Terminal Bar, Ultreia beckons for date night, meeting a friend, or a solo visit. The menu features hot and cold tapas, cured meats, and an array of wine, sherry, and gin and tonics. An excellent setting for experimenting with new flavors, the restaurant has been a staple of the transit hub since 2017.
One of the exclusive privileges of dining at Ultreia comes from the opportunity to savor a variety of wines from the renowned winemaker Raúl Pérez. This legendary producer, hailing from Bierzo, Spain, has dedicated decades to crafting unique, limited-production wines, many of which are crafted from the mencia grape. A visit to Ultreia is a chance to indulge in the fruits of his labor.
The 2019 Ultreia Saint Jacques, currently offered by the glass, is a flavor-packed wine with layers of rich red fruit, notes of savory herbs, elegant florals, and present but restrained oak influences. A few slices of shaved Jamon Iberico make for a classic pairing. During happy hour, bacon-wrapped dates served two at a time create a wonderfully complex flavor combination with this wine.
Visit Ultreia Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. 1701 Wynkoop Street, #125, ultreiadenver.com
