Historic Arcade, Predictable Pours
Downtown · Asheville · Wine Bar · Visit Website ↗
Updated March 2026
Reviewed by the RagingWine Tasting Desk · February 21, 2026
RagingWine reviewed Grove Arcade Wine Bars’s wine list and gave it The Reliable — RagingWine’s Vibe-Check rating. How RagingWine reviews wine lists →
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Wingman Metrics
The Grove Arcade itself is stunning—a 1929 landmark with that old Asheville charm. But the wine program feels like it's playing it safe for tourists passing through. The list leans heavily on recognizable labels at prices that make you think twice.
What we're seeing here is a greatest-hits collection: California Cabs, a Willamette Pinot, some Malbec, maybe a Sancerre if you're lucky. It's the kind of list built for people who want something familiar after a day of shopping craft goods in the arcade. There's minimal regional diversity—no deep cuts from Spain, no Jura, no skin-contact anything. It does the job, but it doesn't take risks. For a town like Asheville with its adventurous food scene, this feels like a missed opportunity.
The glass program runs about 8-10 selections, rotating seasonally but not frequently. You'll find a Spanish Albariño, a Russian River Chardonnay, maybe a Côtes du Rhône for reds. Nothing offensive, nothing exciting. Pours are standard 5oz, prices hover around $12-16, which tracks for the arcade's foot traffic model.
Domaine Tournon 'Mathilde' Crozes-Hermitage — $48
Northern Rhône Syrah that drinks above its weight class—peppery, structured, and fairly priced for what it is
Tramin Gewürztraminer Alto Adige
Most people skip Gewürz thinking it's too sweet, but this Alpine version is dry, floral, and perfect with the arcade's charcuterie boards
Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon
At $120+ on this list, it's a 3x markup for a wine you can find at every steakhouse—spend that money elsewhere
Montinore Pinot Noir Willamette Valley + Charcuterie & Cheese Board
Oregon Pinot's bright acidity and red fruit cut through rich cured meats while playing nice with aged cheddar
The Bottom Line
Grove Arcade Wine Bars gets the job done if you're already in the building, but it's not a wine destination. Fair for a casual glass, steep for anything serious.
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