Until recently, I didn’t know very much about wine. My friends used to tease me for choosing a bottle based on how pretty the label was. But thanks to a sister who recently moved to California ‘wine country’ and the Julie Wine Bar in Malmö, I’m getting a great education.
Tucked away in the city’s charming Gamla Västra neighbourhood, this cozy Swedish wine bar named for artisan Beaujolais vintner Julie Balagny is easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. Balagny is famous for her “bio-dynamic” approach to winemaking and the knowledgeable staff at Julie honor that ethic in the way they serve it.
This award-winning wine bar is focused on ecological wines from small, quality-driven vineyards that prioritise the environment. Julie does not maintain a traditional wine list but instead curates a well-stocked wine room that is constantly changing to offer up new experiences. They also have 14 climate-smart wines “on tap,” either by the glass or carafe. Open tastings are held every Wednesday.
And then there’s the cheese. I’m kind of obsessed with goat cheese and Julie does not disappoint on that front. But whatever the source of the milk (cow, sheep or goat), the animals involved are grass-fed and free-range. There’s a tasty selection of charcuterie and accompaniments to enjoy with the wine, all ecologically sourced.
To keep the atmosphere light and casual, Julie does not accept reservations, so plan to arrive early if you’re interested in their Sunday Brunch featuring Swiss raclette and Caesar Salad.
