Wine Down

Nothing wraps up the day like a nice glass of vino. From flashy hedonistic escapades to geeky watering holes, these new wine bars promise celebrated viniferous pours that will please even the most discerning of oenophiles

- Dawson Tan

ASIAN INVASION

VITIS

Jaan, Burnt Ends and the now‑defunct Corner House are just some of the award‑winning restaurants that Singaporean sommelier Gary Low worked at. Now, he has ventured out on his own with Vitis, his bold wager of a bar that spotlights Asian wines and winemakers. Dedicated to those who seek the unfamiliar in their viniferous journey, the debuting wine list, anchored in the diverse terroirs in Asia as well as trailblazing Asian winemakers and producers across the world, is 250‑strong and expected to double in size by the end of the year. On it are the likes of the prestigious Long Dai cabernet blend from Shandong, China—dubbed “the China Lafite”; Vinvie Itoguchi, an aromatic white blend from Nanshin, Japan; and a peculiar sangiovese bianco from Fratelli Wines in Sandhan Valley, India. The space, designed by acclaimed interior designer Emma Maxwell, feels understatedly luxurious, with Devialet speakers parked at every imaginable corner, and a discreet private room that seats up to eight guests. From the kitchen, Burnt Ends alumnus chef Kenneth Lim presents a lip‑smacking series of Asian tapas, including hits such as the chutoro tart, as well as sharing plates such as kicap manis (sweet soya sauce) short ribs and even Cantonese‑style steamed fish.

FRENCH CONNECTION

LE CLOS