A Taste of Wine Bar George

Wine Bar George is one of the most highly anticipated additions to the vibrant food and beverage scene at Disney Springs. This 200-seat wine bar, scheduled to open soon, is centrally located at The Landing. The space is reminiscent of a winemaker’s home, complete with terrace seating that has sweeping views of Disney Springs and the waterfront stage.

Wine Bar George will offer more than 130 selections by the ounce, glass, and bottle in a range of varietals, vintages, and prices. Acclaimed wineries as well as up-and-coming growing regions and wineries will be featured along with small plates, artisan cheese and charcuterie boards, and sharable entrées designed to complement the wine list.

The biggest reason for all the excitement is George Miliotes himself – renown wine expert, native Floridian, and Disney alum. A celebrity in the wine world, George is a Master Sommelier – one of only 249 in the world. In fact, Wine Bar George is the only wine bar in Florida owned by a Master Sommelier.

We gladly accepted the invitation from George to stop by his home to taste (and sip!) some of the highlights from Wine Bar George. Executive Chef Ron Rupert, who will be at the helm of all things culinary at Wine Bar George, also joined us. My partner, Alex Dunlap, captured some shots of what will be offered and, no surprise, everything was delicious – on the plate and in the glass!

George poured two very special wines to taste – both are listed on the menu under “Outstanding by the Ounce.” These exceptional wines are selected by George in partnership with the respective winery. These wines can be ordered by 1 oz, 3 oz, or 6 oz pours or by the bottle.

For the first wine, George met with owner/winemaker Johannes Selbach to secure a delicious Selbach-Oster, Bömer Riesling – dry, crisp, lush, and very food-friendly. The second wine – Antinori Guado al Tasso – is an incredible Super Tuscan made from the classic Bordeaux grapes with Cabernet Sauvignon as the star. George snagged the wine direct from the winery in vintages from 2004 through 2013.

Ron’s philosophy in the kitchen at Wine Bar George is simple. “I want to create delicious food that pairs well with wine. I pull flavors from around the world that are relevant – that create memories.” Here is a sneak peek at some of his dishes.

The Big Board – An impressive selection of six artisan cheeses and five crafted meats that serves two or more.

Grilled Octopus with Lemon Vinaigrette – This light and refreshing salad has tender pieces of Spanish octopus (a result of grilling then chilling the octopus) with a touch of acidity from the lemon vinaigrette.

Crispy Mac & Cheese Bites – These crispy cheesy bites are surprisingly light. Served with tomato nage and Pecorino, they are Ron’s imaginative take on a grilled cheese with tomato soup.

Porchetta Spiced Pork Cheeks – Served with a creamy three-cheese polenta, these small bites of meaty goodness are cooked long and slow to perfection. The orange gremolata takes it over the top.

Grilled Whole Greek Sea Bass – One of the “family-style plates” that serves two or more, this light and tender whole fish is served with cannelloni bean ragoût and seasonal vegetables.

Olive Oil Cake – This moist cake with a rich olive oil flavor is served with candied olives and lemon mascarpone.

When the doors open to Wine Bar George, expect something special. “It is my responsibility to bring joy to the wine list and the experience,” said George. “I want Wine Bar George to encourage conversations of what is brilliant and special in the wine world.”