Vertical Barcelona

If there is one opening that truly set the pace for Barcelona in 2025, it is Vertical Barcelona. Without hesitation, and without fear of exaggeration, it can be described as one of the finest wine bars in the world.

Vertical is not a single venue but a constellation of three projects – in Barcelona, Málaga, and Menorca – all united under the same name and philosophy. The Barcelona space, located in the heart of the Eixample, is a strikingly beautiful wine bar whose identity is defined by an extraordinary feature: a monumental, glass-enclosed wine cellar, genuinely monumental, designed with dual temperature zones. It functions simultaneously as a refrigeration system and storage, while also serving as the visual and conceptual centre of the space. It is, quite simply, breathtaking – and unlike anything else currently seen in wine bars worldwide.

The wine selection is curated by Bernat Voraviu, one of Spain’s most respected sommeliers and a leading authority on Mediterranean wines. Julio Barluenga Paraíso, formerly a sommelier at elBulli and the original driving force behind Vertical Málaga, is also closely involved in the project.

At the core of Vertical Barcelona’s impressive list – over 1,300 references – lies the Mediterranean. However, the selection intelligently extends into Central Europe, with a strong and well-considered presence of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Slovenia.

Iconic and highly sought-after bottles are present, including names such as Dauvissat, Vega Sicilia Único, and Monteraponi, alongside rare allocations and true ‘unicorns.’ Equally compelling is the discovery of less obvious, more singular producers from across the Mediterranean and its cultural orbit – small, characterful wineries from places like Greece (Karamolegos), Croatia (Vinas Mora) and Lebanon (Sept Winery), chosen for authenticity rather than fashion.

Beyond the cellar, everything works at the highest level. Prices are remarkably fair, the glassware is impeccable, and the selection of wines by the glass is extensive and ambitious. The food offering matches this excellence, bearing the signature of Jordi Vilà, one of the chefs who has done the most to elevate classical Catalan cuisine. Dishes such as traditional roast cannelloni or a classic Wellington with foie gras are executed with precision, respect, and depth.

Vertical Barcelona is not just a wine bar – it is a benchmark. An essential address in the city, and unquestionably one of those places that must be included on any serious list of must-visit destinations in Barcelona.