Four Red Stars from Sydney Ambassador Dom Sweeney – “truly epic” pours
Sydney’s wine scene is flourishing, says our ambassador in the city – mainly thanks to its expanding by-the-glass selections. As he adds four new Red Stars, we check in with writer, editor and Inner West resident Dom Sweeney.
“In spite of what seemed like global fears for our industry, 2025 has been an excellent year for wine across Sydney,” says Star Wine List ambassador Dom Sweeney.
“Without a doubt, the most exciting new trend is the incredible evolution of the by-the-glass list. I think the combination of punters generally drinking a little less but a lot better, along with the advent and widespread adaptation of preservation systems like Coravin, has resulted in some truly epic pour selections.”
Having reported on his home of Sydney since spring 2024, New South Wales native Dom now adds four new Red Stars to our city wine guide – just in time for summer.
Living in Inner West (“which is, I guess, the Sydney equivalent of Hackney/Dalston with its vibrant, creative air and plenty of excellent pubs, wine bars, restaurants and live music venues”), Dom has the tricks for any wine lovers visiting Sydney – away from the tourist spots, of course.
Dom’s new Red Stars
Bar Copains
Bessie’s
The Restaurant Pendolino
The Wine Bar at The International
How can a restaurant/wine bar impress you?
“By not overdoing it.”
What are some of the interesting or lesser-known styles emerging on wine lists at the moment?
“We have some exceptional operators with globally refined tastes heading up many wine lists across the city, which seems to have resulted in more quietly confident, purposeful, elegant wines – at all price points, from around the world – rising in popularity. Definitely a good thing. It’s proof there’s value to be had, even when we’re talking about fine wine.”
What are you looking for in a wine list?
“I'm looking for an expression of the sommelier’s or buyer’s taste and individuality. And something refreshing.”
Any pet hates on a wine list or in service?
“I’m pretty agreeable but I do find any lack of attention towards service temperature of red wines to be a bit saddening. That, and the gamble of ordering by the glass and not knowing how long the bottle in question has been open – a disappointing version of Russian roulette!”
Which section of a wine list do you make a beeline for when you sit down?
“Either traditional method sparkling or aromatic whites.”
What's your top tip for visitors to Sydney over the summer months?
“Avoid the tourist trap restaurants that dot the Harbour and Circular Quay foreshore (there are a few exceptions, of course), and head inland. That said, if it’s the beach you’re after... don’t do that!”
Which is the best neighbourhood for wine lovers to hang out in/explore?
“It’s hard to pick one but for sheer proximity and selfishness I would have to say Newtown or Marrickville. Surry Hills/Darlinghurst is a close second!”
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