Extraordinary Wine and Food Adventures at Circl in Punch Lane
Circl Wine House in Punch Lane has emerged as a beacon of culinary and oenophilic brilliance, redefining the wine bar experience with an extraordinary fusion of food and wine. This hatted establishment transcends expectations, boasting a top food offering and an awe inspiring cellar of over five thousand bottles and more than one hundred fifty wines available by the glass. Guided by world class sommelier Xavier Vigier, formerly of Ten Minutes by Tractor, Circl makes legendary vintages like Romanée Conti accessible, inviting patrons to savor rare treasures without daunting expense. A tour of the sprawling upstairs cellar unveils a collection so vast it sparks wonder, setting the tone for a dining experience that feels like a journey through the finest vineyards and kitchens.
The wine program at Circl is nothing short of spectacular, offering a meticulously curated selection that spans regions and varietals with unmatched finesse. Sipping the crisp NV Woodlawn Cuvée 231 Traditional Method from Tamar Valley, crafted by Ricky Evans, delivers a refreshing burst of elegance. Equally captivating is the 2024 Garagiste Tuerong Aligoté, a Burgundian styled gem from Victoria that dazzles with its texture and intensity. The 2023 Bowerbird Viognier from Bellarine enchants with white nectarine and jasmine aromas, balanced by a vibrant acidity that tempers its rich palate.
For those craving depth, the 2021 Fighting Gully Road Tempranillo from Beechworth stands as one of Australia’s finest, delivering robust complexity. Sweet notes come alive with Castagna Aqua Santa, a non vintage Viognier blend from Beechworth that evokes vinified marmalade with its deep orange hue and bittersweet orange and apricot flavors. The 2024 Vignerons Schmölzer & Brown Obstgarten T Riesling from Whitlands, a dry and slatey Germanic style from one of Victoria’s highest vineyards, offers pristine balance. Each pour is thoughtfully paired with the cuisine, creating a symphony of flavors that elevates every sip and bite.
Executive Chef Elias Salomonsson, with seven years of experience at Vue Group, crafts a seasonal menu infused with Scandinavian finesse and rooted in local ingredients, designed to harmonize with the extensive wine list. The snacks alone are a revelation. Sydney Rock Oysters, kissed with lemon myrtle vinegar, celebrate Australian native flavors with delicate creativity. The Tinned Tuna Yellowfin, paired with oyster emulsion and sushi rice, transforms simplicity into sophistication. The Smoked Eel Tart, adorned with compressed cucumber and horseradish, delivers smoky, creamy bliss, standing as one of the most memorable bites in recent memory. Entrées continue the excellence with Stracciatella elevated by pickled seasonal mushrooms, parsley, and onion, while Blanc Bakery sourdough, slathered in St David’s cultured butter, proves irresistible, especially when dipped into the star entrée: Corner Inlet Calamari with Nduja, morcilla, and celeriac. This dish, with its perfect heat and addictive texture, redefines calamari, leaving an indelible mark.
Main courses maintain the high standard, with Macedon Ranges Duck cooked to perfection alongside parsnip and juniper, its tender richness complemented by the vibrant Five Tales Radicchio salad, bursting with green oak, orange, and walnuts. Gippy Gold Potatoes, bathed in caramelized onion emulsion and sprinkled with chives, transform a humble ingredient into a standout, the emulsion singing with every bite. Dessert seals the experience with a playful nod to indulgence: dark chocolate paired with almond nougat, honey, and vanilla ice cream, evoking a refined Toblerone that delights the senses.
The service at Circl is impeccable, marked by thoughtful details that elevate the experience. Tables are meticulously wiped, napkins folded when guests step away, and every wine and dish comes with engaging, knowledgeable descriptions. Chef Elias himself makes appearances, his passion radiating from the kitchen to the dining room, where the entire team exudes genuine enthusiasm. This warmth and precision make Circl an ideal setting for romantic date nights, lively gatherings with friends, or cherished moments with family.
Circl Wine House is more than a restaurant; it is a celebration of wine and food in perfect harmony, where accessibility meets excellence. The passion of Vigier and Salomonsson, combined with an unparalleled wine selection and a menu that sings with creativity, makes this Melbourne gem a must visit. Whether seeking a transformative wine journey or a meal that lingers in memory, Circl delivers an experience that is nothing short of sensational.