Traditional Enoteca Decor

Wine Bottles

• Since the focus of enoteca culture is wine, bottles of various vintages must figure prominently into the decor. Traditional enoteca decor typically features shelving along the walls where the wine bottles are simply displayed according to the vineyard, type or vintage of the bottles. Tidiness is essential since bottles displayed on a shelf can easily look messy, so it is best to line up the labels and keep the shelves well-stocked.

Barrels and Casks

• Barrels and casks are essential to the production of wine and so add an authentic touch to traditional enoteca decor. Whether used as a dining surface or simply as a large decorative element, the barrels and casks should be incorporated into the decor in moderation so they don't overwhelm the rest of the space.

Tables and Chairs

• Since an enoteca is fundamentally utilitarian, adequate seating and dining surfaces are essential to the decor. Wooden tables and chairs work best within traditional enoteca interiors, preferably with a rustic, simply constructed design. Many enotecas follow the same pattern as a traditional farmhouse kitchen and feature a single long table with chairs or benches along each side and a master chair at the head, where the sommelier sits to guide the wine tasting.

Warm Lighting

• Lighting that casts a warm, inviting glow goes a long way to creating the comfortable atmosphere characteristic of traditional enoteca design. Pendant lamps or simple chandeliers work best since they will keep the interior from looking cluttered, as it might with standing or table lamps. Many traditional enotecas also add beeswax or other light-colored candles to their interiors to enhance the Old World feel of the decor, but they should be kept to a minimum to keep the interior tidy.

Glassware

• While displaying glassware is not mandatory, it can add a decorative element to a traditional enoteca interior if displayed properly. Stemware hangers designed to hold a variety glasses are best since they will keep the glasses handy and clean before use, as well as out of harm's way when many wine tasters are present.

Wall Treatments

• Simple plaster walls with a creamy white coloration are authentic to traditional enoteca decor. A muted semigloss paint over an untextured surface that will reflect the warm lighting works best. Decoration or paintings are out of place within traditional enotecas since they distract from the visual experience of the wine.