Above: Sycamore Wine Bar offers a state-of-the-art serving system in a cozy “speakeasy” setting. Photo by Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald.
By Michelle Kramer-Fitzgerald
A chilly winter night in Old New Castle warms quickly as you descend into the space of Sycamore Wine Bar. The enterprise opened in mid-October of last year and has been bustling ever since.
Owner Tricia Howarth and partners chose the location, the cellar of a 200-year-old building at 208 Delaware Street, because “the space just screamed speakeasy.” The location features original stone-and-brick walls, including an original well — an Instagramable spot that they’ve preserved, sealing it off with a plexiglass window inset, adjacent to one of their corner “nooks.”
“It’s super cozy down here,” we heard one patron observe. Another guest described the ambiance as “intimate, rustic, yet chic.” Softly lit, the space is welcoming and neatly appointed with high-top tables, comfortable seating, and wall banquettes. On this particular Friday night, the room was full and lively with patron chatter, but not overwhelming.
At the host desk, Howarth greets guests, and her exuberance is infectious. Upon checking in, patrons are provided a branded Sycamore access card — linked to their credit card — which allows them to “unlock” the bank of wall-length wine dispensers and choose a tasting size in 1-, 4-, or 6-ounce pours.
The majority of wine-and-spirits (including a 50-year-old Cognac and a 52-year-old Armagnac) selection are non-American labels, although sometimes a few are available. The bar also offers light bites of charcuterie and cheese boxes, dips, and sweet treats that are all created by local chefs.
On this particular visit, our group sampled a Washington state Cabernet Sauvignon; a rosé from Provence (France); a Côtes du Rhône blend and a Bordeaux (France); a Barbera (Italy); a Châteauneuf du Pape blend (France); and red blends from Israel and Spain.
Wall-length dispensers allow you to serve yourself and choose between 1-, 4- and 6-ounce pours. Photo by Amy Watson Bish.
Sycamore’s team carefully selects their wines to suit a specific profile. Gregory Fulkerson, one of Sycamore’s wine hosts and a certified wine specialist, works onsite one day a week. “I just fell in love with this place and the wine library,” he said.
Fulkerson noted that the leadership team chooses wines with a very distinct profile — predominantly French, but also global varietals that are balanced, not too tannic, yet approachable and broadly appealing. Wines rotate based on customer requests, popularity “or if we find something special.”
It’s a perfect space for pre-dinner stop, girls’ night out, or a nightcap. The background jazz and ambient music complements the room and doesn’t drown out conversations. Throughout the night, the crowd was mixed with couples, small friend groups, and circles of women of all ages.
Friends Krista Connor, Leilah Connor, and Kristen Vaughn were one of the groups enjoying the evening. They all agreed they loved the vibe.
“It’s very chill, and that’s what you want for a night out … a cozy atmosphere that’s people-friendly,” said Connor. Their favorite wine choices included the French rosé, the Washington cabernet (“a robust, smooth red”), and the French pinot noir (“delightful”).
The venue hosts regular specialized events like tequila tastings, Galentines gatherings, speed dating nights, and more. Regular hours are Wednesday and Thursday (4-10pm), Friday and Saturday (2-11pm) and Sunday (2-10pm). For complete event details, follow the Facebook page at “The Sycamore Wine Bar“.
