Closer to the Vine -- A New Punta Gorda Spot to Sip and Buy Wine, Enjoy Morning Coffee or Light Bites

Just a few weeks ago a cozy new spot opened quietly on Sullivan Street. Closer to the Vine is in the bright, you-can't-miss, orange building that used to house the Perfect Caper. The new wine bar was created and is run by Gina Thomas (a veteran wine industry professional) with support from husband Jeff. They're a charming couple, who have created an inviting space to sip and buy wine, enjoy a morning coffee, or have a laid-back, light meal at lunch or dinner.

Since its doors swung open in Punta Gorda’s Historic Downtown District, we've made two visits.  Each time Gina was welcoming.  “We are thrilled to be opening Closer to the Vine in Punta Gorda”, she said. “Punta Gorda is a fantastic community, and we look forward to providing a friendly and comfortable setting for locals and visitors to enjoy wine and light bites with friends and family”.

Closer to the Vine features a wide-range of specialty wines from around the world to enjoy by the glass or bottle. Wine flights are also available to allow customers to sample three different red or white wines. There's also a nice selection of imported beers and micro brews.  The first time we visited we tried a flight of wines and enjoyed the red zinfandel in particular that Gina recommended. Along with the wine we sampled a selection of delicious cheeses and meats.

The high table and living room style seating areas gave us the feeling of being in a friend's home or a quaint European bistro.   Then Lou Canoe arrived for some live jazz enhancing the whole setting.    Closer to the Vine will feature live entertainment from local musicians on Friday and Saturday nights from 7pm – 10pm.  Beth Marshall, a local singer and songwriter from Southwest Florida and Ira Wilkes, a talented jazz guitarist and recording artist have also appeared here recently.

  

We returned again for lunch a week later and were equally pleased with our experience.  I had the smoked salmon platter and my friend had a chicken panini.   Both were very fresh, tasty and nicely presented.

Closer to the Vine offers a menu of light food items including a selection of fine cheeses, meats, chocolates, panini, salads and soups for lunch or a lite supper.  Also offered are a  full selection of coffee drinks including espresso, café latte and café mocha featuring Lavazza Italian coffee. Also served are gourmet teas, smoothies and light breakfast items.

Free wireless Internet access is also available to allow customers to catch up on email, Facebook or work while enjoying a glass of wine or favorite espresso drink.

Closer to the Vine is located at 320 Sullivan Street, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. Phone is (941) 833-8339. Hours of operation are Tuesday – Thursday from 7am to 8pm, Friday & Saturday from 7am to 11pm, and Sunday from 8am to 3pm.