A Taste of the Old Country in Castle Pines

Latin for drink wine, Vinoteca’s ambiance and traditional décor are reminiscent of old Italy. A baby grand piano plays live music nightly, and the authentic hand-painted murals, street lights, and fresh-cut flowers transport visitors to a traditional courtyard in Tuscany. The wines served at Vinoteca are regionally and seasonally influenced, and many of the wines are from smaller vineyards with “old vine” history to them.

Although specializing in wine, Vinoteca offers a full bar; this one hand crafted in maple and designed reflective of Italian style. The specialty drink menu features a variety of martini’s and mixed cocktails, among them the La Dolce Vita Martini (vodka, white crème de cacao, raspberry vodka, Godiva white chocolate, and Triple sec.)

Located just two doors down, La Dolce Vita Restaurant was the inspiration for Vinoteca. Owner and CPN resident, Ignazio Mullei, recognized a need for a place for patrons to continue the dining experience even after the meal was over. “In Italy, piano bars and a place to get a nice martini and a light snack are more popular than espresso bars,” according to Mullei. “My son knows the business well and has worked with me for a long time,” he continued. “He was ready to do this.”

Mullei’s son Michael had spent his life learning from his father in the restaurant industry and wanted to expand the family business. He attended Sommelier School and learned the fine points of wine making and the culinary arts. In July 2006, he successfully opened Vinoteca Tuscan Wine Bar.

“The opening was like a special event attended by many of our long-time customers and friends from the past several years at La Dolce Vita, and it was very special,” Michael said. “Our hope is to cater to the Castle Pines North community, and we hope to see many new visitors in the future.”

Open Tuesday through Thursday from 2 p.m. to midnight, and Friday and Saturday from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m., Vinoteca is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or a small event. A private room seats up to twenty, and complimentary valet parking is available on weekends. The kitchen serves antipasti, salads, and a fabulous selection of bruschetta, all prepared by Executive Chef, Ken Benton.

For more information about Vinoteca Tuscan Wine Bar, visit www.ladolcevitacastlepines.net or call 303-660-3106 for reservations. Or do it the way they did it in the old country, and just stop on by for a drink. Salute!