Small and boutique South Florida wine shops worth getting to know

Original link: https://www.sun-sentinel.com/2024/01/23/small-and-boutique-south-florida-wine-shops-worth-getting-to-know/

305 Wines, Miami

Originally from Brazil, Alessandra Esteves lived in Germany and Switzerland for six years working as a corporate lawyer. While she was there, Esteves dedicated her weekends and holidays traveling to taste wine throughout numerous European regions. Those experiences were life changing and she decided to transition from her law career to the wine industry.

In 2016, she and her partner moved to Miami and founded Florida Wine Academy. Needing a variety of wines for the courses, they decided it made sense to open their own shop. Named for Miami’s area code, 305 Wines opened in 2021.

The store specializes in wines from Bordeaux and Japanese sake. They have the largest offering of sake in all of Florida thanks to Esteves’ partner, Guilherme de Macedo, a Master Sake Sommelier. 305 Wines also has a considerable collection of Riesling and fortified wines, such as Port, Madeira and Beaumes de Venise.

If you’re interested in classes, they host a variety of wine and sake events throughout the year. The store currently offers four different wine clubs.

Wines to try: Kettmeir Pinot Bianco 2022, Italy, $20.99; Rare Wine Co. Historic Series New York Malmsey Madeira, Portugal, $57.99; Appassionata Allegro Pinot Noir 2019, Willamette Valley, Ore., $84.97.

305 Wines, 15904 SW 92nd Ave., Miami, 305-842-6769, 305wines.com.