Originally tucked neatly into the back of Palermo in downtown Ventura, Alegria wine bar is making a strong debut in its own right, from a new space just a few doors west. While the new Alegria is much like an expanded version of the previous one, more attention has been given to detail and comfort. The decor is decidedly Spanish, with dark woods, rich fabrics and masculine textures bringing to mind matadors, Spanish castles, Don Quixote and of course winemaking. Ambiance may reign supreme at Alegria but the wine is king. With a list a mile long and servers eager to make suggestions, one could spend a whole afternoon or evening immersed in the elegant pleasures of tasting. Space and selection aren’t the only things that have expanded at Alegria, the menu has grown to include tapas, pannini, salads, desserts and fine chocolates in addition to the compulsory cheese and baguette plate. Wine is available by the bottle, the glass and the half glass. Alegria also stocks gift items and an assortment of Mediterranean specialty foods as well as gourmet deli meats and artisan cheeses. If it seems at all intimidating, it’s not. The staff is friendly and accommodating and the owners have managed to accomplish the impossible: unpretentious posh. From the business lunch to girl’s night out, the anniversary party or the first date, Alegria is a place for people to enjoy the finer things, together.
Enjoy wine tasting and food pairings featuring wines from the Russian River and select pairings courtesy of Santa Barbara's Sage and Onion restaurant. July 26, 6:30 p.m. Five wines, five pairings. $45 per person.
Originally tucked neatly into the back of Palermo in downtown Ventura, Alegria wine bar is making a strong debut in its own right, from a new space just a few doors west. 
