Tucked behind Zucca and located across the parking lot from Atherton, this killer wineshop/bar/hangout made for a great stop on a Friday evening. Plenty of seating inside, and we're talking the funky, IKEA-style seating. Comfy couches, lounge chairs, and bar stools. The wine is stacked high on the right wall in funky wine racks. Take your pick. I love how they split up the varieties. As an individual who doesn't know a lot about wine, or pretend to know a lot about wine, I appreciate the simple approach. Listed above each area, you'll see "Creamy," "Tart," "Bright," and other descriptors. It makes it more interesting for someone like me. I don't even know where to begin when wines are listed under their country of origin. Vin Master is doing it right. We picked up a fun-looking bottle of Sauvignon Blanc. I haven't really moved past whites just yet. I still need a bright, semi-sweet wine to actually say I "enjoy" it. Next time, especially if the weather is nice, we'll be hanging out here al fresco. Great patio on the tracks and a killer, quiet space to enjoy a glass or three. Cheers! read more

I used to go to this place when they served food and it was wonderful but the most recent time I went was a very different experience. I didn't feel welcomed at all when I went in and the lady wasn't very polite. She also never checked up on us the whole time we were there. Wine is good of course, just not the service. I would recommend other places in South End. read more

I wasn't blown away by Vin Master . We walked in on a Saturday afternoon as they were cleaning up from a pet adoption drive (love that they do this) . Inside was fairly quiet, just the two of us and one other person other than the lady running the shop. The shop itself is very cool - they organize by flavor profiles similar to the old Press uptown .Inside the shop is the old scale which is great that they preserved a bit of the mill-history. They have lots of comfortable seating which is also a plus (outdoor too). We looked around for a few minutes but weren't greeted for some time. We contemplated splitting a bottle only to see a $10 corkage fee- which I find to be a bit ridiculous if you purchase wine on site. We noticed most of the glasses were in the $10 range so we decided to just go elsewhere as for two of us to have two glasses would run $40, a bit steeper than we were looking for. I would consider checking them out again though maybe for a special night out or when were looking to indulge a bit more. ----------Update------------------------- I received a message from Chris the owner explaining the $10 cork fee. Unfortunately, we didn't know at the time but it's good to know for next time! Hi Shauna, I'm sorry that you had a bad experience. The I e thing I need to explain is that the $10 corkage fee is only for the Friday night when we bring in a DJ. That goes directly to him. Unfortunately, the board did not get updated by the time you came in. So other than the 2nd Friday, we never have a corkage fee. I hope you give us a chance to give you a better experience soon, Chris read more

I come from a region in Europe with a good dozen wineries in every town where all tastings are free and premier wines are cheaper than a supermarket bottle in the US and a glass out at a wine place only cost me about three bucks. So --- I've been wary of wine here, of not so great North Carolina wines, overpriced imported wines from wineries catering only to export business with flashy labels, etc. Vin Master is the first place I found that made me pretty happy about what I found. He still does get his wines through a chain of distributors and buyers, but I suppose you can't expect much more around here if you're on a budget of about 12 to 30 dollars a bottle. Prices are about the same as or one to two dollars above prices quoted in Wine Enthusiast magazine, so fair enough. We recently went to one of the Mega Tastings, where you try ca. 25 wines and excellent snacks of good cheeses and meats for 15 dollars. (Hint: bring a designated driver. Really. 25 wines are a lot, even if you only get splashes of each.) If you buy a half case, they discount you the 15 dollars you paid for the tasting (which I appreciate since it brings the business model a little closer to the free tasting culture in Europe). These happen once a month, entirely free smaller tasting happen every Thursday. As for the type of wines you find here - I think most people can find something here they will like. There are some yuppie wines with happy colorful labels that taste funny and sparkle, but mostly there are some very solid blends and pure wines in a reasonable price range. read more

Hooray for a wine shop in South End! Vin Master is such a convenient stop - right across from Atherton Market. Grab some delicious dips, some fresh veggies, perfect fish and talk to Chris (owner of Vin Master) about the best bottle to accompany your meal. Perfecto. This particular wine shop is so special as Chris is everything but pretentious. He's laid back, helpful, friendly and genuinely wants to make sure your happy with your vino. He also offers free tastings on Wednesdays, $6 flights (of 2 wines) and a really unique flavor profile system that I just can't wait to get the results! This flavor profile will help him to steer me in a delicious direction for wines that please my palate. With wines of all price points and flavors, so I'm sure the folks here can help you find what you're seeking. Stop in Vin Master, take in the simple and lovely surrounding and sip on a tasty glass, inside or outside. Cheers! read more

It's a fantastic little wine shop! Went here for a CMYE though I'm not much of a wine drinker. All the wines here are made with organic sustainable farming methods for those who are environmentally conscious. Located in the Atherton Market there is plenty of parking, but the Vin Master was quite hard to find. It is seriously tucked away in the back and hidden behind a pizza place. Thank god for the signs confirming it's there and gps or I would have never found the place! The shop itself is much bigger than the outside looks. Exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and pleasant lighting give it a nice laid back feel. There's a couple chairs and tables and some people were enjoying a glass of wine when I came in. That's a nice touch being able to try some wines out before you buy them. The owner Chris is ridiculously nice and friendly guy who is a certified sommelier and will help you pick out a wine that's right for you. Definitely check out this wine shop if you haven't before. You'll probably be pleased with your experience and happy with your wine choice. read more

This little spot has my heart. Great selection of vino, good snacks to go with and I love the ambiance. We usually create our own charcuterie board and start with our favorite bottle followed by some of Chris's suggestions. Chris is the owner; he is a super nice guy that will be happy to make suggestions based on your taste and price range. I recently celebrated my friend's birthday with a small get together at Vin Master. It was a major success. They are so helpful and lay back at the same time. They allowed me to bring all kind of things, decor, deserts and even flowers. We made my friend's birthday a fabulous affair. I love the ambiance at this place. You can either sit inside on a rainy cold day or enjoy good weather outside. If you have not been there, stop by. You won't regret it. Love, Love Vin Master read more

Vin Master - Birthday Celebration!!! - Wine Bars Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

This is a cozy little wine bar in South End, tucked slightly out of the way near the light rail line. It's a long, narrow spot that was a bit industrial, but it had its own charm. My wife and I stopped in here after dinner on a Saturday night. I tried a pinot noir and she had a grenache. Both were tasty, if a little pricey, but we enjoyed them nonetheless. The pinot I ordered was the last of the bottle and there was none left, so the owner just gave me the little bit left gratis which was nice. We had a very pleasant time. The only detractor was the layout; all the seating was pushed very close together and there was no separation. Also, I think everything in the place was from Ikea. Not really a big issue, just something I noticed. More seating separation and maybe some fake plants or screens used as dividers would do this place wonders. We'll be back! read more

Wow you have to pop into this great location for your fav and hopefully your new fav vino!!! Located right at the Atherton Mill the wine shop is easy to find (near the pizza place). The mill had a huge scale which is still in this wine shop! Very fun to see how many people you can get on it :-) The store is set up to help you in case you aren't sure what to try. They have signs like 'spicy' etc. The store workers are so friendly and nice they will steer you in the right direction. Don't be afraid to ask for help and try a tasting too! read more

Went here on a Saturday night with a couple girlfriends. Chris brought over three bottles of wine that he thought we'd enjoy. After opening he first we realized it wasn't the taste we were expecting. He happily opened up a different one and we weren't charged for the first! We had another bottle of wine and it was great! Chris was very helpful in choosing our selections! The ambience and decor in the place was great, we were able to sit down and talk while listening to a variety of music playing from an iPod. There was so many bottles to choose from and you can even do flights of individual glasses. The prices of the wines vary, but they are definitely within reason. Great place, will definitely be back! read more

The Vin Master has a wonderful selection of organic, biodynamic, sustainable, and charitable wine selections in a wide variety of price ranges. I have learned a lot (while having tons of fun) at Wine Down Wednesdays, Vin's free weekly tasting. Don't just go to Vin to buy wine. It is a great place to split a bottle and hang out on the couches, but BYOC (bring your own crackers)! Also consider Vin for special events. My friends and I have held several birthdays and a trunk show here. Most importantly this place has a great atmosphere and a welcoming/helpful owner! Expect something unique. This isn't your mother's wine shop! Looking forward to the bubble tasting on Dec 2!! read more

Great wine choices. I've gone with friends many times. It's always a pleasant experience and the wine is great! Very knowledgeable.

Awesome!!!!! Place with unique wines, ciders and beers! Yeah that's right I said beer at a wine shop if you get a chance you should try a beer from Grimm brewery, can't believe they even had it. Friendly atmosphere and staff. Oh and not to mention they also sell local grocery and pantry items. One cool place in South End! Thanks VinMaster for a great time!, I'll be back read more

Vin Master - Grimm beers, ymmm - Wine Bars Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

This was a really cute and cozy tasting room that was really hard to find! I was determined, though, to find it because of the Yelp check-in offer. They had a nice wine selection, the guy working there wasn't pushy, and I enjoyed a quiet hour sipping on wine. I hope this place stays in business because it is a relaxing spot to enjoy wine. read more

Fantastic wine shop and bar tucked away along the light rail. Stop in on your way to your next dinner party for an easy hostess gift, or come snag a bottle for yourself and stay a while. Vin Master has bottles at various price points and friendly staff to help you choose. You can also buy wine by the glass if you don't feel like committing to a bottle, and they have a small offering of local meats, cheeses, and other snacks in case you want to have a little food with your wine. Vin Master is a great little spot to relax with a bottle of wine and a few friends. I'm looking forward to attending one of their mega-tastings and a food truck wine dinner in the future! read more

This place is my new favorite Southend wine bar! A girlfriend and I went there for the first time this past Thursday for their monthly megatasting and had a blast. They had 5 tables set up with tons of wines to sample -- each different and magnificent in its own way! Reds, whites, blends! Something for every wino that's for sure! The inside was rustic and classy with plush leather couches lining the tasting room. The sommeliers were very kind and knowledgeable; sharing tid-bits about each of the wines offered. Cheese and crackers were provided at no cost and the entire event was only $15 per person. Wines could be ordered at a discounted rate too! I've already marked my calendar for next month! Couldn't be happier with this gem of a wine bar. I can't wait to try it out again! read more

Vin Master - monthly megatasting at Vin Master! 25+ delicious wines! - Wine Bars Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

Quaint, Cozy, Great selection. Hidden Gem. Needs a bit more music for atmosphere but really enjoyed it. read more

Very cool place I was here for a wedding that was catered. Great atmosphere. Would host a party here! read more

Vin Master was a great choice! Their wine selection was fantastic and their vibe was perfect. The inside was modern and quiet, which allowed for a great conversation while sipping your wine. I definitely recommend this place! read more

Vin Master - Wine Bars Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

I have been to Vin Master twice - once with a friend for a causal drink and once with a group to attend a tasting event. I love the ambiance in this wine bar - the seating is simple, yet cool and the wall decor is eye catching. It has a very relaxed vibe. The tasting was a fun, social event and everyone was very knowledgeable and helpful! read more

Normally this is my favorite place to go with my friends and we have a lot of events here & socialize here. Last night this was not so. I was there with a colleague & best friend to send off for her dream job in NY. The new owner is EXTREMELY rude. We ordered several bottles so that we could take them home but did partake in 3 with a party of 5. We ordered a large cheese & meat tray as well. Our server Jessica was AMAZING & we truly are sad that she has to work at such an unprofessional establishment. They turned away customers that we walked in 15mins before they closed & were EXTREMELY rude to them. Jessica's shift was over so the new owner had to service us & we wanted the food & wine boxed up to take with us & she was EXTREMELY rude & we just let it go but when we went to leave we asked if we could use the restroom & her boyfriend told us "Come on & hurry up and get the fuck out". We then, shocked, said "excuse me?" He then went on mumbling under his breath & slammed the door on us. We tried to speak to the owner to see what she wanted to do with the glasses we had & he came out extremely combative where she was holding him back from 5 women. She then was rude & told us "I corked your shit so get the fuck out. You can leave". None of our things were packaged or "corked" so we went to tell her & that is when her boyfriend became violent & grabbed my friend by the arm & threw her against the wall & called the police saying that we attacked him. We took pictures of the assault & were gathering our things to leave & he continued to scream & try to attack us. We had to defend ourselves JUST to get our personal belongings (purses etc). I will NEVER return there because it is NOT ok to be that rude & to assault your customers. The new owners have tarnished this loved place & none of my friends & associates will ever return. read more

Vin Master - After the owners boyfriend assisted us - Wine Bars Near Me - Charlotte, North Carolina

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I am so disappointed. I used to walk dogs to this wine bar daily and buy cases of wine. when Chris and Dee were there. New owners are terrible! They were extremely rude, worst service and experience ever. We will never go back!! read more

Let me preface this review by saying I was already pretty merry when I came to Vin Master. Regardless, I remember this place being really cool. The inside is really nice with plenty of seating at the bar and tables. Their wine selection is great and their prices are decent. You can buy wine by the glass and the bottle. It's located in Atherton Mills so there's plenty of parking and easy to locate. I'd rather come here than go to Foxcroft Wine for a wine night. I'll definitely be back! read more

Awesome place!!!! My wife and I were in town for a weekend get away and found this wine bar on Yelp. We were staying downtown and took the light rail out to it in the south end. They were offering Sangria for $5 and it was really good. Very refreshing. Great place to stop for a drink. read more

Vin Master is a casual wine bar in South End - it's a great spot to grab a glass of wine (with large pours) at the end of a long day. Love their half off wine on Wednesday's. #WineWednesday read more

Quite possibly the best wine spot in Charlotte. Right on the rail. Easy going atmosphere and fantastic customer service. Don't be a vin loser. Be a bin master read more

Vin Master is a neighborhood wine shop gem. Chris and his wife know their wine and always help us find what we are looking for--even better, they help us find what we aren't looking for. We've had parties for friends in the space, brought some snacks and had a casual evening cocktail hour, or just popped in to shop for a bottle or two. It's pleasant, relaxing, and delightful. Love this place! read more

The fella and I stopped in on a Saturday around 4:00, and we were the only people there! John warmly greeted us and gave us the rundown on how all the wines were arranged (by taste rather than type). We settled on a glass of sauvignon blanc and a glass of pinot grigio (each $8) and grabbed a seat inside since it was so humid outside. I have to agree that the seating is a little odd only because the place is wide open, and it feels like it would be tricky to have a "private" conversation. The comfy chairs are huge, which means it's hard to put them close together, and the tables weren't uncomfortable, but I agree with the reviewer who said they felt IKEA-ish. However, the ambiance is really cozy even though it has high ceilings and looks a little industrial. We had a great time watching all the people walk and run by on the Rail Trail, and I could see this being a great place for a drink after work for the over 30 crowd. read more

Love this spot! Serves great wine with great prices. What's better than that? Also, their cheese boxes are sooo good! And are great to have with the wine. I loved their selection of spreads and butters. I bought the mustard chili rosemary spread and have already used it so many times. Definitely will be back! read more

Went to a great Wine dinner last night at Vin Master! It was a pairing of Pullis Wines from Slovenia and the Hot Box Food Truck ..What a unique idea!...Vin Master is such a nice quiet place for enjoying wine. Adding to the experience of the Hot Box food - it was perfect! Love the different wines Slovenia ..the wine group from Sour Grapes was spot on and knowledgeable ! Will watch for any more of the Wine dinners there! Great Job Vin Masters!! read more

It's great to have a wine room and shop in South End. It's locally owned and run so you can have a good conversation about wine and honest recommendations based on your taste preferences and budget. The space is unique - lofty and industrial yet inviting - with lots of seating for tastings and hanging out. I honestly can't think of anything negative. PS - by light rail stop read more

A great little shop owned by a sweet couple who will welcome you and educate without the intimidation or snob factor. My hubby and I visited recently for the first time. It's a unique space by the light rail tracks on the back side of Atherton Mill shops. We sat on the comfy couches and sipped wine while enjoying a cheese & cracker plate. Chris recommended wines based on our descriptions of what we like. Perfect! I only wish we lived closer. Oh, and they welcome well-behaved dogs. The owners have two adorable ones that "protect" the place. ;) read more

I had a hard time believing the small space tucked around the corner at Atherton could be a great wine shop and a nice place to enjoy a glass, but I'll admit it - I was wrong. The Vin Master, with bottles on one side and couches and tables on the other, caters to both shoppers and guests in search of drink, and does both very well. Post Christmas shopping and Mellow Mushroom snackage at the Boulevard, we were the latter and made our way all the way to the back to a small bar set-up with a chalkboard of available glass offerings. There is a tasting option (I believe it was taste any 2 for $6 or 3 for $8), along with a very thorough and informative intro to accompany each (he was mid-spiel as we arrived), but the prosecco was calling my name. The couches were super comfy, the dogs scurrying around were adorable, and we were checked on as often as he could with the growing crowd. There was no issue with patrons bringing in food from the food trucks outside (which in a part of town that is pushing so hard for it to thrive it shouldn't be that oddly refreshing) and everyone was enjoying themselves. The only snag was as we were attempting to close out there was a little lag as we were being juggled amongst the other patrons who needed something. No biggie, of course, since it is a small shop and I'm not expecting someone to employee too many extras for the chance it'll get busy like it happened to that evening, but on nights like a Chow Down you can expect to wait. The prices were reasonable (and a yelp check-in deal is always nice) and I look forward to returning to enjoy another glass and also shop, and many of the wines were very affordable and some were even broken down into pairing suggestions - so if you know what you're making for dinner but don't know what to serve with it - viola! the Vin Master has you covered, and although I'm sure he'd rather aid you with your purchase, you could easily navigate yourself to a good wine without help. read more

Yes, yes yes!! Vin Master just changed ownership and I can't even begin to tell you how delightful our experience was. We had plans to celebrate a friend's birthday (30 people) at another wine bar, but it closed due to inclement weather. I immediately called Vin Master to see if they could accommodate us and Rochelle, the new owner, graciously accepted. When we arrived she had set up a table, put flowers out and made sure that we had everything we needed. She even had pulled wines for our tasting -- all reasonably priced! The experience got even better. Rochelle and her boyfriend (the other owner) made sure everyone had whatever they needed throughout the party. It was great!! Will be back very, very often! If you haven't checked it out, you must! read more

Needed a break yesterday so I headed to Vin Master's after work as a friend had emailed a newsletter notification about a free wine tasting. My kind of deal! Using other Yelp reviews, I found the shop just around the right hand corner of the parking lot. I was greeted by two friendly canines as I entered as well as Chris the owner. Suffice to say it was a very pleasant visit. No pressure to buy anything (though I did get a nice bottle of a white, natural wine from Italy). If you're looking for something a little unique, consider Vin Master. read more

Vin Master is a fantastic wine shop. Nestled in the heart of South End, it is centrally located and offers a great atmosphere for enjoying an amazing selection of wines. The owner, Chris, is so personable and knowledgable about wines. He'll even do a personal wine profile for you. I'm looking forward to my next visit to Vin Master and would also recommend the venue for group functions. read more

I have been a few times for their Wine Wednesday special, with all glasses 1/2 off. The individuals running the store are very friendly and helpful in selecting a wine. I would definitely recommend coming here to unwind with a glass! read more

Awesome prices. They do wine tasting every Thursday with Mega tasting of 25 wines every third Thursday. Small plates selection for food. Usually 5 dollar glass specials. read more

I stopped into Vin Master for some wine before dinner with my girlfriend. Although they seemed to have a great wine selection we weren't impressed with any of the wines or sangria we tried. The prices were not great for the service we received. I do hope to stop back into Vin Master soon and have a better experience! read more

Unenjoyable experience. Extremely unwelcoming environment. The staff was rude and condescending. Will not go back.