Photo Credit @LeaSharpeIG

Photo Credit @LeaSharpeIG

Patio Pours at Mesler Kitchen & Bar is more than just a wine event — it’s my dream wine bar brought to life every Wednesday evening in August, right here in Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood. I (Regine)  hand-select the wines (Candid Wines), curate soulful music (@DJAllTheWayKay), and design the seating to encourage conversation and connection. It’s part wine tasting, part neighborhood gathering, and 100% about creating an atmosphere where wine lovers — and the wine curious — can sip, learn, and mingle in a grown-up way.

Creating a Wine Experience in Hyde Park

When I imagined Patio Pours, I wanted to bring something fresh to Hyde Park — an event where people could enjoy exceptional wines, discover new favorites, and interact in a relaxed, soulful setting. The playlist leans into classics like The Gap Band, Amel Larrieux, Jill Scott, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackosn… giving guests between 40–60 that familiar, feel-good soundtrack. But to my surprise, the event has also attracted younger guests in their 20s who are loving the chance to take a break from cocktails and enjoy an atmosphere built around community.

Photo Credit @LeaSharpeIG

Intentional Seating for Community

One thing that sets Patio Pours apart is the seating. I place one solo guest with a group of three or pair two singles together to spark conversation. Guests arrive as strangers but often leave as friends — proof that wine is one of the best conversation starters.

Patio Pours Weeks 1 & 2 Wine List

The first two  week’s wines came from the Candid Wines portfolio, and they wowed guests who were surprised, delighted, and eager for more. Here’s what we poured:

Photo Credit @LeaSharpeIG

  • 2022 Bulles Lambert Mousseux Blanc – Loire Valley, France
     100% Chenin Blanc from Chinon, crafted in limestone caves with fine, creamy bubbles and flavors of apple, pear, and chalky minerality.
  • 2019 Vouvray Sec – Domaine du Petit Coteau – Loire Valley, France
     Dry Chenin Blanc with notes of quince, apple, honeycomb, and citrus oil, finished with crisp minerality.
  • 2023 Riesling Spätlese Mild – Weingut Huff – Rheinhessen, Germany
     Off-dry Riesling with ripe peach, apricot, citrus blossom, and honey balanced by zippy acidity.
  • 2022 Pinot Noir Rosé “Lemonade” – Day Wines – Willamette Valley, Oregon
     Bright strawberry, watermelon, and rose petal — a rosé born from resilience after the 2020 wildfires.
  • 2019 Domaine des Masques Exception Syrah – Sainte-Victoire, Provence, France
     Rich black plum and blackberry layered with lavender, cracked pepper, and silky tannins.

Note: The wine list may change slightly for next week’s event.

Why the Mesler Patio Is Perfect for Summer Wine Nights

The Mesler Kitchen & Bar patio is one of Hyde Park’s hidden gems. With its lush greenery, warm lighting, and chic setting, it’s the ideal backdrop for summer wine tasting, soulful music, and lively conversation.

Join Us for the Final Two Patio Pours

We’re halfway through our August series, and there’s still time to experience this unique Hyde Park wine event. Whether you come with friends or solo, you’ll leave with new connections, stories, and maybe even a new favorite bottle.

📍 Mesler Kitchen & Bar Patio – Hyde Park
 📅 Every Wednesday in August
 ⏰ 5-8 PM  

RSVP REQUIRED

Come for the wine, stay for the community. 🍷