As a member of the RCC, I try to use the facilities as often as possible. However, for all the wine lovers out there who fly through Dulles, I have an alternative.

At the far end of the C terminal in IAD (where all the international flights depart), there is a small wine bar called Vino Volo. (website: http://www.vinovolo.com/ ) This is part of a new chain of wine bars that is opening around the country. The wine menu includes a number of wine flights, many of which change regularly.

As of this week, Vino Volo is serving a flight of two Syrah wines for $19. One of these two wines, the 2005 Glaetzer Amon-Ra Shiraz, is one of the most spectacular wines available on the market today. (Note, they also sell the Amon-Ra by the glass at $33, but I find the flight to be more than satisfying especially with the opportunity to compare the Amon-Ra side-by-side with another Syrah) The Amon-Ra has won accolades from wine critics as well as the public at large. Some consider it close to perfection. It is a rare treat to have a wine bar serving such a wine by the glass, especially as part of a flight.

Vino Volo also offers an excellent cheese selection that complements the wines perfectly.

So, as an alternative to sitting in the RCC drinking mediocre wine, I highly recommend treating yourself to a fantastic wine experience while waiting for your flight in IAD.

And if you are flying internationally, of course stop by the RCC first to pick up your drink chits for next time before hitting the wine bar :)

parker gave it what, 98 points? i've got 2 bottles in my cellar :) i started with a 6 pack :(

I am going to move this to the Washington, D.C. forum.

lluv2fly
Moderator, UA

I second the recommendation. I was there last year--I believe not long after it opened--and was impressed with the selection of wines, especially by the glass. The food was pretty decent too, especially when compared to some of the other fast-food airport alternatives. Glad to hear it's still worth a stop.

why goto the RCC and use drink chits for nasty wine and stale crackers - this wine bar is awesome - try the flights (as the OP rec'd) and if you like one - buy it (they'll box it for travel)

the small plates are really tasty if you're hungry

Mechanical Delay at IAD --> :mad: --> Go to nearest RCC and get meal voucher --> Leave RCC --> Go to Vino Volo --> Use voucher on Vino Volo snacks --> :)

Vino Volo is the greatest improvement to IAD this decade! ^

Wanted to try Vino Volo last time at IAD but the place was packed, not one empty seat let along empty table. There is also one at BWI in the Southwest terminal, I forget which concourse.