Good wines for spring weather is a simple enough proposition. Lean toward lighter and brighter styles to match up with the lighter foods of the new season. Try a fresh, unoaked Chardonnay; a zesty, lemony Pinot Grigio; or embrace the rosé trend that seems to grow stronger each year.
As for finding an appropriate venue to enjoy these wines, that’s an even simpler proposition, thanks to Fox Den Tavern, a cozy, neighborhood restaurant and wine bar located just off the main square in downtown Ocala.
Operated by owners Yong and Robert Madys, Fox Den Tavern separates itself from other wine bars/restaurants with its modern European, chef-prepared food menu, with a more-than-slight nod to Chef Robert’s Polish roots.
Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes, from melon-wrapped Prosciutto and seared yellowfin tuna to paella and beef tenderloin. But many would argue that the stars of the menu are the chef’s freshly made Polish kielbasa and potato-and-cheese stuffed pierogis.
Accompanying the food menu is a small but thoughtfully curated selection of wines. But don’t come here looking for expensive bottles. That’s just not the scene.
“Wine is captivating—it’s something that has always held a mystery to me,” says Yong. “But it’s also very much a comfort drink because of my childhood.”
When Yong was growing up in Korea, she and her brother would make wine from the strawberries that grew in their backyard field. This made wine forever a symbol of home to Yong and undoubtedly affected her approach to her wine list. Accessibility is the theme.
“We offer easy-to-drink wines from around the world,” says Yong. “Pinot Noirs, Pinot Grigio, Italian blends, even Napa cabs, there’s something for every taste.”
Fox Den also offers its guests a chance to become part of the family through its wine club membership. For $30, one gets 20 percent off each glass of wine, invitations to member-only tasting events and a personalized, etched wine glass that can stay at the restaurant.
Mingling with friends, clinking wine glasses, Fox Den provides a welcoming environment for celebrating Mother Nature’s season of new beginnings. If it’s a venue you’ve visited, be certain to explore their revised menu for the new year. If you’ve yet to discover Fox Den, now is a perfect time to explore something new.
Learn more › Visit Fox Den Tavern’s Facebook page or call them at (352) 622-1919.
