Cantinone del Vino già Schiavi

Cantine del Vino già Schiavi, affectionately known as "Cantinone" or "Al Bottegon," is a cherished Venetian wine bar and ‘enoteca’ located in the picturesque Dorsoduro district of Venice. Situated at Fondamenta Nani, 992, this historic establishment offers visitors an authentic taste of Venetian culture through its extensive wine selection and traditional cicchetti.​

A Glimpse into History

Established in the 19th century, Cantine del Vino già Schiavi has been a cornerstone of Venetian social life for generations. The term "Bacari" refers to traditional Venetian taverns where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy an "ombra" (a glass of wine) accompanied by a "cicchetto" (a small snack). This establishment embodies the essence of a Bacaro, offering a warm and convivial atmosphere that reflects the city's rich history and traditions.

The Ambiance and Setting

Nestled along the serene canals of the Dorsoduro district, Cantine del Vino già Schiavi presents a charming and rustic ambiance. The interior is adorned with floor-to-ceiling wooden shelves lined with an impressive array of wine bottles, creating an inviting environment for both wine enthusiasts and casual visitors. While the bar does not offer seating, patrons typically stand at the marble counter or gather outside along the canal, embracing the traditional Venetian way of socializing. This standing-room-only setup fosters a lively and engaging atmosphere, encouraging interactions among guests.

Culinary Delights: Cicchetti

A highlight of Cantine del Vino già Schiavi is its delectable selection of cicchetti—Venetian tapas-style snacks. Prepared fresh daily, these bite-sized delights feature a variety of toppings on slices of bread, showcasing both traditional and innovative flavor combinations. Patrons can savor options such as marinated sardines ("sarde in saor"), artichoke pâté, ricotta with squash, tuna, and ham. Unique pairings like gorgonzola with truffle or Szechuan pepper offer a modern twist on classic recipes. Each cicchetto is affordably priced, allowing visitors to sample a diverse range of flavors without overspending. 

An Extensive Wine Selection

True to its name, Cantine del Vino già Schiavi boasts an extensive selection of wines, featuring over 500 labels primarily from Italian vineyards. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a casual wine lover, the knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you through the offerings, helping you select the perfect glass to complement your cicchetti. In addition to wines by the glass, the enoteca offers bottles for purchase, making it an ideal spot to find a special souvenir or gift. 

Tips for Visitors

• Timing Your Visit: To experience the vibrant local atmosphere, consider visiting during the early evening hours when the bar is bustling with both Venetians and tourists.
• Outdoor Enjoyment: Embrace the Venetian tradition by enjoying your wine and cicchetti outside along the canal. This offers a picturesque setting to watch gondolas glide by as you savour your selections. ​
• Cash and Card Payments: While the establishment accepts credit cards, some patrons have noted a minimum purchase requirement for card transactions. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
• Family-Friendly Considerations: Families with children are welcome; however, be mindful that the standing-room-only setup and lack of restroom facilities may require some planning. Nearby establishments offer restroom access with a purchase. ​

Nearby attractions

Cantine del Vino già Schiavi is conveniently located near several notable landmarks, making it easily accessible:

• Gallerie dell'Accademia: A short two-minute walk from this bar. ​A must-visit for art lovers, this renowned museum houses a vast collection of Venetian paintings from the 14th to the 18th century. You'll find masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, Bellini, and Veronese.
• Peggy Guggenheim Collection: One of Italy’s most important modern art museums is 5-minute walking distance from this bar. Its collection features works by Picasso, Pollock, Dalí, and Kandinsky. The museum is housed in Peggy Guggenheim’s former home, right along the Grand Canal.
• Squero di San Trovaso: A short three-minute walk from this bar. One of the last remaining traditional gondola workshops in Venice, Squero di San Trovaso, offers visitors a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind Venice’s iconic gondolas. While it's not always open to the public, you can admire the work from across the canal.

A visit to Cantine del Vino già Schiavi offers more than just a culinary experience; it provides an immersion into Venetian culture and tradition. Whether you're indulging in the diverse array of cicchetti, exploring the extensive wine selection, or simply soaking in the lively ambiance along the canal, this historic enoteca promises a memorable addition to your Venetian journey.​