An elegant European-inspired Queenstown wine bar is raising a glass to its first year in business. 

Fino Wine Bar is celebrating its first anniversary this winter after opening in its superb location in the Queenstown Marina precinct on the shores of Lake Whakatipu last year. 

Co-owner Eugene Kliushneu says it is rewarding to reflect on the past 12 months during which the lakeside fine dining experience has become recognised for its selection of award-winning wines and array of tapas. 

“We’ve reached some great milestones, which wouldn’t have been possible without the overwhelming support from our loyal customers,” he says. “The first year for a hospitality business is always tough, especially in the current economic climate. However, the challenge has made us more grateful. We still recall the moment we received our first five star Google Review. That kind of positive feedback really makes the hard work worthwhile.”

 Fino is an immersive Queenstown experience for lunch, dinner or private functions and this winter  is curating refined experiences including live music acts and aprés ski evenings while continuously evolving its menu. 

“Our philosophy is simple – let the quality of the ingredients shine.”

Eugene Kliushneu

“We adapt our cuisines based on the season, availability of the produce and customer preferences,” says Eugene. “For our winter visitors the restaurant and wine bar offers a cosy and inviting ambience. It’s an ideal place for a glass of mulled wine after a day in the mountains.”

The tapas menu has expanded to include sizable shared platters served as a large entree or main course.

“Currently our favourite menu items are the beef tartare or sambal burrata which beautifully showcases our chef Stasia Andani’s European heritage.”

“A 2022 Quartz Reef Pinot Noir complements both options well as it has enough acidity to cut through the richness without overpowering the flavours,” says Eugene. “Alternative wine pairings include a light-bodied red Gamay, a crisp white such as Chenin Blanc or a dry Riesling  with each providing a refreshing contrast to the cuisine.”

Fino Wine Bar welcomes guests daily from 11:30am until 10:00pm.