To The Lighthouse: RBC Heritage, April 18-21, 2024
Click on map for location details
I haven’t been to Hilton Head in over 20 years so this is a shot in the dark. If you want to offer a strong wine program in a destination with significant seasonal peaks you need the financial strength to “weather” the off-season, hopefully through a dedicated core of locals. Otherwise, what you’re likely to find on wine lists and in stores, as I did, is the all too predictable and deflating “usual suspects.”
As described below, several restaurants stood out when I did my online research. All are within 5 miles of Harbour Town, although I can’t speak to the traffic during the event.
Michael Anthony’s bills itself as the premiere culinary destination on Hilton Head, including a market and casual trattoria. If the online wine list is representative, it’s smaller than I would have guessed and somewhat predictable but has a few surprises that would work in a pinch. Prices are good. On my last virtual visit there was a reserve list. Couldn’t find it this time, generally not.a good sign.
The regular wine list visible online at Red Fish is so uninspired I’d be asking for corkage before I sat down. Fortunately, that’s where their wine-friendly mentality kicks in. Corkage is readily embraced on the list ($25) and they have a companion wine market where you can buy and drink on premise for a $10 upcharge. The market claims to have 1000 bottles and if so, I’m going to assume there’s something more than meets the eye here.
Ombra has a pretty good Italian red selection, especially strong in Tuscany, including both Brunello and Super Tuscans. Unfortunately it’s somewhat overpriced and whites are virtually non-existent.
Retail
Rollers, particularly the Palmetto Bay store, is a totally respectable outlet and likely will fit the bill for stocking a rental. Reds are much stronger than whites, There aren’t many surprises in terms of creativity but if you’re content with well-known names you’ll be happy in the mode of a Total Wine.
