Joburg socialite and businessman Walter Melato has opened a new trendy wine bar, Le Wine Chambre, in Sandton.

An electrical engineer by profession and avid wine lover, Melato says the dream of opening his wine bar, "due to my love of the grapes" , has been almost 10 years in the making.

The bar has been described in social circles as a Champagne bar, why Champagne?

It's actually a wine bar with Champagne, whiskey and gin as part of an offering. We create an environment for good conversation.

What should patrons expect?

To enjoy the ability to converse with other patrons and share with us their wine appreciation.What odds did you have to overcome to achieve the dream?

Quite frankly the biggest challenge was which wines to choose, based on South African wines.

How is your wine list structured?

We offer premium, good quality boutique wines with the aim to always surprise our patrons with the variety of choices.

Does your wine list accommodate local bubbly?

Always.

How did the name Le Wine Chambre come about?

My daughter Lerato came up with the name as she studied French in high school. Also, we want to create a cellar away from home for clientele.

Who is Le Wine Chambre aimed at?

Ladies and gentlemen who appreciate fine wine and who enjoy good music.Do you serve food with bubbly?

We serve tapas.

What is the most expensive bottle of bubbly in the house?

At the moment Billecart-Salmon Brut Rose.

Has the presence of an in-house sommelier Eric Botha helped enhance patrons' experience of your bar?

Eric Botha is a rock star.

What would you regard as your signature food and bubbly pairing at your bar?

Fish taco and a Colmant brut rose, best combination.

What distinguishes Le Wine Chambre from other wine bars?

The proof is in the pudding.