Yesterday marked the grand re-opening of Camelot Cellars, a wine bar, winery and make-your-own-wine spot in the heart of the Short North. Owner Janine Aquino, who purchased Camelot in February of 2011, held an event to commemorate the overhauled space and introduce some new elements to the Camelot experience.

“My design inspiration was a classic Tuscan feel with light French accents, bringing it to a true European winery design featuring vintage modern aesthetics,” said Aquino. “Local craftsman using resourced wood and other products to build beautiful pieces of furniture.” The new interior is open with plenty of added seating around the bar and a cozy couch and chairs situated centrally for a communal feel. “We want to allow people to get to know each other, more in the family style setting, all going back to the Tuscan tradition of enjoying time around the table,” Aquino added.

Camelot’s expansion includes more than just design aesthetics. “We have introduced five new exciting flights to our wine menu, as well as four new Expand Your Knowledge Wine Tastings that are designed to educate and be informative,” said Aquino. Camelot has claimed 19 medals for its wines in 2011 at various competitions. Camelot’s make-your-own-wine experience has also been expanded to accommodate more people in the winemaking lab.

If those looking for a private tasting or an event venue, Camelot’s new Tuscan Room can accommodate up to 32 people and includes a space for food (which private events can have catered or bring in themselves.) The Tuscan room is available for a minimum of 15 people for $35-$45 person, depending on the type of tasting selected. The large table in the front of Camelot can also be rented with a minimum of 8 people, can seat up to 14 and rents for $25-$35 per person.

Camelot’s new space and selections are a great, and unique, addition to the Columbus drinking scene. “We only sell what we craft,” said Aquino. “We offer a wine bar, event space, an opportunity for people to craft their own wine, and a place where one can come in relax, not know anything about wine and leave feeling like they learned something. We feel we are the place to be when it comes to wine.”

Camelot Cellars is located at 958 North High Street.

Photos by Matt Lydy Photography and Myers Photography