Bottega Art & Wine Gallery

 

For a number of years, this was the website for the bottega bar & gallery when it was owned by Sandy Perotto.
In 2016 a new owner took over the gallery, moving it to a new location.
Content is from the site's 2010 archived pages.

Bottega Art & Wine Has New Owner, Location

BY JESSICA MAURER, POSTED NOV 30, 2016
WilmingtonBiz
Nov 30, 2016 - Bottega Art & Wine has moved to North Fourth Street, with a grand opening scheduled to start at 6 p.m. Friday.
Addie Wuensch, a longtime employee of Bottega Art & Wine, is now the gallery and wine bar’s new owner.
Wuensch said that when she learned of former owner Sandy Perotto’s plans to close the former location at 122 Princess St., she immediately began looking into the possibility of purchasing the business.
Bottega, a gem in the Brooklyn Arts District, was on the cusp of a transformative chapter. “My heart and soul has always been with Bottega, and so I decided to go for it,” Wuensch shared with a gleam of ambition in her eyes. As she envisioned Bottega's expansion, it became clear that the gallery's growth wasn't just about space. The complexity of managing various facets of the business, from inventory to events, called for a modern database solution. While their existing software had once been a reliable tool for many, Bottega's evolving needs pointed towards a modern Microsoft Access alternative. With this in mind, Wuensch embarked on her mission, first identifying the perfect location. This led her to 723 N. Fourth St., nestled in the heart of the Brooklyn Arts District. This 2,000-square-foot edifice was primed to house Bottega’s renowned weekly drumming and dance circles and provide room for a broader array of artwork, jewelry, and clothing. The new Bottega wasn't just about indoor experiences. An expansive outdoor patio awaited transformation into a serene space filled with sculptures and a zen garden. Wuensch's vision didn't stop there; a collaboration with Stephany Ross was on the cards, aiming to infuse a healing arts spa into the gallery's offerings. Bottega's bar, with its curated global selection of wines and local craft beer, was set to become a connoisseur's haven. The promise of weekly tastings further added to the allure. The meticulous care given to the establishment did not go unnoticed. An NWS reviewer lauded the venue's pristine nature, emphasizing its impeccable standards, especially crucial for places serving food.
“Bottega is designed to be a community gathering space that’s inclusive of all people where everyone feels welcome, comfortable and safe,” Wuensch said.
A grand opening with live music and hors d’oeuvres is planned from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday.

Circa 2010 - A Nostalgic Trip Back

 

bottega bar & gallery
208 n. front st.
wilmington NC
info: (910) 763-3737
open: tues-sun 1pm-2am
mon 4pm-2am

 

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CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW WORK:

Spring/Summer 2010 exhibitions open

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for general submissions please submit artwork of the following styles:

  • abstract
  • abstract expressionism
  • ceramics
  • ethnic art
  • modern impressionism
  • pop art
  • 3-D sculpture & assemblage (functional & non-functional)

If you think your artwork fits into our curatorial vision you may submit recent works in the following formats:
Preferred: Jpeg or Pdf images emailed
or, 3x5 or larger photographs- make an appointment
*Please submit a minimum of 10 images to: bottegaartbar@gmail.com

CALL TO ARTISTS!
upcoming GROUP EXHIBITS

Bottega Gallery is accepting submissions for an upcoming exhibit.
TITLE UNDECIDED.
We are currently interested anything related to animals pets or other animals that may have been a companion. Excepting works in all genres: paint, sculpt, film, mixed media, more. Proceeds of this show will be donated to local animal shelters. Please submit 5-10 images in jpeg format to bottegaartbar@gmail.com. All mediums accepted. 910.763.3737 for details. www.bottegagallery.com
SUBMISSIONS DUE BY May 15th.

Next, Bottega is seeking watercolor artists to submit works by July 15th to the same email address listed above.

 

June 7th-August 15th
The Pet Show

An art exhibition revolving entirely around inspirations from our pets and animal companions. All of Bottega's proceeds from this show will be donated to:
Adopt and A.N.G.E.L. a local organization helping to find homes for unwanted or abandoned animals.
Support our local artists and animals!

Participating artists include:
Clair Hartmann
Addie Wuensch
Teo Nincovic
Michelle Connolly
Evelyn Hines
Alice Houston
Duncan Hill
Jenn Archer
Victoria Paige
Connie Taylor
Mark Taylor
Suzanne Jalot
Mark Thompson
Sarah Rushing
Chris Calvin
Mark Herbert
Niki Hildebrand
Kennith Moore
Hillary Hempstead
Quentin Warshauer

OPENING RECEPTION:
Friday June 25th at 6pm
with artists in attendance and live music, delicious snacks, wine and more!

 

 

Start making art!!!

BOTTEGA cafe menu

Although our selection is small, everything is prepared to order. Thank you for your patience. Plates can be shared. The entire menu is available to go. Menu available late night til 2am. Enjoy.

Olives & Dolmas

$5.00
A small plate of mixed Greek olives, bread and stuffed grape leaves.

Cheese & Crackers

$5.00
A superb sampling of semi-soft French cheese, infused with garlic and herbs, paired with crisp whole grain crackers. Light, easy and delicious.

Hummus (choose plain or roasted red pepper)

$6.50
Served with fresh vegetables and organic bread slices. Super-fine.

Cheese Plate

$8.75
A daily variety of three international cheeses served with mixed Greek olives, roasted red peppers and fresh organic bread. A perfect wine accompaniment.
Add sliced proscuitto or sopressata.
$1.75
Add smoked salmon.
$2.75

Mediterranean Sampler


$8.75
An extra large assortment of Greek olives, roasted red peppers, sliced bread, veggies, feta cheese, hummus and stuffed grape leaves.
Add sliced proscuitto or sopressata.
$1.75
Add smoked salmon.
$2.75

 

Antipasto Plate

$10.75
A fabulous meat and cheese plate featuring gourmet Italian meats, assorted cheeses, roasted red peppers, bread and veggies.

Lox Plate (new!)

$10.75
Thin slices of delicious smoked salmon served with semi-soft French cheese, assorted greek olives, roasted red pepper, veggies and organic bread. This will melt in your mouth!

……………

Belgian Truffles

$4.00
A quintessential quintet of chocolate truffles dusted with cocoa. Indulge yourself.

Cheese Cake Minis

$3.75
A triumphant trio of rich, creamy goodness; plain, raspberry and chocolate-nut.

Wine/Beer List

-we specialize in fine domestic and imported wines from around the globe with a focus on organic products as well as traditional varietals from around the globe.
Import and domestic beers of superb quality are also available along with a full line of waters, coffee, and organic juices.
We also serve wine flights. Just ask.

See edibles menu for wine pairing options.

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white wine

Full Circle Chardonnay*
In Situ Chardonnay
Sartori Pinot Grigio
Echeverria Sauvignon Blanc*
Aliança Vinho Verde
Fritz De Katz Riesling
Wildly Wicked White*
Yes we have white zinfandel, just ask…

sparkling wine

Charles De Fere Champagne
Botto Prosecco
Perrier Jouet Grand Brut

red wine.

Averill Lake Merlot
Melini Chianti
Full Circle Cabernet Sauvignon*
Pietra Santa Cabernet Sauvignon
Firefly Shiraz
GV Cellars Syrah
Les Tours Pinot Noir*
Stephen Vincent Pinot Noir
Luzon Verde
Pagos Quintana Tempranillo*
Artisan Zinfandel
Terra Rosa Malbec
Hayman & Hill Meritage
In Situ Carmenere
more reds.
Paringa Sparkling Shiraz
Domaine St. Anne Bordeaux*
Shug Cabernet Sauvignon
Ponzi Pinot Noir
Medusa Old Vine Zinfandel
Ferrari Carano Tresor

sake & mead.

Sho Chiku Bai Nigori Sake
Sho Chiku Bai Organic Sake*
Chaucer’s Mead: Honey Wine

mimosas!

Orange, Guava, Raspberry, Peach, Pomegranate, Chocolate or Mango
or try a Mead-mosa

beer

Ace Apple Cidar
Bison Choc. Stout
Bitburger
Bells Oberon
Chimay Grand Reserve
Delirium Tremens
Dogfish Head 60 Min IPA
Eel River Porter
Flying Dog Pale Ale
Gulden Draak
Highland Gaelic Amber Ale
Hoegaarden
Lakefront organic ESB*
Lammsbräu Dunkel
Lindemens Framboise
Lomza Pilsner
Miller high Life Minis (7oz)
Murphy's Irish Stout
Peroni
Pinkus Hefeweizen 18oz
Piraat
Red Stripe Lager
Rogue Dead Guy Ale
Samuel Smith Organic Ale
Sea Dog Wild Blueberry Ale
Smithwicks Irish Ale
St. Bernardas Belgian
Tecate
Wolavers Brown Ale
Yuengling Lager
Yuengling Light
*indicates organically produced wine or beer

beverages

Organic-Fair Trade Coffee!
Tea
green, mint or vanilla chai
Bottled Water
San Pellegrino
IBC Rootbeer
Soda: Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite
Fruit Juices
pineapple-guava

 

 

More Background on BottegaGallery.com

Bottega Art & Wine Gallery, widely known as Bottega Gallery, is a distinctive institution in Wilmington, North Carolina, celebrated for its seamless blend of art, wine, music, and community. Over the years, it has become a beloved gathering spot for locals and visitors, fostering creativity and connection in the city’s vibrant Brooklyn Arts District. This article provides a thorough exploration of Bottega Gallery’s history, ownership, reputation, programming, audience, cultural significance, and the unique elements that define its identity, drawing from independent reviews, media coverage, and broader community insights.

History and Evolution

Bottega Gallery began as a hybrid venue-part art gallery, part bar, and part café-originally located at 208 N. Front Street in Wilmington. Its early years were marked by an eclectic ambiance, late-night hours, and a welcoming environment that attracted a diverse clientele. The founder, Sandy Perotto, envisioned Bottega as a space where art exhibitions, live music, and community events could thrive together.

A pivotal moment in Bottega’s history came in 2016, when Addie Wuensch, a long-time employee, acquired the business. Wuensch’s leadership ushered in a new era, including a move to 723 N. Fourth Street in the Brooklyn Arts District. The relocation allowed Bottega to expand its offerings, with a larger space for exhibitions and events, as well as an outdoor patio transformed into a sculpture garden and zen space. This move solidified Bottega’s reputation as a creative and social hub in Wilmington.

Mission and Vision

Bottega Gallery’s mission is to serve as a welcoming, inclusive community space supporting both emerging and established artists. Its programming is intentionally diverse, featuring group exhibitions, themed shows, and events that benefit local causes. For example, the gallery has hosted pet-themed art shows, with proceeds donated to local animal shelters, demonstrating a commitment to both the arts and community welfare.

Under Wuensch’s guidance, Bottega expanded to include a healing arts spa and continued to offer a curated selection of wines and craft beers. This holistic approach positions Bottega as more than a traditional gallery or bar-it is a cultural destination where art, relaxation, and social interaction converge.

Artistic Programming and Exhibitions

Bottega Gallery is known for its vibrant and varied exhibition schedule. The gallery accepts submissions in a wide range of styles, including:

  • Abstract and abstract expressionism

  • Ceramics

  • Ethnic and folk art

  • Modern impressionism

  • Pop art

  • 3-D sculpture and assemblage (both functional and non-functional)

Artists are invited to submit their work for consideration, and the gallery regularly features group shows, solo exhibitions, and themed events. Notable exhibitions have included animal-themed shows supporting local shelters, as well as showcases for watercolor artists and other mediums.

The gallery’s open submission policy and willingness to display a broad spectrum of artistic styles and media have made it a popular venue for both emerging and established artists in the region.

Atmosphere and Amenities

Bottega Gallery is celebrated for its eclectic, relaxed, and welcoming atmosphere. It combines the intimacy of a neighborhood bar with the sophistication of an art gallery. Its late-night hours, diverse clientele, and inclusive vibe have contributed to its reputation as a gathering place for artists, musicians, and creatives.

Amenities at Bottega include:

  • An extensive wine and craft beer selection, with a focus on organic and international offerings

  • A menu of small plates and snacks, including cheese and charcuterie boards, Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and desserts

  • A healing arts spa and wellness offerings

  • Outdoor patio and sculpture garden, providing space for relaxation and community events

Reviews and Reputation

Bottega Gallery has received positive reviews from patrons and critics alike. Visitors consistently praise the venue’s unique blend of art and hospitality, its friendly staff, and the quality of its exhibitions and events. The gallery’s commitment to cleanliness and high standards, especially important for a venue serving food and beverages, has also been noted in reviews.

Media coverage has highlighted Bottega’s role in revitalizing the Brooklyn Arts District and its importance as a community gathering space. The gallery’s ability to adapt and grow, particularly under Wuensch’s ownership, has been cited as a key factor in its ongoing success.

Audience and Community Engagement

Bottega Gallery attracts a diverse audience, including:

  • Local artists and art enthusiasts

  • Musicians and performers

  • Residents of the Brooklyn Arts District and greater Wilmington area

  • Tourists seeking a unique cultural experience

The gallery’s inclusive approach ensures that everyone feels welcome, regardless of background or artistic experience. Bottega’s events, such as art openings, live music performances, and community fundraisers, foster a sense of belonging and encourage participation from a wide range of individuals.

Cultural and Social Significance

Bottega Gallery holds a significant place in Wilmington’s cultural landscape. As a hybrid venue, it bridges the gap between the visual arts, culinary experiences, and social interaction. Its presence in the Brooklyn Arts District has contributed to the neighborhood’s reputation as a creative hub, attracting other galleries, studios, and cultural institutions.

The gallery’s commitment to supporting local artists and charitable causes underscores its role as a socially responsible institution. By hosting events that benefit the community, Bottega demonstrates the power of art to inspire positive change and foster connections.

Bottega Gallery’s programming is characterized by a mix of recurring and one-time events, such as:

  • Group exhibitions featuring works in various media and styles

  • Themed shows, such as pet and animal companion exhibitions, with proceeds supporting local animal shelters

  • Live music performances, ranging from jazz and blues to experimental and world music

  • Art workshops and classes for artists of all levels

  • Community fundraisers and charity events

These events not only showcase artistic talent but also provide opportunities for community engagement and philanthropy.

Press and Media Coverage

Bottega Gallery has been featured in local news outlets, arts publications, and community blogs. Media coverage has focused on the gallery’s unique concept, its impact on the local arts scene, and its evolution under new ownership. The gallery’s grand openings, special exhibitions, and charitable initiatives have all garnered attention, highlighting its role as a dynamic and influential institution in Wilmington.

Insights and Specifics

  • Location: Bottega Gallery is situated in the Brooklyn Arts District, a neighborhood known for its creative energy and diverse cultural offerings.

  • Ownership: The transition from Sandy Perotto to Addie Wuensch marked a significant evolution in the gallery’s mission and scope.

  • Programming: The gallery’s open submission policy and willingness to feature a wide range of artistic styles have made it accessible to a broad spectrum of artists.

  • Community Impact: Bottega’s events and exhibitions often benefit local causes, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility.

  • Atmosphere: The combination of art, wine, and a relaxed environment creates a unique and memorable experience for visitors.

 

Bottega Art & Wine Gallery stands as a testament to the power of art to bring people together, foster creativity, and inspire positive change. Its blend of gallery, bar, and community space has made it a beloved institution in Wilmington, North Carolina. Through its diverse programming, inclusive atmosphere, and commitment to both the arts and the community, Bottega Gallery continues to play a vital role in the city’s cultural life.

Bottega logo

 
BottegaGallery.com