
Shot by a City Insiders curator.
Tucked away on Clemensstraße in Schwabing, Sticks & Stones is Munich’s most ambitious wine bar—and honestly, it’s got the list to prove it. Owner and sommelier Justin Leone has curated around 700 wines by the glass using Coravin, including rare vintages you won’t find anywhere else in the city. The 70s-inspired interior (designed by a Swiss cathedral architect, no less) sets a cool, retro mood, while the bar menu of rillettes, cheeses, and charcuterie keeps things simple but serious. This isn’t your average wine bar—it’s a pilgrimage site for serious drinkers who want to explore California, natural wines, or just sip something unexpected without committing to a whole bottle.
Munich’s Wine Mecca
Sticks & Stones is Munich’s crown jewel for wine lovers, and Justin Leone’s dedication shows in every detail. The wine list is staggering—700 bottles by the glass, with an emphasis on California but also deep natural wine selections and older vintages you can actually pour without buying the whole bottle. The 70s interior, designed by a Swiss cathedral architect, gives it that quirky, timeless feel that makes you want to linger. The bar menu is straightforward but well-executed: think rillettes, aged cheeses, and crusty bread that pairs perfectly with whatever you’re sipping. It’s the kind of place where locals gather to explore new labels, and the staff (led by Justin himself) knows their stuff inside out. Don’t expect a loud, party vibe—this is for serious wine drinkers who appreciate quality over quantity.
If you’re new to natural wines or want to try something from a California producer you’ve never heard of, this is your spot. The Coravin system means you can sample without commitment, which is perfect for curious explorers. The atmosphere is intimate but never stuffy, with a playlist curated by Justin that leans rock and roll—think classic vibes rather than background noise. It’s become a local institution for a reason: the wine list is unbeatable, the design is memorable, and the focus is entirely on the experience of drinking well. Skip the tourist traps and come here if you want to taste Munich’s best wine scene.