With packed agendas, meeting and convention attendees are always looking to make the most of their free time. Featuring unique boutiques, live entertainment, and several dining locations, Disney Springs is the place to be. One of the dining locations newest to Disney Springs is Wine Bar George, where attendees can make themselves at home in an estate-style wine bar offering selections from acclaimed wineries and up-and-coming regions – handpicked by the owner himself, who is one of 249 master sommeliers in the world.

Let’s meet the owner of Wine Bar George, Master Sommelier George Miliotes:

Hi, George. Tell us about your experience and your history with Disney.  

I was part of the opening team of the California Grill restaurant at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and managed the venue from 1995 to 2002. While there, we created an award-winning wine list and one of the first “100 wines by the glass” lists in the country. This was also where I met our Executive Chef of Wine Bar George, Ron Rupert. Ron and I have worked closely together for many years starting with the California Grill. In 2007 I became a Master Sommelier by passing a series of rigorous examinations that require candidates to identify wines by taste, aroma and sight. I’ve studied wine most of my life and always enjoy finding the most interesting wines through annual trips to wine-growing regions all over the world. 

Master Sommelier George Miliotes with Executive Chef Ron Rupert

What makes Wine Bar George a unique location within Disney Springs? 

The Wine Bar George offers more than 140 wines by the glass, bottle….and ounce! Whether you are looking for a glass of wine on tap or an ounce of some of the finest wine in the world, we have something for everyone to enjoy. The design for Wine Bar George is similar to a winemaker’s home estate with a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere. Our menu features wine, food, and a selection of cocktails, all of which include grape-based spirits. Myself, along with my team, are always happy to pair wine and food for our guests.

Do you partner with any other Disney chefs or Disney Springs locations to create your menu? 

I worked very closely with Ron to develop a menu that pairs with our extensive wine list. We do use the honey from Savannah Bee Company on our Cheese & Charcuterie Boards as well as chocolate from The Ganachery for a dessert we call The Chocolate Experience. They have some of the best honey and chocolate respectively and we like partnering with our neighbors.