ook for the outdoor steel sculpture - designed by the gallery’s owner and executed by artist Jean-Louis Emond (its name is “Venus”) - or you might miss this lower Mountain St. spot sandwiched beside a big Italian restaurant; its doorway could easily pass for part of its décor.

Created to showcase contemporary works by local and international artists, Galerie 1225 (named after its address) is also, surprisingly, a wine bar. Inside is an inviting atmosphere replete with faux fireplace, sparkling chandeliers and candlelit café-style tables and nooks with plush cupcake stools in pastel tones. The walls are unadorned to offset the various forms of art, all strategically lit from a variety of angles. A gorgeous circular staircase leads up to a large loft area where a bay window overlooks the abundant greenery that has managed to survive the path of progress in this area. You've now reached the wine bar.

The selection is outstanding with some 200 choices by the bottle and 20 by the glass, with smaller glasses available for pre-testing. There is also an impressive port and whiskey list as well as martinis (30 flavours and counting). Their signature drink the “1225 Martini” I found a tad sour for my taste, but a lychee martini was their hero drink. The barkeeps are charming and attentive and the hosts knowledgeable and eager to explain the art. Food-wise, there is a small menu of finger fare that allows you to wander around the space with a tidbit in one hand and a glass in the other. (Nod knowingly as you wander and view the art, it makes you look good.)

You need not be an artsy-fartsy, pseudo-sophisticated type to enjoy this lovely little cultural enclave. Opened in 2002, Galerie 1225 is the brainchild of artist and wine connoisseur Amel Chamandy who decided to marry her two loves under one roof. The result is a match made in heaven. Beyond providing an outlet for artistic expression, this gallery’s mission is to make art and wine appreciation accessible to all. Amal says, “This gallery aims not to alienate novices but to embrace those with a genuine curiosity and thirst for knowledge.” In that vein, they offer a mini-course called the “ABCs of Wine” where their sommelier will run you through the finer points of pleasing your palate and understanding your vintages. Tuesday’s happy hour you can enjoy 2 for 1 on selected wines by the glass, and Thursdays are Jazz and Martini Nights with a live musical trio. Their regular clientele consists of a broad cross-section of ages including hip urbanites, corporate types and celebrities (local and visiting) from fashion, music and even sports. We did however receive a scoop on an upcoming celeb exhibit that is open to the public and sure to draw many VIPs. - S.C.