Crystal Palate Wine & Gourmet

I'm not sure how we only just discovered Crystal Palate...but we'll be returning often. It's tucked away in the East Beach community (not too far from COVA). We dropped in on a Friday night to check it out and were greeted by the owner, Crystal (...thus the name of the establishment ). The beautifully appointed shop is loaded with excellent wine. Crystal and her staff are clearly passionate experts who are at least as interested in educating as they are selling delicious wine. We had several tastings while we browsed and checked out the attached 'wine education' space. We learned that classes occur on a regular basis and private wine classes (think office social event) are available too. We ended up spending about an hour at the shop and despite the high end atmosphere discovered that there were also plenty of very affordable wines were stocked. We walked out with several bottles and a some of their carefully selected pastas. Get the word out!

This was by far the best wine tasting I've ever been to! Crystal is extremely knowledgeable, yet engaging and friendly. She treated our bachelorette party with such extra care and provided nuts and chocolate that complimented the fantastic wine we tasted. The wine ranged from unique to classic and drinkable.

What an elegant kind of place. Located in the East Beach neighborhood in Norfolk, you probably wouldn't find yourself in this neck of the woods unless you're a resident or work nearby. Make the trip. It's well worth the visit.Crystal, the owner, specializes in the education of fine wines. She tries to showcase wines you typically won't find in local stores so a visit to her is a must. If you appreciate the stories behind wine and the respective regions where they come from, I highly suggest you experience a tasting. I'm the guy doesn't care where wine comes from but when you hear things like how temperatures in a particular region in Germany (or Italy or Spain) impact the scent and taste of a wine, it makes you think twice about what you're drinking and better understand and appreciate what's inside of your glass. It's a cool experience. Crystal is very knowledgeable about all things wine and you'll love her concise delivery of each sip you'll take.It's not a huge venue but I think a group of 20-25 people can really enjoy an education session of wines throughout the world.This particular event not only showcased six wines (1/2 red, 1/2 white) but suggested pairings. Olives alone? No thanks. Olives with wine? Where do I sign up?Highly recommended to experience a wine tasting. Plan an event for your work family or make it a couples night.

It's a unique shop , it's my first time here but I am comfortable to the place, the owner is very friendly and they takes time to their costumer for asking what they want. it's a place that i can recommend

I have been here a few times now. I walk in and ask Crystal to give me something I would not usually find or try. SHE DOES NOT DISAPPOINT! She first gave me a South African Merlot and a Rose both were delicious. This time I got 3 ,Just opened the second and soooo good! I love being able to go in and get something she chooses for my specific tastes. I would recommend this place for any person who loves wine, but also for those who are just learning to as she will find the perfect wine for you. Thanks Crystal!

Crystal Palate is a truly unique shop. The owner, Crystal, specializes in wine education so you will leave knowing something more about wine than when you walked in. She takes the time to get to know you and your likes so that she can help you select a wine you will truly enjoy. Her unique shop also carries a selection of cheeses, gourmet food items and gifts.

My daughter and I came to Virginia Beach as part of our Mother/Daughter 21 and over trip. My daughter really wanted to have her first wine tasting experience during our trip so I searched for places that offered wine tastings. I called Crystal Palate Wine & Gourmet to ask about a tasting. Unfortunately they weren't having a tasting on that day so I continued to look for a place. Crystal called me back and offered to give us an educational tasting anyway and I am so glad she did! Crystal provided an amazing time. Her knowledge of wine and wine making is the most extensive of any I have encountered. The wines were all Italian and she without a hitched educated us on how to serve, store and pair these wines. I normally do not like red wines but somehow the wine Crystal served converted me. I had to take two bottles back with me for my husband to enjoy. Also, Crystal makes truffle almonds that are so good I couldn't stop eating them. Of course I had to bring those back to Ohio as well. One other great thing that must be mentioned. I went to the store to buy cheese so my husband and I could enjoy our wine. I couldn't remember the type of cheese that Crystal served so I called her. Not only did she answer but she patiently talked me through what the best cheese would be. If you're in the area you must stop by her business. If you live in the Norfolk/Virginia Beach area and haven't gone you're really missing out. Next time I am there I will be stopping in! Thank you Crystal for such an enjoyable experience with my daughter!

Awesome wine shop. Wines from (I need something great for book club but not breaking the bank, weekday wine, beach wine) to I need specific wine for a specific dish or to impress friends. I really appreciate the knowledge of the staff. I just say, I'm cooking this - I need this! So easy. I go sweaty after a work out class or in normal clothes. Ha ha. Awesome neighborhood shop with equal neighborhood warmth.

My husband and I received a Christmas gift box filled with various Crystal Palate products! Everything in the box was delicious and special! The packaging was nice as well. This was a great gift to receive!!! please support this business as they are wonderful!

Crystal Palate is an absolute gem; a one-of-a-kind treasure for anyone who has interest in wine, food, and great conversation! It is a MUST stop regardless of whether you are a local or just in town visiting.My wife and I stopped in a few days after the shop opened and have been frequent visitors ever since. Crystal, the owner, has world-class knowledge combined with superb customer service and interpersonal skills. She is almost always onsite at the shop and extremely willing to assist her customers in making the perfect selection within their own respective tastes and budgets.Whether you are on the hunt for the perfect bottle for a special dinner, an everyday table wine to unwind during the week, or a connoisseur on the hunt for some rarities, this is THE place for you!!