by the glass: A Sip of Summer

At The Wine Bar in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, owner Josh Smith didn’t follow a traditional path into wine—but that’s exactly what gives the space its approachable charm. A graduate of Lander University with a degree in elementary education, Smith began bartending in Myrtle Beach after college. What started as a side job soon became a calling. After stepping away from teaching, he spent eight years at Fuji Sushi Bar, where he helped shape standout wine lists—an experience that sparked a lasting passion.

“I bought The Wine Bar in December 2021,” Smith says. “My vision was simple: I want it to feel like you’re being hosted in our living room.” That philosophy defines the space today—cozy, welcoming, and rooted in thoughtful hospitality. “Customer service is just as important as the food and wine,” he adds.

He has a soft spot for the Belle Hall community, where he worked for many years. “We love the local schools and neighborhoods around us. We sponsor the BHE school PTA and host gatherings for their teachers and parents. Each year, we host a large-scale silent auction and sales donation event for Make-A-Wish SC.”

The Wine Bar thrives on its regulars, with many first-time guests quickly becoming part of the fold. A lively happy hour runs six days a week from 4 to 6 p.m., alongside weekly favorites like half-off select bottles every Wednesday. “And you have to try the French Onion Soup—it’ll change your life,” Smith smiles.

For wine novices and enthusiasts alike, their two-tiered Wine Club offers monthly pick-up parties with curated tastings and pairings. Plus, you get to take two bottles home. As for Smith’s personal preference? “I appreciate all varietals—but I’m reaching for big, bold, dry Cabernets. Dark fruit, high tannins—that’s my end-of-day glass.”

Find The Wine Bar at 664 Long Point Road, Unit G, in the Belle Hall Shopping Center, follow @thewinebarbyjosh and go to thewinebarmtp.com. Call or text us at 843-849-5185.

Wine Recommendations

J.P. Chenet Blanc de Blancs Brut 

This sparkling Brut from the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France is perfect for the patio in the summer. Featuring only white wines (predominantly Chardonnay with a bit of Trebbiano blended), this wine is a great expression of lime zest and mouth-watering acidity. The extra small bubbles leave a lasting finish and make you ready for the next sip. 

Villa Matilde Falanghina

This is a dry white wine from the Campania region of Italy. My appreciation for it lies in the extremely light florality, strong mineral finish, and stainless-steel aging. Light-bodied, crisp, and refreshing. 

J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines Wildflower Valdiguié

This wine from Monterey, California, has become The Wine Bar’s staple chilled red. In the heat of the summer, this light to medium-bodied wine has a unique purple color and hints of blueberry and raspberry.  Acidity and not a great deal of tannins make this wine juicy and drinkable. 

Cade Cabernet 

This is one of my favorite wines, year-round, from Howell Mountain in Napa Valley, California. Famed for its mountain fruit, it is the perfect cabernet for the warmer months. While its fruit is brighter and more vibrant than valley floor fruit, fear not! It still characterizes Napa cabernet perfectly. Cherry and cedar notes give way to a strong tannin-filled finish with lasting flavor.