Caleb Wines is about to begin construction on Corkbar, a sleek new wine bar in the emerging downtown L.A. neighborhood of South Park. Wines is the principal partner, but he’s collaborating with Garry Muir, Craig Hoffman, Chris Schiffman and John McGonigle.

Ana Henton and Gregory Williams of MASS Architecture & Design are crafting the southeast corner of the EVO building. MASS has previous wine-related experience from designing Silverlake Wine, Bacaro L.A. and Vinoteque. Wines uses the phrase “wine country chic” to describe MASS’ design, which he considers “rustic and casual, with upscale elements…Our design partner MASS have done an incredible job of weaving a combination of materials into the design that subtly play on elements of the wine country.”

“We see downtown as an emerging landscape and we want to be part of the amazing growth and revitalization,” says Wines. “Downtown has an incredible density of urban upscale residents and workforce that fits our project perfectly.”

When asked what differentiates Corkbar from other L.A. wine bars, Wines said, ”Most so-called “wine bars” in Los Angeles are really glorified restaurants. The other wine bars focus on “old world” wines. Corkbar will specialize in California wines…There is a huge market for some of the world’s best and most accessible wines from right in our own backyard.” The wine list will spotlight each winery, so the vintner is front and center. “We also want to communicate the wine descriptions,” says Wines. “For example, if we have three or four Sauvignon Blanc wines on or menu, we want to be able to share the differences and get people excited about trying wine from different vintners.”

Wines is working with a consulting chef on a menu that will feature “seasonal Farmer’s Market inspired fresh food that, of course, pairs well with wine.” Expect sandwiches, salads, entrees and small plates.

In case you were wondering (which you probably were), having the last name of Wines didn’t mean Caleb was pre-ordained to work with wine. He says, “I wish I had a great story about that, but really I just like wine. My brother doesn’t even drink! Go figure.”

“If all of the construction and permit Gods are in our favor, we could be open in December or January,” says Wines.