Where to Drink
There are more and more wine bars each year, here are some of our favourites.
Owned and operated by three friends who share a passion for wine. They have 100 wines on their list to drink by the glass or purchase by the bottle.
A lively neighbourhood just between St. Michel and the Marché des Capucins (one of the oldest markets oldest in France and it rightfully carries the title 'The belly of Bordeaux’). What better place to try their wine list.
A much-needed addition to Saint-Émilion in a modern setting which was once the local pottery museum. This little gem of a wine bar is owned by two sommeliers – Charles and Dany – who can guide your wine exploration and provide recommendations on what to do in the area. They also serve cheese, foie gras and charcuterie.
Owner Giancarlo Savini serves predominantly Italian wine at his bar including the likes of Ornellaia, Sassicaia, Masseto, Gaja and Altare at reasonable prices. Up to 60 wines are available by the glass, accompanied by a range of bruschetta and Italian cured meat and cheese.
First growths, such as Yquem and Cheval Blanc make an appearance in the Enomatic machines at Le Millésime. Co-owned by VINIV winemaking client Philippe Francy and Fréderic Heraut, the dynamic duo keep adding wines to a list which already features over 120, so there is no shortage of choice when deciding what to enjoy with the Kobe beef carpaccio or mini-burgers. It’s a see-and-be-seen hotspot for the jet-set Bordelais and rugby enthusiasts.
As a reminder of what Bordeaux wine is all about, it is worth visiting the CIVB Bar à Vin located on the ground floor of the distinctive flat iron building. The list includes wines from some of the lesser-known appellations and sommeliers are on hand to pour wines which demonstrate the affect of different terroirs or the differences between the Left and Right bank.
In the shadow of Porte Cailhau, this bar stocks over 200 wines, most of which are non-Bordeaux.
Despite its size, the blackboards of this little wine bar boast over 150 wines from the 4 corners of France, many of which are organic or biodynamic. The choice of what to eat is equally attractive with specialties including black pudding macaroons, lamb and mint nems and truffle toasted cheese sandwiches.