For oenophiles and those just learning to discern between a cabernet sauvignon and merlot, Miami’s wine bars have something to offer any palate. Settings extend from formal restaurants to charming bistros; some places boast an extensive list of labels, while others maintain a carefully curated collection.
Well-loved brands and vintages are also stocked alongside new producers emerging on the market for visitors to Miami to enjoy a familiar sip or discover a new favorite. Offering an enlightening experience, sommeliers are ready to share the story behind each bottle and recommend the perfect pairings, whether that means a cheese plate, tapas or a full gourmet meal.
With so many choices around town, narrowing down the right bar for the evening requires some assistance. Luckily, Miami’s premier hotel concierges are well-versed in the best places to go for an unrivaled experience to match any mood or occasion. So, uncork a bottle or order a glass or two, and enjoy the moment.
The Dutch
“The Dutch [at W South Beach’s] wine list is 400 bins and, like the food, is focused on quality over quantity. With many rare vintages of the most exclusive labels, it offers tremendous depth and is a connoisseur’s dream. With the newest luxury-by-the-glass list pushing 45 wines, even the best labels are available and affordable. The Dutch also has a private wine room where you can enjoy these beautiful labels in an alluring environment.” (2201 Collins Ave., Miami Beach; 305-938-3111; thedutchmiami.com) —Ralph Chaoul, W insider at W South Beach
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
“Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar [is] located on the corner of Ponce de Leon Boulevard and Andalusia, one block from the historic Miracle Mile. Here, you’ll find a passion for steak and wine reflected in an exceptional steak menu, featuring hand-selected premium steaks and an award-winning list of 100 wines by the glass [in a sophisticated space with rustic finishes].” (2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Coral Gables; 305-569-7995; flemingssteakhouse.com) —Kamal Kanahan, guest relations manager at Trump International Beach Resort
Uvaggio
“Located in Coral Gables—known for its over-the-top restaurants and beautiful homes, and yet a relaxed feeling—Uvaggio is the place where locals and visitors alike love to meet and enjoy … a large, handpicked variety of excellent wines. They also have different events, like a wine tasting on Saturdays, where Master Sommelier Heath Porter will walk you through the world of wines.” (70 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305-448-2400; uvaggiowine.com) —Giovanni Attardi, chef concierge at The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami
Chef Adrianne’s Vineyard Restaurant and Wine Bar
“Chef Adrianne [Calvo] has an impeccable background, from her upbringing to huge achievements. … In 2003, she was the youngest chef to cook for the United Nations. Chef Adrianne’s Vineyard Restaurant and Wine Bar is the result of her love for food and wine. The location is unusual—away from the big crowds that you can encounter in South Beach or Midtown … but perfect for her unique concept of the right ambience. Not too bright, not too dark, [with] wood, wine barrels in the walls, white tablecloths … just perfect.” (11510 S.W. 147th Ave.; 305-408-8386; chefadriannes.com) —Giovanni Attardi, chef concierge at The Ritz-Carlton Bal Harbour, Miami
Happy Wine
“Coconut Grove is known for a true local’s experience and Happy Wine is not the exception. Offering a great tapas menu and excellent prices, this is one of the best local wine bars in town. Insider tip? If a live singer starts performing, make sure to rush your drinks or you will find yourself singing until closing.” (2833 Bird Ave., Coconut Grove; 305-460-9939; happywinemiami.com) —Fernando Pochulu, chef concierge at Four Seasons Hotel Miami
Seasons 52
“Seasons 52 in Coral Gables offers red and white wine stations, and staff that has clearly been trained by their master sommelier, George Miliotes. The wine menu itself is helpful and descriptive, but the bartenders at the wine stations know an exceptional amount of detail about what you are drinking, and are happy to help you discover new wines from their fantastic selection. They have options by the glass and by the bottle, and a great menu to pair with it.” (321 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305-442-8552; seasons52.com) —Melany Ramsay, concierge at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach
The Cheese Course
“The Cheese Course, located in Midtown—this simple wine bar is excellent for those looking for more than a glass of wine. With one of the best selections of cheeses from around the globe, many local wine aficionados stop by for a quick pairing on the go.” (3250 N.E. First Ave., Ste. 100; 786-220-6681; thecheesecourse.com) —Fernando Pochulu, chef concierge at Four Seasons Hotel Miami
Cibo Wine Bar
“Cibo Wine Bar in Coral Gables, [which] … opened in October 2011 … has a nice relaxed atmosphere along with a great Italian cuisine and a large selection of Italian wine that compares exquisitely with the menu. Cibo Wine Bar brings authentic Italian fare combined with an exceptional nightlife atmosphere.” (45 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; 305-442-4925; cibowinebar.com) —Ralph Chaoul, W insider at W South Beach
The Forge
“Join The Forge for its amazing cuisine, and experience the culture of wine and its different flavors, colors [and] textures by trying out the most expensive wine through the Enomatic wine machine. [It] will allow the most expensive bottles of wine to be served by the glass. You will be welcomed by a sommelier, who will teach you about the wine selection and each wine and its region … [until] you find the perfect fit for your palate.” (432 41st St., Miami Beach; 305-538-8533; theforge.com) —Maya Frenkiel, concierge supervisor at Acqualina Resort & Spa
Bunbury
“Bunbury in Wynwood … [is a] small and charming little shop. … “[It offers] a wide variety of wines you can pick straight from the shelf and accompany with great tapas/cheese platters.” Argentinean and American cuisine complements a wide selection of wine at this bar, which is housed in a former tire shop with an outdoor patio accessed through a roll-up garage door. Don’t miss the live music on Thursday nights. (2200 N.E. Second Ave.; 305-333-6929) —Melany Ramsay, concierge at The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach
—Written by Sharon Stello
