9 Must-Visit Wine Bars Across the U.S. (#4 Is Award Winning)

If your idea of a perfect evening involves swirling a glass of Pinot Noir or savoring the crisp notes of a Chardonnay, you’re in for a treat. From cozy urban hideaways to countryside retreats, there are plenty of wine bars across the country that offer more than just a drink — they deliver an entire experience.

Whether you’re planning a road trip or cashing in points from your top rewards credit cards, these destinations are worth raising a glass to.

Mermaid Winery in downtown Norfolk offers wine lovers a sip of history in what was once a bank building built in 1908 and is now a national landmark. With 800 wines from around the globe, you’ll find the perfect pour to pair with their irresistible grazing boards, featuring treats like 6-month-aged manchego and house-cured salmon.

The open, airy space and gorgeous architecture make it a must-visit spot to stretch your restaurant budget without sacrificing elegance or flavor.

Noble Riot is shaking up Denver’s wine scene with its laid-back vibe and natural wine selection. 

Whether you’re sipping alongside their award-winning fried chicken or popping in after a show next door at Nocturne Jazz and Supper Club (under the same ownership), every visit feels like an adventure.

Their ever-changing menu, built around regional or thematic selections, means there’s always something new to discover. The knowledgeable staff and wine classes make learning just as delightful as tasting.

Brooklyn’s first natural wine bar has been dazzling customers since the summer of 2015. With a cozy, dimly-lit interior and a heated patio perfect for sipping under the stars, this spot sets the vibe just right. Pair your wine with elevated small plates like hamachi crudo or Spanish mackerel, or snack on a carefully-selected cheese plate, among other selections.

One reviewer raves, “Loved this wine bar! Everything was great including the ambiance, the service, the food, and obviously the wine; Not a single bad thing.”

Head over to haley.henry wine bar in Downtown Crossing to enjoy their natural and responsibly sourced wines alongside a light, seafood-forward menu. Think cheese, crudo, and tinned fish with a global flair.

Owned by industry superstar Haley Fortier — who was named one of Food & Wine’s “2019 Sommeliers of the Year” — this 2024 James Beard semi-finalist is perfect for discovering hidden wine gems.

Lucian Books & Wine, located in Buckhead, is where wine meets literary chic. Inspired by London’s iconic Maison Assouline and named after artist Lucian Freud, this spot invites you to sip and shop at the same time.

With 250 to 300 expertly curated bottles on the list, there’s a pour for everyone. Pair your wine with lunch or dinner, and don’t forget to explore the specialty bookshop for a read as captivating as your glass.

Le Caviste, nestled in downtown Seattle, brings the charm of a French wine bar stateside with a thoughtfully curated selection of French vintages and wine-based apéritifs. Pair your glass with their delectable small bites for the full experience.

As one guest perfectly put it, “Really lovely spot to go with friends. The food is wonderful, the wine selection is spot on. The staff and owner are also extremely welcoming!”

This wine and beer bar in Chicago’s Humboldt Park neighborhood has been setting the mood since 2009 with its dark, romantic vibe. You can stop by and sit directly at the bar or opt for a cozier table along the wall. Known for small-production wine and beers, many with a focus on natural farming practices, the list is always fresh and exciting.

Pair your glass with small bites like fried almonds, East Coast oysters, or creamer burrata.

Nestled in Dallas’ Lakewood neighborhood, Times Ten Cellars is a favorite among both locals and visitors. This wine bar focuses on small-production wines sourced from both Texas and California.

Whether you’re lounging in the cozy tasting room, getting some fresh air on the patio, or settling into the lounge, there’s always a perfect spot to savor their creations. In addition to the extensive wine list, Times Ten Cellars features a full kitchen with Mediterranean-inspired dishes.

Flight Cleveland is your go-to spot in Gordon Square for all things wine. With over 400 bottles, 29 wines on tap, and 12 wine flights to choose from, it’s a vino lover’s dream! Opened in 2018, this shop and bar keeps it fun and approachable.

If you’re bringing someone who isn’t a wine fan, they’ve also got three awesome beers on tap too. Take a look at their Flight Club subscription, which curates selections of three, six, or 12 bottles every three months.

Whether you’re discovering wine bars in your own neighborhood or traveling across the country for a new experience, there’s something for every wine lover on this list. 

And if you’re looking to save money on travel, many of these destinations are perfect for a quick getaway that won’t break the bank. Cheers to discovering new favorites without the hefty price tag!