I think all wine lovers can understand why Hemingway said, “My only regret in life is that I did not drink more wine.” There’s something about those fermented grapes that changes everything. A cold winter’s evening is transformed by sipping a robust Malbec at one of the snug wine bars in Cincinnati. Drinking white wine from a stemless glass in the summer is transcendent. Whether it’s an ingredient in a cocktail or a moment of respite after a long day, wine is something special.
Did you know that Ohio is one of the top 10 wine-producing states and produces more than 1.2 million gallons every year? And The Queen City, Cincinnati, was once the center of the American wine industry. Fortunately, this appreciation of wine remains present across the city. From a lively urban winery to educational classes, there are plenty of places to experience wine in Cincinnati.
1. Crafts and Vines
Crafts and Vines is a cozy spot in Covington for a glass of wine and a light bite. Sample quality wines sourced from various wine regions or taste their locally brewed craft beer. Go full connoisseur on the charcuterie board and select your favorite cheeses and meats from the menu. You can always opt for the black truffle burrata or pretzel bites with spicy mustard for something a little bit different. Crafts and Vines also host wine-tasting events, so keep an eye out on their website.
🍷MainStrasse Village, 642 Main Street, Covington
2. Marty’s Hops and Vines
Whether it’s Chef Ben’s Taco Wednesday, a classic acoustic live music performance, or a Friday night wine tasting, there’s always something happening at Marty’s Hops and Vines. Visit this 1920s building and enjoy a casual tipple surrounded by character. From an aromatic Reisling to an oaked California Chardonnay to a lush Malbec, variety is not an issue at Marty’s Hops and Vines. If you’re looking to upgrade your wine vessels, you can find a selection of glassware and other wine-related accessories in their store.
🍷6110 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati
3. Oakley Wines
Oh My! This wine bar and bottle shop in Oakley is everything you want when it comes to the realm of enotecas and food and wine pairings. Oakley Wines specialize in organically grown wines from small producers. In the evening, you can head down to the speakeasy-style Cellar to sample some of the wines on offer. Chef David Saffles has designed a simple and tasty menu proving less is definitely more. A selection of cheeses from a specialty shop in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood and mussels served in a lobster broth are some of the delicious dishes you’ll find at Oakley.
🍷4011 Allston St, Cincinnati
4. Revel OTR
Revel is an urban winery in Cincinnati with a relaxed, homey vibe. The initial goal of the team at Revel was to produce an honest product—“everyday wine for everybody”. Grapes for the wine are primarily sourced in California and Washington. Every inch of the rustic space is thoughtfully designed; the first floor mirrors the atmosphere of your kitchen with high tables and stools. Head to Revel and listen to some old-school hip-hop while sipping on a glass of Cabernet or one of their seasonal wine cocktails.
🍷111 E 12th St, Cincinnati
5. Ripple Wine Bar
“Don’t freak out, it’s just wine” at Ripple Wine Bar. This quirky wine bar in Covington wants you to experience wine without any pressure whether you are a novice or an expert. There are bottled classics and newer wines on their extensive wine list for you to choose from. If you’re feeling peckish, you can pair your wine with its traditional partner, a charcuterie board, or try the shrimp nachos and Sicilian flatbread.
🍷4 W Pike St, Covington
6. EMMA Wine Bar
EMMA Wine Bar is anything but ordinary. You can browse and taste various wines using self-service wine dispensers. A stylish tasting room also provides the setting for a fascinating monthly wine class. Take a trip around the world of wine where you’ll learn the basics of varietals and so much more. Experience something different at this chic wine bar in Cincinnati on Riverside Drive.
🍷3227 Riverside Dr, Cincinnati
7. Unwind Wine Bar
When one thinks of a wine bar, brick walls, and candlelight images automatically come to mind. Unwind Wine Bar’s decor is the perfect balance of warmth and rusticity. Stone and wood textures, a fireplace, and bottles everywhere you turn create the right atmosphere to appreciate great wines. Indulge in apple and fig crostini or an artisan cheese board while sipping on a full-bodied red.
🍷3435 Michigan Ave, Cincinnati