Best Bets
Best Wine Bars
Fritz | Updated 10/27/2008
Wine bars have exploded in the Washington area in recent years, but the ones that follow offer something extra -- great flight selections, free tastings -- that set them apart.
Adega Wine Cellars & Cafe
Silver Spring, MD
In a setting that combines a community coffeeshop, wine store and bookstore cafe, sip a glass of wine at the bar, or purchase a bottle and enjoy it in the restaurant without a corkage charge.
Bistrot Lepic
Washington, DC
The dimly lit second-floor wine bar is prime date territory. The well-curated selection of French wines by the glass shines, and on Tuesday, happy hour means free samples.
Cork Wine Bar
Washington, DC
If you can get past the crowds waiting for a table, check the chalkboard for the latest wine flights and deals. A very good selection of snacks pairs well with whatever's in your glass.
Enology
Washington, DC
American wines get drowned out by French and Australian selections at many wine bars, but not at the modern-looking Enology, where everything is made in the U.S., including the spirits.
Proof
Washington, DC
Crowds at the restaurant can be large, but wait it out for a seat and you can enjoy an ever-rotating list of wines by the glass, or a sparkling treat from the sommelier's champagne cart.
Sonoma
Washington, DC
There are three dozen wines available by the glass in the crowded restaurant downstairs, but it's more enjoyable to escape to the airy upstairs lounge, where stylish couches surround a fireplace.
Veritas
Washington, DC
It's always loud and crowded, but Veritas' prime Dupont location and broad selection -- 68 wines by the glass, dozens of flights -- make up for any problems with volume.
Vidalia
Washington, DC
Every weekday, Vidalia's sommelier offers complimentary tastes of two or three different wines in the restaurant's lounge. Find out what you like, then order a glass at the bar.
Vinoteca
Washington, DC
A sunny room and a sunnier outdoor patio are the perfect setting for Vinoteca's pleasant, affordable wines. Stop by for happy hour, when around 20 glasses go for $5 each.
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