Paris. The City of Lights. The City of Love. And, of course, the City of Wine. But with so many options, where do you begin your wine-tasting adventure?
Forget the typical liquor store. Buying wine in Paris is a journey that goes beyond the taste. It’s about connecting with the land, the people, and the story behind each bottle. This is a spiritual experience that will leave you captivated.
The Heart of Wine: Where Passion Meets Perfection
This list isn’t just about finding the best wine shops in Paris. It’s about discovering passionate wine merchants who treat their craft as more than just a job—it’s a calling. They’re storytellers who want to share their knowledge and help you find the perfect bottle. So open your mind, be adventurous, and prepare to fall in love with a world of flavors.
L’Etiquette: Embracing the Natural
Nestled in the heart of Paris on the Île Saint Louis, L’Etiquette is a haven for natural wine enthusiasts. This unique wine shop is led by Hervé, a true wine specialist who’s passionate about showcasing low-intervention, rare finds.
Imagine discovering bottles made by young French winemakers that you won’t find anywhere else. Hervé is a wealth of knowledge, ready to share his expertise through one-hour wine tastings. He’ll guide you through the world of natural wine, leaving you inspired and eager to explore this exciting world.
Insider Tip: While you’re exploring the area around Notre Dame, you can store your luggage at L’Etiquette.
Crus et Découvertes: A Cave of Wine Wonders
Hidden in the 11th arrondissement, Crus et Découvertes is a treasure trove of wine for connoisseurs and curious novices alike. Two knowledgeable wine guys are ready to guide you through their amazing selection, sharing their expertise and helping you find the perfect bottle for any occasion.
Whether you’re celebrating, sharing drinks with friends, or enjoying a quiet night with a book, Crus et Découvertes offers a personalized experience that will leave you satisfied and enlightened. This isn’t just a shop; it’s a community of wine lovers eager to share their passion.
Bonus: Take a stroll down the charming backstreets and indulge in a delicious appetizer at nearby Terroirs d’Avenir before heading to celebrity baker Cyril Lignac’s La Pâtisserie for a perfect baguette.
Chai Sophie Côté Sud: Embracing the South of France
This charming little wine shop is named after its owner, Sophie, who shares her passion for winemakers who have a deep connection to the land. Chai Sophie Côté Sud specializes in the South of France, especially the Languedoc-Roussillon region.
This region, known for its bold, full-bodied reds, also boasts a surprising array of bright and light whites. You’ll definitely want to try the Languedoc winemaker Opi d’Aqui, a real surprise that will delight your taste buds.
Before visiting Chai Sophie, explore the nearby Marché d’Aligre, one of Paris’ only six-day-a-week markets. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Les Provinces, a butcher shop with tables (not for vegetarians!), before immersing yourself in the world of southern French wine.
La Cave des Papilles: A Natural Wine Mecca
This cellar is legendary among Parisian wine lovers, known for its championing of natural wine and small winemakers since 1996. La Cave des Papilles is a haven for natural wine enthusiasts, boasting an impressive selection of big names in the French natural wine scene.
You might even be lucky enough to meet the winemakers themselves! La Cave des Papilles hosts monthly wine tastings, where a different winemaker shares their passion with a crowd of enthusiastic fans. While the tastings are typically in French, the staff are fluent in English, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
Délicatessen: A Taste of Parisian Culture
Just steps from the trendy Marais district, Délicatessen is a treasure trove of wine, beer, and spirits. This family-run cellar is passionate about supporting small winemakers and craft breweries, offering bottles with personality.
Don’t miss the special selection of local Parisian beer! And if your feet need a rest, head to Délicatessen’s little bar next door, the perfect place to relax and enjoy a drink before heading home with your new finds.
Champagne Fleury: A Taste of Tradition
This family-run bar is a must-visit for Champagne lovers. The Fleury family has been crafting Champagne since 1895, using sustainable practices without pesticides or chemicals since 1989. The result? Exceptional Champagne that will tantalize your senses.
From L’Etiquette’s natural wine treasures to Délicatessen’s local Parisian beer, this list is your guide to discovering the soul of wine in Paris. It’s about more than just finding a bottle—it’s about experiencing a journey that will leave you enchanted and inspired. So, open your mind, explore the city’s hidden gems, and fall in love with the story behind each bottle.
