Like most cities in Colorado, ours is known for its incredible craft breweries and taprooms, but we can’t forget to give our local wine options the attention they deserve. Several spots around town serve both Old World and locally sourced wines, and every one of them is worth checking out. Here are some of my top picks for Boulder’s best spots for wine enthusiasts:
Frasca Food & Wine
Frasca Food & Wine is one of Boulder’s finest and most touted restaurants, as well as one of my personal favorites. It holds an impressive selection of bottles in its cellar, and much to the delight of our local wine drinkers, is owned by James Beard winner, World Renowned Master Sommelier, and winner of Wine Enthusiast’s 2015 Sommelier of the Year 2015, Bobby Stuckey. Asking Bobby to match your meal (chosen from Frasca’s extensive and delicious Italian menu) to a glass or bottle of a perfectly-paired wine is a luxury. On Monday nights, Frasca features a weekly rotating label paired with a special four-course tasting menu. Visit the restaurant’s website or follow its Facebook page for updates on the Monday wine dinners.
Amaro Drinkery Italia
The team behind Arugula Ristorante opened the wine lounge, Amaro Drinkery Italia, back in 2011. Amaro’s happy hour specials became a fast favorite for Boulder locals, making this the perfect place to wind down after a long day at the office. Amaro’s wine selection pairs well with its assortment of charcuterie and specialty cheeses, but you can also order off of the restaurant’s full menu at the bar.
SiP
If you’re looking for a more casual atmosphere, head over to SiP, which serves coffee by day and beer and wine by night. The bar features an assortment of wines that you can enjoy in its cozy indoor setting or outdoor patio with views of the Flatirons. SiP is a welcoming spot and the friendly service can’t be beat.
PMG
The latest addition to Boulder’s wine scene is quickly building a loyal following. PMG opened its doors last August to rave reviews, and in this case, you should definitely believe everything you read. You’re sure to love the cultural indulgence you’ll experience when you walk through its doors, which includes a heavy focus on boutique European wineries and a tasty selection of Mediterranean-inspired seasonal dishes. Stop by the next time you’re on the west end of Pearl.
Basta
Although Basta is technically a pizzeria, it also features one of Boulder’s best wine menus. In addition to its popular wood fired oven pizza, the eatery offers a selection of appetizers, salads, and large plates. Basta’s wine list features 10 by-the-glass options and over 30 bottles, including an assortment of reds, whites, bubblies, and rosés.
Oak
The owner of Oak at Fourteenth, Bryan Dayton, has over 15 years experience as a bartender and is a certified Sommalier who oversaw Frasca’s beverage program before opening his own restaurant. Oak has been written up in Food & Wine and Wine Enthusiast magazines. They also have an amazing seasonally inspired menu that pairs perfectly with their hand-selected wine menu as well as Dayton’s original cocktails. Oak additionally has a very creative non-alcoholic drink menu and is the perfect place to bring wine lovers and those who aren’t.
Boulder Wine Merchant
For something a bit different, treat yourself to a wine tasting event coordinated by Boulder Wine Merchant. Besides being a great way to spend an evening, it also provides a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow wine lovers and taste something new before you splurge on a bottle to take home. Stay up-to-date on current wine specials, wine tastings, and other events by signing up for their newsletter. Trust me; you don’t want to miss anything that Boulder Wine Merchant has to offer.
I absolutely love every restaurant and bar on this list, and I think you will, too. Whether you like drinking a Pinot with pizza or unwinding with a glass of Sauv Blanc after work, Boulder has many bar and restaurant options to satisfy your personal wine tastes. Visit one of our favorites to enjoy an old favorite or to try something new. Which are some of your go-to’s around town? Share them in the space below!