Who doesn't love a good glass of wine? Whether you're a fan of full-bodied Baco noirs or are more into light-hearted sparkling rosés, dining in a wine bar is the best way to do a little sampling, aside from heading over to the wineries themselves.
READ: The Top 10 Toronto Neighbourhoods For Young Professionals
So, where in Toronto can you do some wine tasting? The city is loaded with fantastic wine bars, each with their own unique experiences. Here are just a few that should make your shortlist.
Chez Nous Wine Bar
Where: 798 Queen St. E.Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday from 5 p.m. to late
Located in the Riverdale neighbourhood of downtown Toronto, Chez Nous Wine Bar is only stocked with Ontario wines, giving wine lovers a taste of what this vast province has to offer. To pair your tastings, you'll also get a sampling of cheeses and meats, chosen specifically to go well with your wine.
SIP Wine Bar
Where: 2 Broadway Ave.Hours: Monday to Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Sunday from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m.
There are plenty of incredible Italian wines to sip at this Yonge and Eglinton wine bar, which can be enjoyed even more with a rustic authentic pizza. The interior decor of the space is also reminiscent of the small towns throughout Italy, which is the closest thing you'll get to the real deal in Toronto.
Midfield Wine Bar
Where: 1434 Dundas St. W.Hours: Sunday to Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m., Thursday from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m., Friday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. and Saturday from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m.
The rustic interior decor of Midfield Wine Bar creates the perfect atmosphere within which to enjoy some fantastic wines. Those who prefer sampling by the glass without having to commit to a whole bottle have the benefit of trying absolutely anything on the menu by the glass.
Paris Paris
Where: 1161 Dundas St. W.Hours: Monday to Sunday from 12 p.m. to 2 a.m.
No hour of the day is off limits when it comes to enjoying a glass of wine or two at this relatively new wine bar in Toronto. Located at Dundas and Ossington, Paris Paris is filled with an impressive list of wines that can be enjoyed with the perfect carb-y snack, including french fries and house sourdough.
Reds Wine Tavern
Where: 77 Adelaide St. W.Hours: Monday to Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 12 a.m. and Thursday to Saturday from 11:30 a.m to 1 a.m.
This upscale wine tavern is located in the heart of the Financial District and boasts an extensive array of wines from around the world. In addition to buying by the bottle, guests also have a number of by-the-glass options — 24, to be exact. Enjoy your wine of choice with a delectable dish, from something as simple as truffle fries to something more elaborate like the filet and lobster.
Archive
Where: 909 Dundas St. W.Hours: Monday to Sunday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m.
The decor inside Little Italy's Archive wine bar is just as delicious as the wine itself. With an extensive list of wines — predominantly from Ontario — guests can get a well-rounded taste of what Ontario wine producers have to offer. Dishes of classically-paired foods — like prosciutto and bocconcini — will help enhance the wine tasting experience.
