Post Overview: Best Wine Bars in Portland, Oregon
Portland has an impressive reputation, you can’t throw a stick without hitting a brewery, award-winning restaurant or witnessing an absurd scene you’d sooner forget.
But here’s something that often falls under the radar: the city is no stranger to good wine either. If you’ve ever spent a weekend exploring the wineries in Willamette Valley (here’s my personal roundup), you probably know what I mean.
But before we begin, let’s address the elephant in the room: by and large, wine bars have a tendency to feel “stuck up” at best and haughty at worst. For reasons unbeknownst to me, wine bars fell victim to reputation of pretentiousness that has kept them mysterious far too long.
Thankfully, the tide is shifting and casual wine drinking is becoming more approachable, especially among millennials. Cocktails and brews are slowly taking the back seat to velvety reds and sharp chardonnays.
I’m in the same boat myself. I find that most of my girlfriends prefer meeting at Portland wine bars lately, as opposed to hip cocktail bars (if that’s just a sign of getting older, please don’t tell me).
As such, I’ve explored most of the best wine bars in Portland and wanted to share my personal list of favorites based on firsthand experience. Let’s get to it!
Best Wine Bars in Portland, Oregon
(Click here for the table of contents)
Division Wines
No matter how extensive your wine knowledge is, you’re bound to have a great time at Division Wines. Part-wine bar, part-wine shop, this gem features an impressive selection of more than 800 bottles from all corners of the world.
The wine bar specializes in expressive wines from European regions, but you can find wines from anywhere at this locale. A little closer to home, you’ll find a thoughtful selection of locally-sourced small plates too. Expect the usual suspects: tasty charcuterie boards, smoked fish and fresh bread from neighboring bakeries.
When my husband and I visited, we opted for the wine flight and within one sip agreed this was one of the best wine bars in Portland. Overwhelmed by the tantalizing options, we went with the “dealer’s choice” (owner’s recommendation of 3 wines) and wow – each wine was more impressive than the last.
I wouldn’t have tried those specific wines had it not been for Will Prouty, the owner. Will and his wife, Danyelle, opened Division Wines in 2011 and don’t show signs of slowing anytime soon.
It’s not uncommon to find them behind the bar, eagerly sharing their knowledge and passion without anyone asking questions. The setting is relaxed and casual, this local spot has a very welcoming vibe. You’re just as likely to come across awkward first-date introductions as you’re old friends catching up at this charming Portland wine bar.
Enso Winery
Following the lead of many great names before them (Apple, Google and Disney, to name a few), Enso Winery opened its (garage) doors to the public Memorial Day 2011.
Focusing on quality over quantity, the folks behind Enso Winery hand craft old-world style wines using grapes sourced from vineyards in Washington, California and Oregon. This Portland wine bar produces around 1,000 cases of small-batch wine per year, all within city limits.
Opened within a converted garage, the mastermind behind the operation is Ryan Sharp. Trained on the sunny banks of the Willamette River, Sharp pursued an ambitious goal: produce world-class wines in the heart of Portland. Thankfully, he delivered.
The wines produced at this wine bar aren’t distributed commercially, so the only way to get your hands on them is to visit the winery.
Expect to find refreshing classics like Grüner Veltliner and the (beloved) Mourvèdre, alongside full-bodied reds like Cabernet Franc. The wine pairs perfectly with the generous charcuterie boards offered (made with locals meats and cheeses) and the divine chocolates.
If you’re coming to this Portland wine bar with a die-hard beer fan, fret not. The menu includes local northwest beers and ciders as well to ensure everyone leaves happy.
Stem Wine Bar
Tucked into Mississippi Avenue, Stem Wine Bar offers something every local loves: great wine, cozy vibes and a generous bring-your-own food policy. You’ll also find one of the best wine tastings in Portland.
Choose between rosés, whites or reds and prepare to be impressed. The focus at this elegant wine bar is to share wines from independent winemakers in Oregon. Keen to contribute to the community, there’s a great weekly rotation of fun events.
From live music and painting classes to complimentary tastings, check out the wine bar’s events calendar here.
Bar Diane
Bar Diane is home to one of the most impressive natural wine selections in Portland. Served in a bright and colorful space, it’s no surprise that locals consider this one of the best wine bars in Portland.
The star of the show (apart from the great selection of rosé) is the covered patio, which is perfect for summer date nights. Wine is served by the bottle and glass, but I typically opt for full bottle service here because the atmosphere is so relaxed.
In terms of food, this is a great spot for small bites (the tinned seafood is so French) and hearty entrees (don’t sleep on the steak). The gals behind this Portland wine bar know their stuff.
Bar Diane is a staple in my summer itinerary, especially when I’m in the mood to try new wines. There’s always something exciting on offer, but I’m partial to the rosés and sparking wines (although I’ve been known to dabble with a sherry every now and then, too).
Local’s Tip: If you’re a big seafood fan make sure to order the oysters and mussels.
Frank Wine Bar
Yet another great Portland wine bar that stems from a wine shop, Frank’s can’t be missed. Located in the trendy South Waterfront neighborhood, the constantly-changing menu will keep you on your toes. Swing by for the lively patio, extensive wine list and warm service.
This wine bar is especially cozy on a rainy day when the massive floor-to-ceiling windows provide a sense of protection from the moody weather. Sip your glass while the rain serves as a soothing backdrop to a cozy evening indoors at one of the best wine bars in Portland.
M Bar
Half of me wants to keep this wine bar in Portland a secret because I enjoy it so much, but that wouldn’t be fair because they deserve the love. Located two blocks from my old apartment in Northwest, this is where I’d start most Friday afternoons with a girlfriend in tow.
This cozy Portland wine bar couldn’t be cuter if it tried. Seating less than 10 folks inside and 10 folks outside, you’ll need to be okay rubbing elbows with strangers-turned-acquaintances by the second glass.
The candle-lit locale gives this Portland wine bar a mellow vibe, which pairs perfectly with the hand-picked wine list. Don’t expect to thumb through chapters of options, they keep things simple with a limited wine selection, which is part of the draw.
As for food? It’s not complicated. One cheese board is on offer, take it or leave it (but I say take it). If you’re meeting up with someone that loves beer more than wine (imagine!), fret not. M Bar has a great selection of local brews as well.
Les Caves & Les Clos
A great deal of natural wine drinking takes place at Les Caves, often considered one of the best natural wine bars in Portland. This dimly-lit subterranean bar has cozy vibes few can resist falling in love with.
Keeping a focus exclusively on natural wines, you’ll find options from all over the world. But between you and me, the best wines come from the owners’ personal brands: Golden Cluster and Ovum Wines.
The hardest thing about this popular Portland wine bar is finding the entrance. You can easily walk by without knowing where to turn. You’ll need to dip into an unassuming corner and then head downstairs (lifelong locals may remember this as the boiler room of the old Victoria Theater).
If the idea of a boiler room turned wine bar cave is a bit much to handle, simply head upstairs to Les Clos — the covered patio version of this popular Portland wine bar. You’ll be serve the same great wines by the same knowledgeable staff, it’s a win-win.
Oh, and lest I forget. The second-hardest thing about visiting the great Portland wine bar is getting a reservation, Advance reservations are highly recommended.
Fullerton Wines
Perhaps moreso than any other wine bar in Portland, Fullerton Wines strives to make wine drinking more approachable. Located three blocks from NW 23rd Avenue, this place is a hidden gem few tourists stumble across.
Pity, because this Portland wine bar has three things going for it: top-notch wine, fresh seasonal dishes and (arguably) the friendliest service you’ll find in the City of Roses.
Hailing from Willamette Valley, the refined wines are truly top-notch. Offered by the bottle or glass, the wines are made by expert winemaker Alex Fullerton who got his start in the industry fresh out of college at the University of Oregon.
A world traveler, his mastery of wine-making is proven by the indulgent Pinot noirs gracing most tables. As for the food, I never miss an opportunity to order the oysters or burrata salad. If you need a bigger meal, don’t sleep on the cheeseburger, which is a strong contender for one of the best in the city.
Muse Wine Bar
I discovered Muse Wine Bar innocently enough. A coworker invited me for drinks and introduced me to a wine bar mere steps from my apartment door. Impressed by the warm service, relaxed vibe and well-hand-picked wine list, I promptly returned a few days later with some girlfriends in tow and have since added this lovely Portland wine bar to my monthly rotation.
Offering traditional bar snacks and delectable charcuterie boards from local purveyors, this is the perfect wine bar for pre-dinner drinks, a cozy first date or a relaxing midday break. But take note, this is one of the smaller wine bars in Portland, so make reservations in advance!
Erath Winery Tasting Room
Erath Winery has been making wines in Oregon for four decades. Best known for their hearty Pinot noirs, it’s the fascinating history of the founder that keeps me coming back.
The man behind the brand, Dick Erath, started producing wine in his garage in 1965. He decided to move his family from California to Dundee Hills, Oregon with a dream of starting a winery. By 1972, he produced his first commercial cases, which became the first official wine production from the Dundee Hills.
Erath is credited with importing French grape varietals to Oregon as early as 1974. Thankfully, you don’t need to drive to Willamette Valley to get your hands on these beautiful pours, simply pop over to the new tasting room in the Pearl District.
Between the interesting history, delicious wines, great ambiance and friendly service, it’s no surprise that Erath is considered one of the best wine bars in Portland.
You can choose between tasting flights, glasses and bottles. If it’s your first visit, I highly suggest the tasting flight (you never know what you’re going to find).
Corkscrew Wine Bar in Portland
Like most Portlanders, Corkscrew Wine Bar appeared on my radar while I was waiting in line for sushi at Saburo’s. Located right next door to the popular haunt, this wine bar is a great stop before (or after) a filling sushi dinner.
You’ll find interesting (and rare) wines alongside more affordable options. Pair your glass with the tasty bites offered. If you’re interested in hard-to-find Oregon wines, make sure to sign up for the wine club (no fee to sign up, but you need to commit to purchasing 3-6 bottles per month).
Local’s Tip: Corkscrew Wine Bar doesn’t take reservations. First-come, first-served.
Portland Wine Bars Inside Restaurants (Best of Both Worlds)
Dame
Dame is a beloved restaurant with an attractive teal-hued interior few can resist. Co-founded by the mastermind behind Bar Norman, Dana Frank has proven her salt in the world of wine selection.
The food is the biggest draw, but locals know to show up for the ambitious list of natural wines from Willamette Valley. For what it’s worth, Frank herself has shared that people want to label Dame a Portland wine bar because of the strong emphasis on wine, but she considers it a restaurant with a wine bar. Only one way to find out, no?
Canard
Here’s an unpopular opinion: The Portland wine bar concept is fairly new in our city. It seems like Portland is slowly getting the hang of it, so growing pains are bound to ensue.
Most places are searching for the perfect balance between restaurant and wine bar, but none excels better than Canard. This place makes you feel like a million bucks (without having to dip into the dusty trust fund, mind).
Neighboring its highly-acclaimed sister restaurant Le Pigeon (which offers the best tasting menu in Portland), you’ll find the the perfect middle ground. Down to earth wine paired with creative bites inspired by age-old classics demanding your full attention.
It’s always a toss up between what will be more memorable, the exceptional wine or mouth-watering food. Does the Pinot take down the fried chicken wings? You’ll have to find out for yourself.
Arden
Arden is yet another Portland wine bar that beautifully balances restaurant and bar. Best known for fun themed dinners and an extensive list of local wines, it’s hard to think of a better date night idea.
Located in the trendy Pearl District, Arden is a hot spot for serious foodies. To get a proper full experience make reservations for the chef’s prix fixe menu with the wine pairing. (The wine pairing is listed as optional, but it’s non-negotiable in my book).
Enoteca Nostrana
A sister restaurant to Nostrana (one of the best restaurants in Portland), Enoteca Nostrana is one of the best wine bars in Portland for those in search of local wines. Wines can be paired with knock-out food options like the pasta dishes and Italian pizzas (served the traditional way: whole with a side of scissors).
I love swinging by Enoteca Nostrana in the late evening hours (weekdays, of course) when the chance of snagging a table is a possibility. If you’re coming during the weekend, make sure to make reservations well in advance.
Best Wine Bars in Portland, Oregon (Post Summary)
In sum, here’s a quick roundup of the best wine bars in Portland.
- Enso Winery
- Fullerton Wines
- Bar Norman
- Muse Wine Bar
- Erath Winery Tasting Room
- Frank Wine Bar
- Les Caves
- Corkscrew Wine Bar
- Stem Wine Bar
- Bar Diane
- Dame
- M Bar
- Canard
- Arden
- Enoteca Nostrana
- Division Wines
Worth Knowing: Oregon Wine Facts
| If you’re interested, here’s some fun facts about Oregon wine: |
| Oregon produces around 1% of the country’s wine yet earned 20% of Wine Spectator’s domestic 90+ ratings in 2015 and 2016. In “regular people speech” this simply means our state makes some knock-out wines! Quality over quantity. |
| Home to more than 908 wineries (not a typo), Oregon is the 4th-most wine producing state in the country. |
| Oregon has 19 certified wine growing regions that span the length of the state from north to south. Featuring more than 700 wineries, the impressive Willamette Valley is undoubtedly the gold standard in terms of wine producing regions. |
| But don’t just take my word for it, acclaimed New York Times wine critic Eric Asimov called Willamette Valley “the country’s most exciting wine area.” |
| In terms of grapes, Oregon’s flagship varietal is the Pinot noir, followed by Pinot gris and Chardonnay. Worth mention, Oregon is regarded as one of the premier Pinot-producing regions in the world. Have a glass and see what all the fuss is about. |
Map of the best Portland wine bars
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Cheers!
