Are you a wine lover looking for the perfect spot to indulge in your passion? Look no further than the Upper East Side, which offers some of the best wine bars in the city. From cozy intimate spaces to grand, luxurious venues, the UES has something for every palate. In this guide, we have curated a list of the best wine bars that are worth a visit.

The Upper East Side has long been associated with luxury living and culture, and the wine bars in the area reflect this. With a range of options catering to diverse tastes, these wine bars are sure to satisfy even the most discerning connoisseurs.

Candle 79 is one of the top-rated wine bars on the UES, offering over 150 biodynamic, organic, and sustainable wines to choose from. The cozy bar is perfect for an intimate evening of sipping wine and indulging in their vegan cheese platters.

For a more grandiose experience, Bemelmans Bar at the Carlyle Hotel is a must-visit. The Art Deco-inspired setting, classic cocktails, and premium wine selection make it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.

Bondurants, located on 2nd Avenue, is another great addition to the UES wine scene. The bar boasts an impressive collection of over 100 labels, with a focus on small-batch wines from lesser-known regions. Their friendly and expert staff are always on hand to help you select the perfect wine to suit your taste.

If you\’re looking for a wine bar with a European vibe, head over to Le Moulin a Cafe. This cozy spot offers a selection of natural and organic wines to pair with their delectable French pastries and snacks.

No guide to the best wine bars on the UES would be complete without mentioning The Mark Bar. Known for its elegant decor and expertly crafted cocktails, the bar also offers an impressive wine list with bottles from around the world. Their knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer suggestions and provide tasting notes.

Another great spot for wine lovers is Uva Wine & Spirits. This bright and airy wine bar boasts an extensive wine list of both old-world and new-world wines, with a focus on lesser-known labels. The bar also offers a range of delicious small plates to pair with your wine.

The Importance of a Great Wine Bar

Wine bars play an important role in the wine industry. They provide a space for people to learn about and explore new wines in a relaxed and informal setting. Wine bars also create a sense of community around wine, bringing together wine enthusiasts, sommeliers, and winemakers alike.

Through their curated wine lists, knowledgeable staff, and food pairings, wine bars offer a unique experience that cannot be replicated at home. They provide an opportunity to try new wines, discover new regions, and expand your palate.

The Best Wines to Try at These Bars

Each of the wine bars on our list offers a vast selection of wines, each with their own unique flavor profile. Here are a few standout wines to try at each of these wine bars:

• Candle 79: Try the Chablis 1er Cru Montmains Vieilles Vignes, Domaine Pinson, 2017
• Bemelmans Bar: Indulge in the 2015 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Round Pond Estate Rutherford
• Bondurants: Sample the 2015 Tenuta Mazzolino, Pinot Noir Oltrepo Pavese
• Le Moulin a Cafe: Sip on the Domaine De L\’ecu \”Classic\” Muscadet Sevre Et Maine 2018
• The Mark Bar: Try the 2016 Chateau Montrose St. Estephe Bordeaux
• Uva Wine & Spirits: Enjoy the 2017 Jochen Beurer Gutswein Rose

The Role of Organic and Sustainable Wines

The demand for organic and sustainable wines has been on the rise in recent years, and this trend can be seen at many of the wine bars on our list. Candle 79, for example, offers only organic and biodynamic wines. This focus on sustainability and responsible farming practices reflects a growing concern for the environment and a desire for transparency in the farming and winemaking process.

The History of Wine on the Upper East Side

The Upper East Side has a rich history of wine culture. In the early 20th century, the area was known for its speakeasies and was a hub for the production and distribution of illegal alcohol during Prohibition. Over the years, wine bars have become a staple of the UES dining and nightlife scene, perfect for sipping a glass of wine and taking in the city\’s vibrant culture.

The Benefits of Joining a Wine Club

Many of the wine bars on our list offer wine clubs, which allow members to regularly receive curated selections of wine. These clubs offer a convenient way to try new wines and expand your palate, without the pressure of selecting a bottle on your own. Wine club members also usually receive discounts on bottles and other perks such as exclusive tastings and events.

The Future of Wine Bars on the Upper East Side

The wine bar scene on the Upper East Side shows no signs of slowing down. With a continued focus on sustainability, organic wines, and unique wine experiences, these bars are sure to remain a staple of the UES culture for years to come.