Wine probably isn’t the first thing that comes across your mind when someone mentions Texas. But the wine scene in Houston is trying to change that.
We’ve taken the time to compile some of the best places to taste and buy wine that will make you reconsider how you think about Texas.
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The Best Wine Bars in Houston
Decant Urban Winery
Imagine ordering a glass of wine, only to find out the person who served it is also the vinter responsible for creating it.
That’s exactly what you’ll find at this women-owned family winery. They focus on using old-world techniques to craft small-batch wine.
Offering flights, bottles, or pours by the glass. You can learn about the inspiration and process while sipping the final creation.
- Location: 7951 Katy FWY, STE B, Houston, TX 77024
Eads Family Vineyard
While a reservation may be required, it will be worth it.
This tasting experience will teleport you to France with their exquisite collection that stems from an owner’s connection to wine importing back in the 70s.
They also offer unique services like cellar building. A sommelier leads the 90-minute tasting at Eads, and small bites like caviar and charcuterie are offered to complement the wines.
- Location: 7800 Washington Avenue, STE 650, Houston, TX 77007
How To Survive on Land and Sea
You’ll find this unique wine bar on Houston’s East End in historic Second Ward.
They focus on natural wines and have a large selection of styles for you to taste and enjoy.
It makes a fun location to grab a drink with friends, and they have a menu full of small bites, so you can stay for a while.
- Location: 3401 Harrisburg Blvd, Houston, TX 77003
Light Years
Specializing in natural wines, this is a great place to visit, no matter your wine-drinking level.
The owner is often on-site, offering tastings before purchase along with great recommendations.
Its cozy atmosphere makes you feel right at home and will keep you coming back.
Weekends are a bit more upbeat, and they also offer weekly tastings to help you expand your palate.
- Location: 1304 West Alabama St, Houston, TX 77006
Memorial Wine Cellar
This family-owned wine bar also includes a bottle shop and event venue. It’s a fun place for just hanging out and sipping a glass of wine.
They offer wine flights which include three 2oz pours. Happy hour is Mon-Fri from 4-7, and there are always weekly specials. The owners wanted a place for people who enjoy wine, so we know you will.
- Location: 7951 Katy FWY Suite B, Houston, TX 77024
Montrose Cheese and Wine
No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll probably find it at Montrose.
They offer a full bottle shop, pastries, and coffee in the mornings, plus gifts and home goods to top it off. But the real show stopper is in their name.
A rotating cheese selection includes 12-15 options, along with 125 wines to pick from.
You can order a flight or join the exclusive monthly wine and cheese tasting. Either way, your first trip to Montrose won’t be your last.
- Location: 1618 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006
Mutiny Wine Room
Offering the most exclusive bottles in Houston, you’ll think you’ve been transported to Napa Valley.
Under the same roof, you’ll find Farmhouse, which offers extremely well-crafted food pairings to go alongside the limited-production wines.
You’ll want to be sure to check out the Corvain-Preservation wine list, which holds an exclusive list of wines sold by the glass.
The kicker is they’re poured without removing the cork. With its high-profile selection, you’ll definitely want to reserve a spot before stopping by.
- Location: 1125 West Usener St, Houston, TX 77009
Roots Wine Bar
Roots offer a very unique and can’t miss experience. Their selections include lesser-known wine from female vintners, sustainable vineyards, and those that give back to charity.
It’s a bottle shop with a twist. Over 56 wines are available to try in 1, 3, or 5oz pours that come from an automated dispenser.
Once you find the perfect wine, the staff can grab you a full bottle to take home for your next dinner or party.
They also offer a rotating and seasonal menu that pairs well with the wine selections. You won’t regret stopping at Roots.
- Location: 3107 Leeland St, Houston, TX 77003
Vinology
If you’re looking for a comfortable place to learn more about wine, look no further than Vinology.
A perfect mix of tasting and education, you can taste and learn about a certain wine before taking a bottle home from their shop.
They may favor smaller-production wineries, but their menu is anything but small. There are over 300 wines from all around the world to choose from.
Winemakers and industry professionals guide tours, tastings, even consultations, and private events. It’s the perfect way to take your wine-tasting experience to the next level.
- Location: 2314 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005
13 Celsius
Whether it’s date night or a casual afternoon, 13 Celsius is the place to be. They have a large selection of wine focused on mainly selections from Italy.
The Mediterranean feel is continued in the architecture of the 1920’s building they’re located in. To pair with a wine flight are carefully crafted charcuterie boards or small plates.
And if you’re looking for a more specific experience, they work with exceptional local chefs to provide outstanding wine-paired dinners.
Also boasting a selection of 30 bottled beers, there’s something for everyone.
- Location: 3000 Caroline, Houston, TX 77004
Final Thoughts
The locations we’ve listed will definitely change your mind about the wine scene in Texas.
The mix of great wine selections and southern hospitality can’t be beaten. After a few glasses (or a bottle), you’ll be convinced that Houston may just be one of the best places to enjoy great wine and company.