Traditional Parisian Bar à Vin

Description:

A traditional French bar à vin, or wine bar, is a cozy and often intimate establishment where patrons can enjoy a wide selection of wines by the glass or bottle. These bars focus on creating a relaxed atmosphere for wine tasting, often accompanied by a menu of small plates or appetizers designed to complement the wine.

Menu:

Wine Selection: The heart of a bar à vin is its wine list, which typically includes a variety of French wines from different regions, such as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Rhône, Loire Valley, and Provence.

Small Plates: The food menu often features a range of small plates (also known as “tapas” or “assiettes”) that pair well with wine. Common items include:

Charcuterie: A selection of cured meats such as saucisson, pâté, jambon (ham), and rillettes.

Fromages: A variety of cheeses, including options like Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, and Comté.

Tartines: Open-faced sandwiches topped with ingredients like cheese, ham, or smoked salmon.

Olives and Nuts: Simple yet flavorful snacks that pair well with wine.

Foie Gras: Rich, buttery foie gras often served with bread or toast.

Escargots: Snails cooked in garlic and herb butter, a classic French delicacy.

Quiche and Tarts: Savory pastries with fillings like cheese, vegetables, or meat.

Wine:

Varieties: Expect a diverse range of wines, including red, white, rosé, and sparkling wines. Many bars à vin focus on showcasing wines from small, independent producers and may also offer natural or organic wines.

By the Glass or Bottle: Wines are typically available by the glass, half bottle, or full bottle, allowing you to sample different types or share with friends.

What to Order and How to Order:

Selecting Wine: If you're unsure what to order, don't hesitate to ask the server or sommelier for recommendations. Use phrases like “Quel vin recommandez-vous?” (What wine do you recommend?) or “Je cherche un vin rouge/blanc léger/corsé” (I'm looking for a light/full-bodied red/white wine).

Pairing Food: For food, consider pairing your wine with a selection of charcuterie and cheeses. For example, you could say “Je voudrais une assiette de charcuterie et de fromages, s'il vous plaît” (I would like a plate of charcuterie and cheeses, please).

Trying New Wines: Take advantage of the opportunity to try new and different wines. Many bars à vin offer tasting flights or sampler sets. Ask, “Avez-vous des dégustations de vin?” (Do you have wine tastings?).

Price Range:

Low:

Wine: 4€ - 8€ per glass

Small Plates: 5€ - 10€ each

Mid:

Wine: 8€ - 15€ per glass, 25€ - 40€ per bottle

Small Plates: 10€ - 15€ each

High:

Wine: 15€ - 25€ per glass, 40€ and above per bottle

Small Plates: 15€ and above each

Atmosphere:

Cozy and Intimate: Traditional bars à vin often have a warm, inviting atmosphere with rustic decor, dim lighting, and comfortable seating.

Friendly Service: Staff are usually knowledgeable and passionate about wine, eager to help you discover new favorites.

Visiting a traditional French bar à vin is a wonderful way to experience the country's rich wine culture. Take your time to savor the wines, enjoy the complementary small plates, and immerse yourself in the convivial ambiance.

Parisian Bar à Vin

Bars à Vin of Exception

dans le 6e arrondissement (Rive Gauche) de Paris

Here are some recommendations for the most popular wine bars in Paris' 6th arrondissement (Rive Gauche) :

La Grande Crèmerie (8 Rue Grégoire de Tours, 75006 Paris) : Located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, La Grande Crèmerie is a contemporary wine bar offering a selection of French and international wines, charcuterie, and cheese. The cozy and intimate atmosphere provides a perfect setting for a relaxed evening with friends or a romantic date.

Other Honorable Mentions

La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels (12, Rue des Saints-Pères, 75006 Paris) : Located behind the Marché Saint-Germain, this wine bar offers small nooks and crannies for quiet conversation between friends.

Oplato (14, Rue des Écoles, 75006 Paris) : This small neighborhood wine bar offers monthly tastings of new wines and mixed platters to share with friends.