The Best Wine Bars In London 2019
6 can't-miss places to try on your next trip to England's bustling capital city
It would take a lifetime to conquer all that London has to offer, especially where drinks and dining are concerned. The key to tackling London's food and wine scene is to simply crawl your way through it. Thanks to London's efficient transportation system—and, let's face it, ride-sharing apps—it's easy to drink your way through the city's best wine bars.
Some deem Terroirs, a London staple, as the city's first natural wine bar. Low-intervention wines from off-the-beaten-path regions are served with simple bistro fare (cheese, charcuterie boards, etc.). Plenty of older vintage wine options are available at a decent price.
Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels
After Terroirs, veer slightly North to Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels for a dose of chic ambiance. It falls under the Experimental Cocktail Club's oversight, which has additional locations in Paris and New York. For sofas, Champagne and all things French fare, this dimly lit wine bar has you covered.
Noble Rot Wine Bar & Restaurant
For wine lovers of all ages, knowledge levels and palate preferences, a trip to Noble Rot is a must. This Parisian-style wine bar is a London institution in the city's beverage scene, offering an extensive list of wines served alongside seasonal British fare. Markups are low, selection is broad and the atmosphere is peerless. Make sure to grab a copy of the bar's in-house magazine on your way out.
You'd be hard-pressed to find a more passionate and enthusiastic wine bar owner than Michael Sager. Located in East London, this intimate wine bar's global selection is constantly changing, bringing diversity and excitement to the reasonably priced list. The staff is equal parts enthusiastic and helpful, eager to make suggestions. Don't miss the spring onion cheese toast and olive tapenade,
Head just a few streets over to The Laughing Heart for a great selection of organic, minimal-intervention bottles sourced from small producers and lesser-known vineyards. The bar is open until 2 a.m., making it a favorite of London's food and wine professionals. Don't be surprised when you find local chefs and bartenders taking part in some late-night sips and snacks.
End the night with a refreshing walk across the River Thames and finish at 40 Maltby, another industry hangout. The bar is located in the headquarters of Gergovie Wines, a local natural wine importer that focuses on small, natural producers. Be sure to sample one of the artisanal baked goods—the perfect way to end any bar crawl.