UNCORK A GREAT EVENING
Sip on some toast-worthy wines.
You probably don't think of Chicago as part of "wine country." But you will.
Chicago may not have rolling hills lined with row after row of grape vines. But that won't prevent you from sampling some of the finest vintages from the best labels in the world at one of Chicago's many wine bars.
Now that's worth a toast!
After a nice stroll up Michigan Avenue, take a break for some gourmet cheese, chocolate and wine at ENO located in the InterContinental Chicago. You can relax while watching the lights and action on the Magnificent Mile.
Across the street, and tucked a few quiet feet off the Avenue, is The Purple Pig that attracts a hungry crowd for small plates and wines by the glass, bottle or quartino. Admire the huge wine barrels hanging on the wall and sample your way through the menu.
For an education along with every glass, try Bin 36, attached to the Hotel Sax along the river. It is part restaurant and small retail outlet, so you can enjoy a full wine-tasting experience and bring it home. You can even build your own "flight" of flavors to sample different wines from regions around the globe. France, Germany and Argentina have never felt closer.
Take refuge after a day of shopping on the Mag Mile at DiSotto Enoteca, an Italian wine cellar in the basement of Francesca's restaurant. There are more than 130 bottles of wine to choose from and a selection of charcuterie, cheeses and bruschetta that will have you salivating. And it's never too late for eggs. Try the Truffle Egg Toast, and you'll see why it's all the rage.
Chicago's oldest and finest wine bar is Webster's, located on no other than Webster Avenue in the west end of Lincoln Park. Here you'll find more than 40 by-the-glass options and over 500 reserve bottles. Webster's features artisanal and family-owned labels so the staff is well-traveled and well-versed.
And for a totally unique wine-tasting experience, try the 3rd Coast Café & Wine Bar. This cozy eatery serves breakfast all day long. Who says you can't enjoy wine with your omelet?
Another crowd-pleaser is Avec, with its long bar and communal tables, and even longer wine list. Many come for the renowned cuisine, but don't leave without exploring the glorious grapes on the menu.
Napa, Sonoma and Burgundy, France: Meet Chicago.
