Top Wine Programs in New Orleans: A Curated Guide

It’s no secret that New Orleans loves spirits, but we also appreciate what grows on the vine. With numerous Wine Spectator awards, secret wine rooms, and lengthy wine lists, several establishments offer strong wine programs. Enjoy thoughtful tastes from around the world at many beloved restaurants across the city. Here is our list of the top places for fine wine in New Orleans. 

1

With over 2,500 bottles of wine on their menu, the Commander’s sommelier takes their job very seriously. Although many call it the most famous restaurant in New Orleans, many don’t know about their wine room. Reserve it for a private dinner for the ultimate wine and dine experience.  

2

New selections are added to their wine list regularly, but they already offer a stellar selection. Ranging from $45 to upwards of $1000, choose between famous old world and new world wines. Donald Link’s award-winning food pairs wonderfully as well. Nearby, his Italian restaurant Gianna has wines worth checking out as well. 

3

One of the newer restaurants on the block, Saint-Germain offers a fresh approach to dining in New Orleans. Part French wine-bar, part restaurant, the casual yet sophisticated establishment keeps things interesting. The bar showcases natural wines both by the glass and by the bottle. The 16-seat dining room requires reservations and is only available for bookings on select nights, ensuring freshness and innovation. 

4

The private cellar at Chef Emeril Lagasse’s flagship restaurant is an ode to their spectacular wine program, holding 10,000 bottles. Winning Wine Spectator’s Grand Award for 14 consecutive years demonstrates their sommelier’s knowledge and experience. 

5

Another impressive wine cellar in the city is at Brennan’s. They offer a range of prices among their 14,125 bottles. Many of the wines are from France. Their champagne happy hour features discounted bubbles and champagne sabering in the courtyard. This beautifully restored restaurant is the perfect setting to enjoy a nice glass of wine in the French Quarter. Brennan’s was the recipient of the 2021 Wine Spectator Grand Award, the highest honor given to restaurants by the magazine.

6

Named as a finalist for the 2019 James Beard Award for Outstanding Wine Program, this wine store turned bar is a unique and beloved establishment in New Orleans. Located in the Bywater, enter through the wine shop and choose your favorite selection from regions all over the world. Check out, grab a glass, and head to their large courtyard for live music and food selections. Wine buckets will keep your drink cold while you enjoy the outdoor weather. 

7

This Uptown Creole dining establishment is a favorite among locals. The thoughtful wine list was chosen to match the flavors of the menu. Many fine bottles are available that won’t break the bank, so sit back and enjoy this authentic New Orleans restaurant. 

8

If you’ve dined at Galatoire's before, you know it is a place of celebration and laughs. Wine is constantly flowing as delectable food is passed. The 82-page wine list includes selections from all over the world, with many from the Champagne and Bordeaux regions of France. 

9

Nestled in the Uptown residential neighborhood, Gautreau’s is a hidden gem with many accolades. The wine list is selective and represents many smaller wineries, frequently changing. The selections are chosen to pair with the French cuisine, with many options available by the glass.  

10

Located in the prestigious Windsor Court Hotel, the Grill Room has an excellent selection of wines that you can order by the glass. They use the Coravin wine preservation system to allow diners to sip on an expensive bottle without having to actually open the bottle. The restaurant received a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2018. 

11

This French bistro on Magazine Street offers old world small estate wines available at a variety of prices both by the glass and bottle. Find eminent selections that won’t break the bank. The intimate eatery mirrors what you may find in France.

12

Since 1920, Broussard’s has been serving Creole and French dishes in the French Quarter. Their wine list pairs well with their dishes, making it a destination for New Orleans Wine and Food Experience (NOWFE) attendees. They received NOWFE's Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence from 2014-2017. 

13

Copper Vine is a wine lover’s dream. With wine on tap, there are dozens of different options to choose from. Their impressive cellar list includes whites, reds, and sparkling wines that you can sample by the glass, bottle, or via wine flight. Paired with a delicious menu boasting New American cuisine, you’re bound to be delighted at this restaurant.

14

There’s something for everyone at Claret: craft cocktails, wine, domestic and imported beers, an extensive charcuterie program, and delicious small plates. Choose from dozens of wines by the glass and bottle at this wine bar. Guests can enjoy an intimately designed interior space or a lovely outdoor patio oasis.

15

New to the Warehouse District, Pluck Wine Bar and Restaurant proves that there's no wrong way to drink wine, except in bad company. Snack on olives and charcuterie while tasting your way through wines from the US, Italy, Spain, and France.

16

Located in a Garden District building built in the 1880s, Coquette offers dining rooms on two floors, a 14-seat bar, and classic New Orleans dishes with a focus on local ingredients. Their extensive wine list features American, Italian, French, German, and Spanish reds and whites, as well as sommelier picks.

For more options, check out our splurge-worthy restaurants here, as most have strong wine selections as well. For a list of wine bars, see here.