Discover Lake Charles' Best Wines: A Guided Tour of Top Local Spots
Indulge in Lake Charles' Exceptional Wines
Experience winederlust – that irresistible craving for world-class wines, right here in Lake Charles. Based on firsthand visits, we've curated the top destinations offering extensive selections, expert pairings, and unforgettable flavors.
Bodega Wine Dive
3505 Country Club Road
Nestled on the south side of Lake Charles, Bodega Wine Dive stands out for its elegant dining and vast wine list. Known for artisanal pizzas, gourmet cheese boards, and a dynamic selection, it's a favorite among locals south of town. Note the short drive, but the rewards are worth it.
Recommended Orders:
Red: Peirano Six Clones, a full-bodied Merlot from Lodi, California, featuring raspberry, black cherry, chocolate, and cedar notes. Pair with the Prime Time pizza for a smoky, cheesy harmony.
White: Revolution Wine Torrontés from Argentina, with floral aromas, Meyer lemon, lemon peel, and peach. Complements the Bacon Lover Grilled Cheese, enhancing its bacon jam and smoked cheddar depth.
Rosé/Bubbly: Gérard Bertrand Sparkling Rosé, fruity and medium-bodied with honeydew, white cherry, almond, and toasted notes. Balances perfectly with the Goat Cheese Grilled Cheese and spicy pepper jelly.
Tried and True: If You See Kay red blend from Paso Robles, California – a smooth, Cabernet-based option ideal for newcomers.
Staff’s Choice: Server Miranda recommends the Alpha Box & Dice Tarot 2018 Grenache: rich, full-bodied with white pepper, cherry, mulberry, and Black Forest cake hints.
The Unexpected: Ensédune Marselan, a Grenache-Cabernet Sauvignon cross delivering concentrated dark fruit and pepper flavors.
Visit www.bodegawinedive.com for more details.
1910 Restaurant and Bar
949 Ryan Street
In downtown Lake Charles, 1910 Restaurant and Bar offers half-off wine bottles on Wednesdays. This welcoming hotspot blends exclusivity with warmth, featuring personalized service, complex cuisine, and bold wines alongside impressive cocktails.
Recommended Orders:
Red: Famille Perrin Côtes du Rhône Villages Rouge, full-bodied with cherry, licorice, thyme, and rosemary. Pairs with quail bombs and bacon-crusted filet.
White: Saint Cosme Little James Basket Press Blanc, a Sauvignon Blanc-Viognier blend with peach blossom, fennel, apricot, grapefruit, and mango notes. Elevates the fried green tomatoes and shrimp appetizer.
Rosé/Bubbly: Hogwash Rosé, vibrant and medium-bodied with watermelon, cherry, and rose water aromas. Ideal with the fried goat cheese salad featuring almonds and blackberries.
Tried and True: Sexual Chocolate Syrah-Zinfandel blend: deep, fruity with subtle chocolate.
Staff Pick: Waitstaff Mary and Tyler suggest Austin Hope Cabernet Sauvignon, rich with coffee, cocoa, dried spices, and dark fruit.
The Unexpected: Owner Andrew Green recommends Alto Moncayo Garnacha from 30-50-year-old Spanish vines: balsamic, chocolate, and black fruit notes in a warm red.
Visit www.1910restaurant.com for more information.
The Wine Store
4402 Nelson Road, Building 2
Tucked away on Nelson Road, The Wine Store is a hidden gem celebrating wine with tastings, full glasses, and house-made pairings. Sommelier David Foley crafts an inviting experience with passion and handmade jellies, jams, and spreads.
Recommended Orders:
Red: Justin Cabernet Sauvignon: aromatic with black cherries, blackcurrant, baking spice, and tobacco. Full-bodied with a long finish; pair with David's cheeseboard and bacon jam.
White: Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc + Viognier: jasmine, honeyed pear, chai spice, guava, kiwi, and papaya. Crisp and summery; try with pineapple jam and cheese.
Rosé/Bubbly: Viva La Vida Rosé Cava: fruit-forward sparkling with strawberry crème and wildflowers. Matches blackberry honey and cheese.
Tried and True: Olema Pinot Noir: smooth with cherry, raspberry, rose petals, vanilla, and earth notes.
Staff Pick: David's favorite, Domaine du Vieux Lazaret Châteauneuf-du-Pape: complex 13-grape blend with red fruits, spice, and velvety finish.
Visit www.thewinestorelc.com for more information.
All recommended wines are affordable, with many available by the glass. Explore Lake Charles' vibrant wine scene today.
