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Cape Town, South Africa

Sip in style: Cape Town’s 5 best wine bars

Southern Africa • Eat & drink • Sip in style: Cape Town’s 5 best wine bars

The best wine bars in Cape Town

Cape Town, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural scene, is also home to a thriving wine culture that rivals some of the world’s best. While the city’s nearby vineyards in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek often steal the spotlight, Cape Town’s wine bars have quietly become destinations in their own right. These intimate, sophisticated venues offer locals and travelers alike a taste of South Africa’s finest wines without the need for a road trip. In this article, we’ll explore Cape Town’s best wine bars, each with their distinct charm and character, and a selection of wines that reflect the richness of the region’s viticulture.

Culture Wine Bar

Culture Wine Bar is a chic establishment, adjacent to the renowned Grub & Vine bistro, that offers a curated selection of South Africa’s finest wines, including rare gems and cult classics. The bar’s ambience is sophisticated yet cosy, with leather booths and exposed brickwork creating a perfect setting for unwinding. Their weekly events, like Vine Night and Culture Club, provide opportunities to learn about wine in a fun, engaging way. The bar also offers a small but innovative menu featuring gourmet bites like charcuterie and cheese platters, perfect for pairing with your wine.

Culture Wine Bar
103 Bree St
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Culture Wine Bar

Cooper Wine Bar

Cooper Wine Bar is the perfect spot for those who appreciate the finer details in a glass of wine. This intimate bar, an extension of Johannesburg’s Mr. Pants, offers an exclusive selection of both international and local wines. Curated by Shayne Holt, one of South Africa’s premier wine tasters, each visit to Cooper Wine Bar is a journey through exquisite tastes and fine vintages. The bar’s cosy atmosphere, complemented by light snacks, makes it a perfect spot for a relaxed evening of wine exploration.

Cooper Wine Bar
315 Main Rd
Sea Point
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Cooper Wine Bar

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Intravinous Wine Lounge & Bar

Intravinous Wine Lounge & Bar is housed in a beautifully revamped heritage building, which still retains much of its old-world charm with exposed brick walls and a warm, inviting ambience. The bar’s aesthetic, characterised by bold red and green accents, exudes a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe. This lounge-style bar offers a wide variety of South African wines, curated by Dave Burton. The bar’s tasting series highlights exquisite wines from both recognized and budding winemakers, making it an excellent choice for wine enthusiasts looking to discover new favourites.

Intravinous Wine Lounge & Bar
110 Loop St
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Intravinous Wine Lounge & Bar

Judd’s Local Wine Bar and Eatery

Judd’s Local Wine Bar and Eatery is a stand-out spot located on Cape Town’s Kloof Street. The atmosphere at Judd’s Local Wine Bar and Eatery is refreshingly unpretentious, offering a welcoming space where the emphasis is on comfort, community and quality. The wine list here is a celebration of South African viticulture, featuring a well-curated range of wines from local producers. Whether you prefer a robust red from Stellenbosch or a crisp white from the Western Cape, there’s something to suit every palate. While sipping on your glass of vino, snack on their corn flake coated mushrooms – delicious!

Judd’s Local Wine Bar and Eatery
141 Kloof St
Gardens
Cape Town
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Judd’s Local Wine Bar and Eatery

Publik Wine Bar

Publik Wine Bar, located on Kloof Nek Road, is a neighbourhood favourite known for its focus on unusual and interesting wines made by independent winemakers. The bar’s selection includes wines from sustainably farmed vineyards and those made with minimal intervention in the cellar. Publik’s unpretentious environment and knowledgeable staff make it a great place to discover new wines. The bar’s list changes regularly, ensuring there’s always something new to try. Publik also offers a variety of small plates, including cured meats and cheeses, to complement your wine.