If you've thought about trying a good shiraz, pinot grigio, or sterling this summer, head for the local wine scene at these top hot spots, according to SanDiegoMagazine.com.
MOSAIC: 3422 30th Street, North Park. Offering by-the glass selections in a dark, noisy, and truly urban setting. Bottles are the better value. Add $5 corkage fee when paired with food items, such as flatbread pizza, chicken paninis, and salads dressed in balsamic vinegar.
ENOTECA STYLE: 1445 India Street, Little Italy. A hybrid of cozy and urban, offering specially handpicked wines. Service is informative and friendly. Try the Ash Panini (salami, mortadella, provolone, garlic aoli) and pair with a red-wine flight
WET STONE: 1927 Fourth Avenue, Bankers Hill. Interesting mix of wines and San Francisco coffee house style décor welcomes patrons. Wines from different regions include South America, Spain and Chile – ranging from $7 to $10. A small bites menu offers flatbread pizza, sautéed Mexican shrimp, and cheese & meat plate.
KENSINGTON VINE: 4191 Adams Avenue, Kensington. Friendly atmosphere and good wine selection brings regulars back time after time. Low priced spread ($7 Chards) to bigger wines available. Staff prepared to educate patrons upon request.
SPLASH WINE LOUNGE: 3043 University Avenue, North Park. Seventy-two wines on tap with gas pump-style service. Buy a card, load it up with credit, and select a wine station. Insert card, align glass, push button to receive a 1-ounce splash (card is reduced cost per ounce). Buy a bottle of your favorite during busy times to avoid lines and jams.
WINE STEALS: Hillcrest, Point Loma, and Cardiff. Lively, fun, and easy on the budget. Challenge is getting everything from the bar. Enjoy $4 wines (5 p.m. – 7 p.m.) or $10 tasting of 12 wines every Saturday (4 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.).
