Cavist
Cavist is perhaps the best wine shop in all of Rio; it also has a high-end restaurant attached to it which is very convenient. There are over 1,500 labels from various countries such as New Zealand, South Africa, Italy, Portugal, and Uruguay, and served in an elegant and classy interior. On warm evening, the place to be is the terrace overlooking the square. The head waiter speaks English fluently and offers great advice on which wines to pair with which dishes from the interesting menu. Perfect for a Sunday brunch or dinner.
R. Barão da Torre, 358, Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, +55 21 2123 7900
Symposium
Located in a restored and preserved heritage mansion, Symposium is every wine aficionado’s dream. Owned by Uruguayan José Hodara, who has created a beautiful restaurant with an extensive wine list tending towards South American reds, but there are some pretty good European labels too. You can pick your own wine from the cellar, which is fun and offers you a peek at the whole collection. Live music accompanies the drinking courtesy of the piano and jazz sessions, and there’s a lovely menu to accompany the wine.
R. Ipiranga, 65 Laranjeiras, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, +55 21 2205 3122
L’Orangerie
L’Orangerie is a no-fuss wine store with a restaurant attached. It looks charming from the outside and the decor inside is warm and welcoming. The menu is small but good and goes well with the wine selection. L’Orangerie has over 600 labels from over 14 countries. It’s a great place for one to just sit down and enjoy wine without any distractions or fuss.
R. Gen. Glicério, 364, Laranjeiras, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, +55 21 2245 6240
La Botella
Inspired by traditional European wine houses, La Botella is the perfect stop for wine lovers who may be looking for an expensive bottle or a quick glass before heading back home. The wine bar houses over 600 wines from countries such as Argentina, Chile, France, and Australia, accompanied by a menu of cheese, cold cuts, sandwiches and desserts.
R. Paul Redfern, 72 Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, +55 21 2512 8614
Grand Cru Ipanema
Grand Cru Ipanema is a classy and elegant restaurant, a wine store, and bistro combined. It has a pretty good collection of wines, which one can choose from the impressive wine cellar. They are available by the glass for maximum sampling opportunities, making it easier for patrons to decide which they would like to drink. The staff is courteous and professional, the menu is good with French-style dishes. The ambiance is quiet, it’s an enjoyable place to visit for a nice drink along with some great food.
R. Vinícius de Moraes, 130 Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, +55 21 2247 1089