Whether the grocery store wine selection overwhelms or bores you, Birmingham has the answer — a lineup of local wine shops that specialize in sourcing, educating, and, most importantly, helping you find the perfect wine for every occasion. Check out these seven spots around town to help you find your next favorite bottle!
Aviné
Neighborhood: Downtown
More info: avinebham.com
If you’re meeting a friend for a glass (or two) and a charcuterie board, or even if you just need to pop in for a specialty bottle, you can do it all at Aviné. Located in the heart of downtown, Aviné offers an intimate and welcoming environment to enjoy their elegant eats with a suggested wine pairing or classic cocktail. They’re open Wednesday through Sunday from 4 p.m. to midnight and offer online ordering and curbside pickup.
Buka
Neighborhood: Homewood
More info: bukabhm.com
Natural wines take center stage at Buka, a wine shop and bar in West Homewood. “Natural wines tell stories about the places they come from and the growers and winemakers who create them,” says Jeremy Moore, Birmingham native and manager at Buka. “We want to connect people to what they experience in their glass and the efforts by so many people to get it there.” They proudly partner with local businesses across Birmingham to showcase their wines. Stop into Buka for their highly curated wine selection and enjoy an expertly paired glass with one of their small plates.
The Vintage Wine Shoppe
Neighborhood: Inverness
More info: vintagewineshoppe.net
For over 25 years, The Vintage Wine Shoppe has been helping Birmingham wine enthusiasts access any wine they seek. Stop by to enjoy their Saturday Sips, where you can sample select wines while you shop. If you want to expand your palate, sign up for the next Vino Camp, a wine-tasting event featuring over 200 fine wines. They offer online ordering and encourage customers to contact them if they are searching for a particular bottle.
Plenty of Vino
Neighborhood: Hoover
More info: plentyofvino.com
At Plenty of Vino, Sandra Plenty brings together her three loves: wine, house plants, and vintage gifts. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur with a green thumb or a novice in both arenas, Plenty of Vino can help you find a bottle and plant to brighten your day. Plenty of Vino also specializes in custom gift baskets, offering a unique combination of wine and floral arrangements to suit any recipient. With a self-proclaimed “non-stuffy” environment, you can get the help you need and find just the gift you want.
Classic Wine Company
Neighborhood: Homewood
More info: classicwineco.com
The Classic Wine Company opened in 1988, looking to bring “big city” specialty wine shop stylings to Birmingham. Today, the shop and bar in Homewood offers a wide variety of wines at every price point. And every bottle is personally recommended. Swing by on Fridays for a free tasting event starting at 5:30 p.m., or pop into the bar Monday through Saturday for a glass from their hand-picked favorites. You can also order online for a quick pickup.
Golden Age Wine
Neighborhood: Mountain Brook
More info: goldenagewine.com + Instagram
Golden Age Wine has received national acclaim thanks to its passion for honoring the sustainable farming practices and local traditions of natural wines. A James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Wine Programs in 2022, Golden Age Wine has also been named one of the top 20 wine bars in the country by Tasting Table and one of America’s best specialty wine shops by Punch. In addition, they offer online shopping and delivery through Shipt.
Pleasure is All Wine
Neighborhood: Hoover
More info: pleasureisallwine.com
At Pleasure is All Wine, be prepared to check any pretentiousness at the door. However, that isn’t to say they don’t know their wines. Owner and Certified Sommelier Carlos Cisneros brings his extensive experience in the restaurant industry and his passion for wine to help every customer find their next favorite bottle. They proudly tout the motto, “Removing snobbery from wine one cork at a time.” Pleasure is All Wine also carries an extensive collection of craft beers and is open Monday through Saturday.
Whether you’re searching for a rare Bordeaux, looking for your next wine obsession, or need guidance on the perfect gift, these local wine shops are here to help. Cheers, Birmingham!
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