Bottled Joy: 6 Great Wine Bars to Visit

BY HANA-LEE SEDGWICK

The global wine scene offers an abundance of bottled treasures ready to be discovered. Luckily, a world of wine awaits just around the corner. If you’re in the mood for a crisp Sancerre from France, a nuanced pinot noir from the Sonoma Coast or a complex grenache from the Columbia Valley, Spokane and Coeur d’Alene offer a selection of wine bars serving an array of international and regional gems. 

So, whether you're a budding enthusiast or a seasoned oenophile, here’s where to head when you’re ready to sip and swirl to your heart’s content.

Stylus Wine & Vinyl Bar

After setting out to blend their passions for wine and music, husband-and-wife-duo Robby and Krista French opened Stylus Wine & Vinyl in 2022, showcasing his love for vinyl records and her sommelier expertise. 

“We envisioned Stylus as a welcoming spot to enjoy fine wine, vinyl tunes, live music and simple, yet delicious cuisine alongside great hospitality,” Krista says. 

Here, guests can savor wines from across the Pacific Northwest and Europe while listening to vinyl from the 3,500-record collection. Adding to the appeal of this vibrant local hub is the regular lineup of wine tastings, guest DJs and themed brunches.

“We aim for Stylus to be more than a wine bar or music venue,” Robby shares. “We want each visit to immerse guests in a true sensory experience one might not expect to find in a small town.” 

2605 N. Fourth St., Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
styluswineandvinylbar.com

Courtesy of Teuvo Orjala of Fixed Focus Media

Lola Wine Lounge

After years of planning, wine industry veteran Sam Lange and entrepreneur Anna Lombard brought their wine bar visions to life with the opening of Lola Wine Lounge in 2023. 

“We wanted to create an experience of sophistication blended with the warmth of home, where every detail — from the music and small bites to the meticulously crafted wine list — transports you,” Lombard explains.

Indeed, the lounge is refined yet inviting, showcasing a moody color palette and elegant décor throughout. Complementing the setting is a select menu of dips and charcuterie, along with an ever-evolving wine list highlighting West Coast wines, European imports and South American gems.

“While we offer wines from a number of regions across the globe, more important to us than origin is selecting wines that we personally enjoy and stand behind,” Lange says.

722 E. Lakeside Ave., Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Vine & Olive

Since Naomi Boutz opened Vine & Olive in 2017, the Coeur d’Alene wine bar and eatery has become a popular destination in the Riverstone area, offering seasonally-inspired shared plates, local beers on tap and a rotating selection of wines from throughout the Northwest region and Europe. 

"I like to keep things fresh and exciting, but since I believe wine and food should complement each other, I’m thoughtful to choose wines that pair well with our cuisine, which is European-inspired with Northwest flair," Boutz says, who adds that it’s been “a privilege to contribute to the local wine and food scene for the past seven years, offering people a place to come grab a great glass and meal, and maybe discover a new favorite wine made locally or from a region they’ve never heard of.” 

2037 N. Main St., Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
www.vineandolivecda.com

The Wine House

For the past four years, The Wine House has served as a laid-back place for grabbing a glass of wine in Coeur d’Alene. 

“We saw a need for an approachable place to gather for wine,” says owner Nicole Hammons. “Our intention has always been to be a spot where anyone can come — with a group of friends or straight from the boat in flip flops — to enjoy affordable wines in a casual atmosphere. Bonus if they discover a new favorite pour.” 

This informal vibe is reflected in everything from the relaxed setting to convivial events like karaoke nights to the light-hearted menu that includes wine, beer, light bites … or even a bucket of shots. 

“More than anything, we want people to have fun and not be intimidated by wine,” Hammons adds. 

1621 Sherman Ave., Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
www.winehousecda.com/menu

Nectar Wine and Beer

Since opening in 2015, Nectar Wine and Beer has been a beloved fixture in Spokane’s Kendall Yards neighborhood, drawing customers for its impressive selection of 40 wines by the glass, craft beer on tap and over 400 retail bottles. Add in stunning views of the Spokane River and cityscape, a regular lineup of events and a wine and beer club and it’s no wonder Nectar has become a go-to destination for locals. 

"We’re always looking to enhance our guests' understanding of wine and beer, through winemaker tastings and other educational events, but we’re also about creating space to relax and have fun,” says owner Josh Wade. “We want people to feel welcome anytime, whether grabbing a pint with friends or just picking up wine for a dinner party.” 

1331 W. Summit Parkway, Spokane
nectarwineandbeer.com

Courtesy of Nectar Wine and Beer