From Harbor East to Hampden, these are the best wine bars in Baltimore for top-tier pours, small plates, and unforgettable experiences.

BY KAZEEM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND– Baltimore, a city steeped in maritime history and bursting with eclectic charm, has evolved into a vibrant destination for wine lovers. If you are a seasoned sommelier or a curious novice, Baltimore’s wine bar scene offers a refined yet approachable spectrum of wine experiences. From cozy neighborhood gems to sleek modern lounges, the best wine bars in Baltimore promise ambiance, expertly curated wine lists, and exceptional service.

1. The Bygone—Elevated Luxury with a View

Perched atop the Four Seasons Hotel in Harbor East, The Bygone delivers not just a wine bar but a full-scale sensory experience. With sweeping views of the Inner Harbor and a roaring fireplace, this 1920s-inspired rooftop bar offers over 800 wine selections, including rare vintages and iconic labels from Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Napa Valley. Their sommelier team is always available for personalized recommendations and food pairings.

Signature Features:

• Extensive old-world wine collection
• Impressive Champagne and sparkling list
• Elegant ambiance perfect for dates or celebrations

2. 13.5% Wine Bar – Hampden’s Trendy Favorite

Located in the artsy Hampden neighborhood, 13.5% Wine Bar brings a modern flair to Baltimore’s wine culture. With over 40 wines by the glass and rotating seasonal selections, it’s a go-to for those who enjoy exploring varietals without committing to a full bottle. Their happy hour is popular among locals, offering generous pours and thoughtful food pairings like truffle fries and artisanal flatbreads.

Highlights:

• Rotating wine flights
• Cozy industrial-chic decor
• Small plates menu featuring local ingredients

3. Cinghiale—Italian Elegance in Harbor East

Cinghiale, translating to “wild boar” in Italian, is an homage to Italy’s vibrant food and wine traditions. This fine dining wine bar features a cellar with over 700 Italian wines, carefully curated to represent every region from Piedmont to Sicily. With its dual dining experience—Osteria (casual) and Enoteca (fine dining)—you can enjoy a rustic charcuterie board or a full five-course wine dinner.

What Sets It Apart:

• One of the most extensive Italian wine lists in Maryland
• Regular wine dinners and regional spotlights
• Warm, European-inspired interiors

4. Bin 604 Wine Sellers—Retail Meets Tasting Lounge

Nestled within the historic Harbor East Marketplace, Bin 604 Wine Sellers doubles as a boutique wine shop and casual tasting bar. It’s a favorite among locals looking to explore curated wines before taking a bottle home. The shop holds regular wine tasting events, masterclasses, and food pairing sessions, making it an educational and social hub for wine lovers.

Why Visit:

• Expertly curated wine inventory
• Daily wine flights and cheese pairings
• Knowledgeable staff offering guided tastings

5. The Wine Collective—Urban Winemaking in the City

The Wine Collective redefines the wine bar experience by combining a winery, tasting room, and restaurant under one industrial-style roof. Located in Union Collective, this urban winemaking co-op sources grapes from top Mid-Atlantic vineyards and vinifies them on-site. Patrons can taste wines produced in-house, watch the winemaking process, and enjoy a seasonal menu that complements their evolving wine list.

Unique Aspects:

• On-site wine production
• Local and sustainable wine focus
• Art-driven, modern aesthetic

6. La Cuchara—Basque-Inspired Sophistication

Though known for its exquisite Basque cuisine, La Cuchara boasts a well-regarded wine bar that emphasizes Spanish and French varietals. The bar’s wine list showcases over 200 wines, many of which are small-production and organic. Guests can enjoy tapas and pintxos with a bold Rioja or crisp Albariño in a relaxed yet refined setting.

Standouts:

• Wine list focused on Spain, Portugal, and France
• Seasonal tasting menus with expert pairings
• Rustic-chic ambiance with European flair

7. Gnocco—Hidden Gem in Highlandtown

A beloved neighborhood secret in Highlandtown, Gnocco offers a more intimate wine experience. The wine list is compact yet purposeful, focusing on biodynamic and natural wines that reflect terroir and artisan winemaking. The rotating menu changes with the seasons, featuring dishes like house-made gnocchi and lamb ragu, perfectly paired with a glass of Nebbiolo or an Austrian Grüner Veltliner.

Why It’s a Must-Visit:

• Focus on natural, low-intervention wines
• Chef-driven seasonal cuisine
• Quiet, romantic atmosphere

8. Monarque—Decadent Dining Meets Wine Indulgence

For those who enjoy pairing bold reds with steak or duck confit, Monarque in Harbor East is a must-visit. This French brasserie-inspired wine bar offers a curated cellar of over 600 bottles, with a strong emphasis on French appellations. The velvet-draped interiors, candlelit tables, and live entertainment channel the energy of Parisian cabarets.

Notable Features:

• Extensive French wine selection
• Charcuterie and aged cheeses
• Live jazz and burlesque on weekends

9. Wet City – Craft Beer Meets Natural Wine

While known for its craft beer, Wet City in Mount Vernon also curates a surprisingly refined natural wine program. Focused on small-batch producers and quirky labels, it’s a favorite for those looking to explore the funky, the unfiltered, and the unexpected. The menu includes elevated bar food like Korean fried chicken and duck fat fries, perfect for adventurous pairings.

Why Go:

• Funky, unfiltered wine list
• Cool, industrial vibe
• Affordable glass options for experimentation

10. Fadensonnen—Zen-Like Wine Sanctuary

Tucked away in the Old Goucher neighborhood, Fadensonnen offers a serene escape from city bustle. With a focus on organic, natural, and low-intervention wines, the bar also includes sake and mead offerings for a truly unique experience. The minimalist design, Japanese-inspired courtyard, and calm energy make Fadensonnen a meditative space to enjoy obscure varietals and deep conversation.

Why It’s Different:         

• Rare and minimal-intervention wines
• Garden courtyard for outdoor sipping
• Off-the-beaten-path, artsy vibe

Discover the Best Wine Bars in Baltimore 

From the glitz of high-rise rooftops to the warmth of hidden neighborhood haunts, Baltimore’s wine bars offer a diverse and enriching wine journey. Whether you’re craving a rare Burgundy, a funky pét-nat, or a classic Cabernet, the city’s wine destinations cater to every taste, occasion, and curiosity. As the wine culture in Baltimore continues to evolve, these bars reflect global trends and celebrate local talent, craftsmanship, and community.

What do you think about our list of the best wine bars in Baltimore? Share your thoughts. Leave a comment.