Where to Sip Wine in Houston This Summer: 7 Chic Spots to Beat the Heat

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Houston summers are no joke—but nothing beats the heat like a good glass of wine and a chill vibe. Whether you're craving crisp whites, bold reds, or a perfectly chilled glass of rosé, the city is full of wine bars and hidden gems that make summer sipping feel luxurious, fun, and full of flavor. As your go-to wine bestie, I’ve rounded up my favorite spots to wine down in style this season. Let’s sip through H-Town, shall we?

1. Postino Montrose

Where vibes meet value.
Postino is always a win with its chic decor, buzzing patio, and that famous $6 wine ‘til 5pm. Their bruschetta board + a cold glass of Vermentino = summer goals. Perfect for catching up with friends or low-key date nights when you want flavor and ambiance.

Don’t miss: Wine board Wednesdays and Sunday Fundays on the patio.

2. 13 Celsius

The cool kids’ cellar.
This cozy wine bar is housed in a 1920s Mediterranean-style building with indoor-outdoor seating that feels like you're tucked away in a European courtyard. With one of the most impressive wine lists in Houston, it's ideal for sipping something new and unexpected.

Pro tip: Ask the staff for their favorite by-the-glass recommendation—they know their stuff.

3. Roots Wine Bar

Self-serve, but make it classy.
Located in East Downtown (EaDo), Roots offers a wine-on-tap concept where you pour your own from curated dispensers using a smart card. It’s interactive, casual, and perfect for groups with mixed palates. Plus, their bites are just as good as the vino.

Summer fave: A crisp Albariño paired with the shrimp toast.

4. Light Years Natural Wine Shop

For the wild, the funky, and the wine-curious.
Light Years isn’t your typical wine bar—it’s a funky, feel-good natural wine shop in Montrose where the focus is on minimal intervention and maximum personality. You can sip on a glass in-store or grab a bottle to-go. It’s eclectic, educational, and deeply unpretentious.

Why we love it:

  • Natural wines with stories behind the labels.

  • Chill space with vinyl spinning and vibes flowing.

  • Staff picks always slap.

Hot tip: Ask about their rotating wine flights or pop-up tastings—they host collabs with local chefs and artists.

5. Camerata at Paulie’s

For the wine nerds and the wine-curious.
Camerata is all about curation and storytelling. The staff takes their wine seriously but without the snobbery. The bar itself is sleek and intimate, making it perfect for solo sips or deep convos over a bottle of natural wine.

Hot tip: Check out their rotating glass list—it’s full of hidden gems.

6. VinSanto

Wine bar meets neighborhood gem.
Located in the Memorial area, VinSanto is an intimate, modern wine bar with an ever-evolving selection and cozy energy. It’s a perfect spot for relaxed conversations and discovering new small-production wines. The team behind the bar is super knowledgeable and will guide you based on your mood or what’s in your glass that day.

Why we love it:

  • Rotating list with a global focus.

  • Chic, minimalist interior with warm hospitality.

  • Ideal for solo sipping or a lowkey nightcap.

Summer rec: Their orange wine selections are on point—ask for a skin-contact pick with a bit of chill and character.

7. Montrose Cheese & Wine

Small but mighty.
This intimate neighborhood spot serves boutique wines and artisanal cheese pairings that are a match made in wine lover heaven. It’s relaxed, elegant, and perfect for a slow afternoon of sipping and nibbling.

Pairing pick: A chilled Gamay with aged gouda on the side.

Final Sip: Make It Your Summer to Explore

Houston has layers, and so does the wine scene. Whether you’re in the mood for swanky and sleek or chill and community-driven, there’s a wine bar waiting for you. So throw on your favorite sundress or your best linen set, grab your crew (or go solo!), and let your palate lead the way.

Cheers to good wine, hot girl/boy summer nights, and unforgettable sips!
– Monica, The Black Wineo

The Heart & Soul of Paso: 7 Reasons to Vist Paso Robles

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As I continue to press foward immersing myself within the wine industry, I’m grateful for opportunities that align to practice and study my craft. As a Root Fund scholar, myself and four of my cohorts- Nadia Mincey (@nadwines), Natasha Lorick (@cultureandvine), Nikki Handy (@shonise_photographs_and_sips) and Laura Naverette (@laura89n) were recently selected to participate in an enrichment trip to Paso Robles, CA hosted by the Paso Wine Alliance. Paso Robles is home to world-class wineries and humble winemakers who want to share a peace of Paso with all that dare to descend on Napa Valley's charming counterpart. Located at the halfway mark between both Los Angeles and San Francisco, Paso is ideal for a road trip or weekend getaway. Unique to its terrior is the calcareous limestone soil which helps retain water ideal for grape growing. Its comprised of a ridgeline that calms the sun beaming upon the vineyards with a lively breeze.

Photo credit Paso Wine Alliance

Treasured old vines are nurtured and remain to preserve the traditions of the past. The leaders of Paso are the driving force behind the sustainability movement in SLO CAL (San Luis Obispo County). While many wine regions across the U.S. are slow to implement responsibility practices, wineries like Tablas Creek have become the benchmark for ROC (Regenerative Organic Certification) and Biodynamic certification. With over 200 wineries and tasting rooms, winemakers continue to shape the future of the region by championing diversity and through a sense of community, sustainability practices and award-winning wines. Here are seven reasons to make Paso Robles your next wine tourism destination.

Booker Vineyards- provides a luxurious ambiance for those looking for a Napaesque experience. Booker's design elements are sophisticated and plush, with each room intentionally decorated to highlight the elegance that's found within their portfolio. You can expect five-star customer service and unique amenities that are far from ordinary and leave a lasting impression.

CASS Winery- Cass brings the wine and the fun with the addition of Camp Cass. Cass invites guests to unleash their inner child with thoughtfully curated experiences that aim to be theraputic, adventurous and educational. From sunset horseback rides, archery to photography workshops, cooking classes and demos, and custom wine-blending sessions. The activities are endless. Warning, you just may never want to leave. (The Geneseo Inn- the cutest tiny homes onsite are available for guests looking for accomodations.)

Tooth & Nail Wine Company- Is a castlelike venue where all the cool kids dwell. Tooth & Nail is known for hip and funky blends of true Rhone reds to suit your palate. Tooth & Nail masterfully blends the art of food & wine with simple yet elevated culinary fare that complements each of their distinctive varietals. Dine in during a tasting, stop in for Sunday brunch or one of their member only events for the carnitas tacos, brussel sprouts and artichoke dip. This winery is perfect for large groups and special occasions.

Downtown Paso- A charming centerpiece that is the hub for many tasting rooms, restaurants and quaint shops unique to Paso. Visit the tasting rooms of Copia Vineyards, LXV Wines or the Black-owned winery in Indigene Cellars. Plant yourself under the trees that line the park to learn more about Paso's history or to enjoy a picnic in the park. Consider stopping by the newly opened Libretto Jazz Club which features an array of Classical and Jazz musicians in rotation.

Turley Vineyards- Head down to Turley to truly see just how special the landscape of Paso is. The winemakers at Turley believe in preserving the land and old vines which are organically farmed and some as old as 100 years. Turley produces over 47 wines, so there's something for everyone especially those who lover and old vine Zinfadels.

Turley Vineyards Tasting Room Manager, Malani Anderson and the Rooted in Paso scholars.

Justin Vineyards-Reigning as one of Paso's most notable brands Justin Vineyard's estate offers stunning views of the vineyards, a full restaurant, and the JUST Inn, a 3-suite hotel cozy enough for an overnight stay. Known for bold and rich reds the Isosceles Cabernet Sauvignon is mouthwatering and one od the stars of their portfolio. Combining Old World methodology with new world technology, Justin continues to attract enthusiasts who fancy quality wines and exclusive experiences.

DAOU Vineyards- Cherish the views and ocean breeze courtesy of the Templeton Gap at one of the highest points in Paso. DAOU prides itself on positive experiences rooted in kindness and hospitality. Executive Chef, Elaine prepares some of the tastiest Lebanese inspired cuisine to pair with each of DAOU’s wines. It's also the winery for those seeking a brush with fame as there is always an occasional celebrity sighting. Even the Director of Hospitality, Marino Monferrato is infamous for his role as the current Maître d'hôtel of the popular show Hell’s Kitchen.