Contrary to popular belief, not all Parisian pours need be natural. Despite the rise in glou-glou wine bars and natural-heavy selections, a plethora of classically-styled wine lists still dominate a good number of Parisian establishments.
From prestigious growths to Médoc-based Cru Bourgeois to the great Cru Classés of Saint-Emilion, an endless amount of current release and back-vintage Bordeaux is just waiting to be discovered in Parisian cellars everywhere.
Not sure where to look? Check out the Bordeaux-heavy lists at these classic City of Light institutions, here.
Le Clarence
31 Av. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, 75008
In the realm of Paris-based Bordeaux offerings, Le Clarence undeniably holds one of the best selections. Located on the prestigious Avenue Franklin D. Roosevelt in Paris’ 8th arrondissement, the impressive 1,400 references are exclusively French. Strong holdings come from Burgundy, the Rhône, and of course, Bordeaux. The restaurant itself falls under family-owned Domaine Clarence Dillon, the famed family behind Château Haut-Brion, La Mission Haut-Brion and Château Quintus. While the restaurant’s set menus will cost you a pretty penny – think €180 for three courses, €250 for five courses, and €350 for seven courses, its back-vintage verticals from some of Bordeaux’s top estates make it entirely worth it.
La Tour d’Argent
19 Quai de la Tournelle, 75005
Credit: HJBC / Alamy Stock Photo
After more than a year of having its doors shuttered, La Tour d’Argent reopened this summer. Located in Paris’ 5th arrondissement, La Tour d’Argent’s roots date back to 1582, though the establishment of the restaurant took place about 300 years later. Today, this breathtaking Michelin-star restaurant is beloved for its panoramic views, as well as its Bible-like wine list, which promises something for every curious Bordeaux drinker out there. While the meal itself isn’t necessarily cheap, heading to La Tour for lunch offers a more budget-friendly option.
Garance
34 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007
Located just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Les Invalides, Garance offers a flavour-packed reprieve from the neighbourhood’s large number of tourist-focused destinations. Established under the oversight of Guillaume Muller, this quality-focused restaurant highlights seasonal ingredients and meticulous attention to detail; even the restaurant’s beef comes from the family farm located in nearby Limousin. With regards to the wine cellar, the impressive list boasts over 8,000 bottles – and of the 21-page wine list, two full pages are dedicated to red wines from Bordeaux. Responsibly-sourced meat and a bottle of claret? Sign us up.
Le Taillevent
15 Rue Lamennais, 75008
Credit: Glenn Harper / Alamy Stock Photo
For fine wine and impeccable plates served in a classically elegant ambiance, head to Le Taillevent. Located in the city’s 8th arrondissement, this iconic Parisian staple first opened its doors back in 1946 and has remained an institution ever since. The restaurant’s wine game has only gotten better over time and its list is now spearheaded by Antoine Pétrus, whose focus remains on great wines from Burgundy and Bordeaux. The cellar’s offerings include an impressive vertical from Château Latour, as well as a number of top Left and Right Bank selections. Note: The restaurant is closed on weekends but offers dinner Monday to Friday with a lunch service Tuesday to Friday.
Frenchie Bar à Vins
6 Rue du Nil, 75002
For those looking to enjoy Bordeaux wines in a more laid-back environment, look no further than Frenchie Bar à Vins. Located on the quiet Rue du Nil in Paris’ 2nd arrondissement, this small-yet-fierce wine bar offers something for every Bordeaux budget and palate preference. A number of bottles under the €100 mark exist, with the most affordable starting at just €40 (Château Dutruch Grand Poujeaux, Moulis en Médoc, Petit Dutruch). For those looking to splurge, worry not – two…
Source : https://www.decanter.com/wine/wine-regions/bordeaux-in-paris-top-restaurants-and-bars-503520/
