Seven Ways...
Like any proper oenophile, I've scouted out seven cool hangouts to get that perfect glass of Pinot, crisp coupe of Cremant d'Alsace, or giant goblet of Granache. Be sure to leave your comments below on your favorite South Bay wine spots.
- The Arthur J - I like to sneak in here for the first dinner seating, just after a long day at the beach. It’s never too crowded, and the service is always on point. Each section of their terrific wine list is dedicated to former Hollywood starlets. Try the 2015 Huber ‘Obere Steigen’ Gruner Veltliner with a classic shrimp cocktail. The Arthur J, 903 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, www.thearthurj.com
- Corkshop - This pop-up wine tasting service is the brainchild of two elementary school pals now all grown up. It all started at a small house in El Porto, and has morphed into a moveable feast. Lexi and Courtney will take you through several curated tastings and cheese pairings right in your very own home. This is the modern South Bay Tupperware party. www.corkshop.com
- Barsha Wines & Spirits - Now a South Bay mainstay, Adnen and Lenora have created a foodie’s paradise. This sommelier + chef duo (also hubby and wife) offer amazing tapas and salads to go with their eclectic and forward-thinking wine selections. Not only can you sit for a sip, but they offer a great, affordable wine club. Barsha Wine & Spirits, 917 Sepulveda Blvd., Manhattan Beach, www.barshawines.com
- Uncorked Hermosa - It seems like they’ve been around for ages now, weathering the economic downturn of the earlier part of the century. Thankfully they stuck it out, and Uncorked has become a landmark in beach-town imbibing. Come by for their happy hour and enjoy a $5 wine flight. Uncorked Hermosa, 302 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, www.uncorkedhermosa.com
- South Bay Beer & Wine Festival - For five years running, the SBBWF offers participants the chance to taste wines from all over the globe, and for a cause. The event earmarks a major portion of the proceeds to benefit such groups as Wounded Heroes of America and Pediatric Therapy Network. South Bay Beer & Wine Festival (Late May), Ernie Howlett Park, 25851 Hawthorne Blvd, Rolling Hills Estates
- Gabi James - This reinvented Spanish + French location (formally Zazou) is an ultra-hip place to get such by-the-glass rarities as a Beaujolais to Priorat. Gabi James, 1810 S Catalina Ave, Redondo Beach, www.gabijamesla.com
- The Hollywood Bowl - Alright, it’s not in the South Bay, but you can take the park ’n ride from Wilson Park in Torrance to the best outdoor concert venue in the state of California. If it is an LA Philharmonic sponsored event, you can bring your own wine, sip under the stars, and catch some great acts like Gustavo Dudamel, John Williams, Bon Iver and LCD Soundsystem (the greatest concert I have ever attended, by the way).
* Bonus(es) - A) don't forget about your local Concert in the Park. It's a great way to get outdooors and enjoy some, sun, music, friends, and of course, sneak thermoses of vino, B) LAX's Vino Volo in the Tom Bradley Terminal (if you just can't wait until your flight to CDG), C) your stoop or backyard deck. Nothing beats your favorite wine at home with friends.