Wine Bars for Beginners

Snobby wafting of austere aromas and swishing of grape inside an expensive glass (that you’re afraid to break), is the image most wine bar virgins have of these haute spots. In reality, one has nothing to fear, because the staff members of Baton Rouge’s various wine bars are there to help you make the most of your experience.

The Loft, 10111 Perkins Rowe Suite 140 and 304 Laurel St. #1B

What to drink: For wine newbies walking into one of The Loft’s—sometimes referred to as the Wine Loft—two locations, manager Ronnie Bellanger has one suggestion: ask questions! Don’t be afraid to tell the experienced bartenders what you like and ask for suggestions. And it’s OK to order one of their ambrosial martinis from the drink list. “What you like, the person next to you may not like,” he says about appeasing your palette. Bellanger adds that there is no need to be “snooty” with wine selection and to just order what you think tastes good.

What to order: “We have the best brie in town,” Bellanger says. He also suggests the succulent lamb lollipops.

Why you should try it: The Wine Loft provides a cosmopolitan atmosphere in two of Baton Rouge’s most frequented late-night areas. The setting is dimly lit, relaxed and the ambiance is ripe for conversation. Bellanger urges taking note of the weekday drink specials, most notably the $2 glasses of house wine on Monday and free champagne for ladies on Tuesday. “We want you to have the experience of tasting a good product,” he says. “No plastic cups.”

The Grape, 10111 Perkins Rowe Suite 160

What to drink: Server Julie Helmstetter agrees that to get the most out of a wine bar experience, one should never be intimidated to just ask! “You can try new things here,” she says, adding that The Grape offers half-glasses of wine for those who just want a taste. “[You] don’t have to commit to a whole glass.” She also notes that there are wine tastings on Thursdays for those looking to expand their palate. But for those who enjoy direction, Helmstetter suggests one red and one white staple: Earthquake Cabarnet and Hanna Sauvignon Blanc.

What to order: The tasty flatbread starters are a favorite at The Grape: Try the steak and Gruyere or the smoked salmon. Also enjoy the Ahi poke, a sashimi grade tuna with ponzu glaze and wonton strips.

Why you should try it: Have a seat indoors and relax on the couches in what Helmstetter calls the “relaxed nook” under some groovy lighting. The purple accents trace the interior and the overall fun of the look creates an atmosphere that is just plain cute! There is also a nice patio, particularly enjoyable in fall weather, with a fountain and live music events.

Enoteca Marcello’s, 4205 Perkins Road

What to drink: Catherine Langlois, general manager at Enoteca Marcello’s, says she and the rest of the staff are ready to help newcomers navigate their wine selection. She said servers try to narrow down your selection to a red or a white, then to a lighter or heavier wine before factoring in your meal. She noted that customers can taste anything that is open and drink a glass before purchasing the bottle.

What to order: Chicken or veal mole, pork chops and veal osso bucco are menu favorites. Prego!

Why you should try it: Nestled in a cantina atmosphere with vintage prints lining the walls, diners often forget they are sitting in a strip mall. Enoteca Marcello’s has a welcoming vibe from the first glass until an empty bottle (or two).

“A lot of people like the coziness of the restaurant. There’s wine surrounding the whole place,” Langlois said. “Just come by and see us.”