Many of Paris’s food and drink establishments now proudly feature wine on their menus, and the city has become internationally renowned for its natural wine offering. From wine bars to cafes, restaurants and tasting rooms, these natural wine destinations showcase the burgeoning sector at its finest.
Le P'tit Pinard
Natural wine is created in full respect of nature. While it may be difficult to completely define it, the general consensus is that natural wine is made with minimal chemical and technical intervention, little-to-no sulphur and by small producers in small batches. Better for both the environment and those who drink it, natural wine has witnessed colossal success in France and the country produces one of the widest offerings in the world.
Le P’tit Pinard
Le P’tit Pinard is a charming wine shop and bar, run by Charlotte Poumailloux and Julien Pontoizeau. In a light-filled space located on a quiet street in the 11th arrondissement, the duo offer a warm welcome. Pontoizeau is in charge of the wine offering, while Poumailloux magics up a selection of dishes from the compact, glass-fronted kitchen. The menu changes weekly, featuring seasonal ingredients in celebration of the French terroir, and Le P’tit Pinard also serves brunch at the weekend. Expect small plates that are ideal for sharing, as well as cheese and charcuterie boards, not to mention a selection of delicious desserts – the perfect accompaniments to a superb wine offering.
Le P’tit Pinard, 18 rue Saint Ambroise, 75011 Paris, +33 (0)9 8702 0011
La Curieuse Compagnie
La Curieuse Compagnie
La Curieuse Compagnie is a wine shop and bar that celebrates natural wine. The young, knowledgeable team behind the bar are happy to share their recommendations on the organic, biodynamic and natural wines that line one wall. While you can simply pop in to purchase a bottle to take away, we recommend you sit in to appreciate the laid-back atmosphere of the place. Try a pét-nat (the colloquial term for natural sparkling wines), or opt for one of the many reds to pair with cheeses, charcuterie, or well-executed small dishes such as cured fish. La Curieuse Compagnie is a great place to while away an evening over a flavoursome glass or two.
La Curieuse Compagnie, 32 rue de l’Echiquier, 75010 Paris, +33 (0)9 8667 4142
Septime La Cave
© MICKAEL A. BANDASSAK
Septime La Cave
Anyone familiar with the name of Septime on rue de Charonne will know this is a restaurant with high standards and excellent produce. This philosophy is carried through to the wine bar Septime La Cave, which has a wide range of natural wines. Visitors can find a bottle to take away or spend a leisurely hour or two over drinks, soaking up the cosy atmosphere. To accompany the wine, Septime La Cave serves up charcuterie and cheese boards, as well as showcasing the restaurant’s innovative small dishes, such as eel foie gras.
Septime La Cave, 3 rue Basfroi, 75011 Paris, +33 (0)1 4367 1487
La Robe et La Mousse
© DORIAN ROLLIN
La Robe & La Mousse
A sibling to craft beer bar and restaurant La Fine Mousse, La Robe & La Mousse places the focus on both beer and wine. Enjoy French craft beer from the bar’s 16 taps and two cask pumps, or opt for one of the natural, organic or biodynamic wines, served by the glass or bottle. Take a seat at the wooden bar or head down to the vaulted cellar to enjoy your drink, along with a selection of charcuterie and cheese, warm pies or small bites to eat. La Robe & La Mousse is a perfect option for wine and beer drinkers alike.
La Robe & La Mousse, 3 rue Monsieur le Prince, 75006 Paris, +33 (0)9 8129 2989
228 Litres
228 Litres
Situated in the 9th arrondissement, recently opened 228 Litres comprises a wine shop, wine bar and tasting room. Its location in Montmartre has a rich history of wine bars – the area was not considered a part of Paris until 1860 so Parisians would come to bars around nearby rue des Martyrs to avoid paying the city’s taxes on the beverage. Specialising in vintage wines, 228 Litres carries over 300 wine references, including a large selection of organic, biodynamic and natural options. Choose a bottle to take away, or sit in to discover some of the carefully selected wines by founder Pierre Renauld (customers should note there is a €10 corkage fee per bottle). Renauld is passionate about wine – a love that he is keen to share with others – and 228 Litres also hosts tastings and masterclasses.
228 Litres, 3 rue Victor Massé, 75009 Paris, +33 (0)1 7160 5157