“Viva Las Vegas”? Here at Wine Spectator we think that the saying should be: “Vino Las Vegas.” Looking beyond the lure of the casinos and the endless entertainment, Las Vegas is also one of the top cities to drink wine in the United States—with three Wine Spectator Grand Award winners calling it home, along with more than 60 other Restaurant Award-winning spots with fantastic wine lists. (That’s also why it’s a must-stop for Wine Spectator’s annual Grand Tour—a night of over 200 wines scored over 90 points coming to “Sin City” on May 10.) With so much to sift through, we reached out to five top Las Vegas sommeliers for the “diamonds” of the local wine scene: from the flashy steak houses on the Strip that are worth the hype to a beloved Thai spot stocked with aged gems. Don’t miss out on these somms’ spots too, each holding a Restaurant Award-winning wine list. Check out their picks!
“Las Vegas has long been a destination for wine lovers, and in recent years, some exceptional spots have emerged off the Strip. My personal go-to (if I’m not enjoying one of my properties) is Wineaux, located in the Southwest part of the valley. Opened last year by a few friends of mine—chef Shawn McClain, Richard Camarota, and Nick Hetzel—Wineaux has a fantastic wine selection, delicious food and a lively, laid-back atmosphere.”—Harley Carbery, corporate wine director of Las Vegas–based Station Casinos, including Best of Award of Excellence winners T-Bones Chophouse & Lounge at Red Rock Casino and Hank’s Fine Steaks and Martinis at Green Valley Ranch Resort
“Some great spots to enjoy drinks are at the Waldorf Astoria Tea Lounge [now called Peacock Alley]—incredible Strip views, halfway up the hotel on the 23rd floor. Garagiste Wine Bar off the Strip in the Arts District is run by fellow sommeliers who take pride in offering high-quality selections at great prices. Lastly, Level 108 on top of the Strat hotel. Great vibes, solid cocktails, with 360-degree views of all of Las Vegas!”—Andrew Hurley, wine director for Grand Award winner Restaurant Guy Savoy
“One of my favorite places to drink wine in Las Vegas is Jipata. Their stellar wine list hits all the classic notes while also offering off-the-beaten-path gems that sommeliers quietly swoon over. Bank Atcharawan cooks some of the best Thai food in the valley—perfect with an aged Riesling. To top it off, the generous pricing often lands at or even below retail, making it one of the most exciting and accessible wine programs in town.”—Kester Masias, wine director for Best of Award of Excellence winner Harlo Steakhouse and Bar
“I enjoy drinking wine on the west side of town at Crush Pad Wine Bar. I appreciate the great service, flavorful small plates and relaxed environment. The wine bar is ideal for those who want to enjoy a good read, hold study group meetings or simply let the afternoon pass by.”—Igor Rosas, sommelier for Grand Award winner Joel Robuchon Restaurant, MGM Resort
“In Las Vegas, I love to go to Mizumi [Japanese seafood at the Wynn Las Vegas] and Nicco’s Prime Cuts and Fresh Fish [a Best of Award of Excellence winner at Durango Casino & Resort]. The food is great, and the wines are always top; you can tell the restaurants have a great selection to choose from and [the wine] pairs very well with the food. The atmosphere and the vibe are what bring us back.”—Penny Chua, owner and wine director of Best of Award of Excellence winner Lotus of Siam
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