Oenophiles are often disappointed with find wine is either totally absent from bar and restaurant menus or that the options are extremely limited and overpriced. However, there are some great places to drink wine in Rio and it doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. Here is our selection of places those longing for vinho can get their fix.
Side note: Though not yet up to the scale of production of some of its neighbours, Brazil does in fact make some excellent wines and these are certainly worth hunting down.
Casa Tão Longe, Tão Perto
Exemplifying the area’s laid back, hipster vibe, the wines at TLTP are on tap and come exclusively from small Brazilian producers. Capacity is massively increased by lining up beach chairs along the pavements nearby, but it can still get crowded at peak times. Food options are light and delicious – mostly breads, cheeses, and charcuterie. Reasonably priced so you can drink without fearing the bill!
Cave Nacional
Cave Nacional stocks exclusively Brazilian wines and operates both as a wine store and wine bar. The concept is interesting – rather than peruse a wine list, you are invited to enter their cellar and discuss the different options with a member of staff who will give you information and recommendations on the different wines (staff speak English so there’ll be no issues for non-Portuguese speakers).
Aprazível
This restaurant, located high in the hills of Santa Teresa, is often recommended as having one of the most breathtaking views in the city. What is less often mentioned is that they have a really impressive wine list. It’s not cheap, but if your wallet can take it then you’ll be rewarded with some fantastic wines to drink while you take in those amazing vistas.
