The finest wine bars in Edinburgh

If you want to get Pickled, this is the place to do it. The wine bar has fast become an Edinburgh institution, famed for its offering of the classic pairing: wine and cheese. Housed in a basement on Broughton Street, it is cosy, candlelit and intimate, but not in a way that limits the venue to romantic meetings. In fact, it’s a favourite for after-work get-togethers and friends seeking a convivial spot for a catch-up, especially as it represents very good value.

Wine can be purchased in 125ml and 175ml measures, as well as by the bottle. At Pickles, platters (cheese and meat), pates and nibbles are de rigueur, rather than main meals. And if you fall in love with the accompanying chutneys, you can purchase some to take home with you. There is no booking taken, but as it’s so popular, we recommend arriving early to be in with a chance of getting a table.

Another continentally styled wine bar, The Bon Vivant has been around since 2008. Tucked away on Thistle Street, the venue serves a range of mains, along with boards and bites showcasing regional and locally sourced produce. A great option for those wishing to celebrate, the bar boasts a large choice of champers from a budget-friendly Baron de Marck, through to the splurge-friendly Krug Grand Cuvée. Most of the wines can be ordered as a 175ml, 500ml or 750ml, plus there’s highballs, sours, sippers and shims to be enjoyed from the cocktail menu.

Found slightly hidden away, along a bend in Dean Street, is Good Brothers Wine Bar. It’s become a firm favourite in its Stockbridge locale and, like many of its dog-friendly neighbours, allows patrons to bring along their four-legged best friends. Advocating sustainable winemaking and viticulture, Managing Director Graeme Sutherland has been in the industry for over 20 years. The range here is international, with wines available by the glass or by the bottle. And as far as the food menu goes, there is plenty to titillate the taste buds. Small and large plates are offered: baby aubergine with feta, pomegranate and pink tahini; chicken wings with hibiscus glaze and pickled daikon; and lamb chops with herb mash, mustard aioli and roasted tomatoes being just a few examples.

Another venue proving that Stockbridge is a great choice for a stylish wine bar crawl is Smith & Gertrude. Launched in 2015, the independent venue offers simple, high-quality products sourced from nearby retailers including Company Bakery, East Coast Cured and George Mewes Cheese. The vibe here exudes earthy, effortless style, with the contemporary design incorporating bare wood chairs and tables laid with vases of seasonal wild foliage. The cheese is a highlight at S&G, with Bonnet, Cashel Blue, Comté, Marechal and Picos de Europa among the large range of choices. Order each individually or opt for a selection. Charcuterie platters, bar bites, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and fine chocolate treats can also be ordered.

Founded by Nino in 2013, Veeno was conceived to bring the Italian tradition of aperitivo to the UK. As such, it revolves around after-work and weekend socialising, with good wines and snacks. The vinos come from its founder’s own family vineyard, Caruso & Minini, in Sicily. Try a tasting flight with one red, one white and one rose, an organic selection or a sparkling flight for those who prefer bubbles. There’s a large range of Italian themed cocktails, spirits, beers and ciders too. And those who are feeling hungry can order an authentic pizza, pasta, salad, bruschetta or dolci. And if you thought wine bars were solely for the nighttime, you’d be wrong. This one serves afternoon teas, too!