Chuck’s Fine Wines
Why we love it: Owner Kurt Hebel covers all the bases, from dry roses to $2,000 bottles. “We have 20 percent of the wines that 80 percent of the population looks for,” he says. “But we specialize also in introducing customers to that other 80 percent of the wine world.” Try this: The balanced, red-fruited Montinore Estates pinot noir ($17.99). 23 Bell St., Chagrin Falls, 440-247-7534, chucksfinewines.com
Highland Hops & Vines
Why we love it: Co-owner Adam Bossin does more than just sell wine — he asks questions, tracks purchase history, advises on pairings and learns about customers to match them with a perfect bottle. “We do a really good job of turning our customers on to new things,” he says. Try this: Yoga Wineworks Nadi riesling ($12.99) is semisweet, well-balanced and versatile. 544 Miner Road, Highland Heights, 440-683-1338, highlandhopsandvines.com
Royal Park Fine Wine
Why we love it: This spot toasts to its impressive California collection. “California seems to specialize in a fruit-first wine,” says wine sommelier George Zaboura. “It’s less earthy and more fruit-forward, and California is famous for that.” Try this: You’ll think you just bit into a juicy, overripe plum when you sip the Freemark Abbey Napa Valley cabernet sauvignon ($37.99). 17608 Pearl Road, Strongsville, 440-878-8463, royalparkwine.com
Rozi’s Wine House
Why we love it: When owner Gary Rossen’s grandfather opened the shop in 1937, he nurtured relationships with importers that would allow the store to secure scarce, vintage-dated wines even to this day. “It’s impossible for [other shops] to get older vintages unless they try and get them at an auction,” says Rossen. Try this: The 1962 Romanée Conti ($7,600) — only three bottles of the dry red make it into Ohio every year. 14900 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 866-769-4443, rozis.com
The Wine Spot
Why we love it: Be sure to check out this wine shop’s full bar, which serves more than 15 wines by the glass, offers daily specials as well as weekly tastings. “If people don’t like what we have by the glass, they can select any beer or bottle of wine off the shelf and enjoy it,” says owner Adam Fleischer. Try this: The lighter, crisp Aubry Champagne ($59.99). 2271 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-342-3623, thewinespotonline.com
