There’s never been a better time to be a wine enthusiast in Lake Charles. From boutique bottle shops to upscale wine bars and food festivals, Southwest Louisiana is quickly becoming a destination for lovers of the vine. Whether you’re planning a girls’ getaway, a date night, or a solo sip-and-shop adventure, here’s your guide to the best wine experiences Lake Charles has to offer.
Wine Shops in Lake Charles
Vin Ami Boutique Wine & Spirits
Next to the beloved Bodega Restaurant & Wine Bar, Vin Ami Boutique Wine & Spirits is bringing a fresh, elevated experience to Lake Charles’ wine scene. Owned by Ryan Kennedy, Bodega’s general manager and a Wine Spectator-recognized sommelier, Vin Ami specializes in small-production wines, rare liquors, and curated finds. Guests can sample select pours using the Coravin system, making it easy to discover new favorites. From craft beers and unique seltzers to artisan cheeses, charcuterie, and giftable goods, Vin Ami is a go-to for refined taste and thoughtful offerings. With wine tastings on the horizon, Ryan’s deep expertise and passion promise to make Vin Ami a standout destination for connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.
The Wine Store
Enjoy a full-sensory wine experience at The Wine Store, a family-owned gem offering red and white wines from regions around the world. Their weekly wine tastings take place every Thursday from 5:30–7:30 p.m., inviting guests to explore new varietals in a relaxed setting. The store also features a cozy sipping room, where you can unwind with a glass and enjoy a menu of flatbread pizzas, charcuterie, and small bites. Planning a gathering? Their private party room is ideal for celebrations or small events. Whether you’re picking up a specialty bottle for a dinner party or savoring a flight with friends, The Wine Store brings global flavor with a local touch.
Lake Street Liquor
A cherished local staple for over 50 years, Lake Street Liquor continues to be a go-to destination for premium libations and unmatched hospitality.Owned by Ashley Rozas, the shop is known for its vast, carefully curated selection and its warm, welcoming service. From fine bourbons, whiskeys, scotch, and cordials to medium-to-high-end wines and local craft brews, Lake Street Liquor offers something for every palate. Guests can also take advantage of keg services and event support for weddings, parties, hunting clubs, and more. Stay updated on the latest wine arrivals and tasting events by following Lake Street Liquor on Facebook.
Restaurants & Wine Bars
Lake Charles is home to a variety of fine dining establishments that offer thoughtfully curated wine lists to complement their menus. Whether you're looking for an intimate tasting, an upscale pairing dinner, or a cozy afternoon sip, these spots deserve a place on every wine lover's itinerary:
Bodega Restaurant & Wine Bar
Bodega Restaurant & Wine Bar blends rustic charm with modern elegance, offering a warm, intimate setting for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike. Now a full-service restaurant, Bodega serves authentic Italian dishes alongside charcuterie boards, pizzas, and house-made jams. With over 300 wines from around the world, the venue has earned the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence and recognition as a White Star Venue by Star Wine List. Whether you're gathering with friends or planning a celebration, Bodega is a hidden gem where every visit feels like a special experience.
Ember Grille & Wine Bar – L’Auberge Casino Resort
Voted Louisiana’s best modern American steakhouse, Ember Grille & Wine Bar inside L'Auberge Casino Resort pairs exceptional cuisine with an elegant, inviting atmosphere. Sip from over 240 wine selections—the most extensive cellar in the area—and savor gourmet dishes crafted for perfect pairings. With glowing stone fireplaces and a sophisticated wine bar, Ember is where unforgettable meals and meaningful moments come together.
Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse – Golden Nugget
For an elevated wine experience paired with world-class dining, Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse at the Golden Nugget is a standout. Boasting Wine Spectator’s Best Award of Excellence, the wine list is expertly curated to complement the menu’s USDA Prime beef, fresh Gulf seafood, and decadent desserts. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply savoring a quiet evening, Vic & Anthony’s offers a refined, romantic setting where wine takes center stage and every pour enhances the moment.
The Bekery
Though not a traditional wine bar, The Bekery is a delightful French-inspired bakery that now offers wine and champagne service in the afternoons, adding a bubbly touch to its cozy charm. It's the perfect place to unwind with a glass in hand and a pastry on your plate—think almond croissants with sparkling rosé or lemon tarts paired with a crisp white. Whether you're stopping in for a treat or taking sweets to-go with a bottle from a nearby shop, The Bekery delivers simple indulgence with Parisian flair.
Wine Events & Festivals
Rouge et Blanc Wine & Food Festival
Set on the beautiful grounds of McNeese State University each fall, Rouge et Blanc is an elegant celebration of wine, food, and community. With hundreds of wines to taste and gourmet small plates from top chefs, it’s a signature event in Southwest Louisiana.
Louisiana Food & Wine Festival
A toast to Southern flavor and hospitality, the Louisiana Food & Wine Festival is a must-attend celebration for food and wine lovers alike. Taking place September 18–21, 2025, in Lake Charles, this multi-day event showcases over 300 varieties of wine, beer, and spirits, alongside tastings from 40+ restaurants and celebrated chefs.
Hosted by Visit Lake Charles, the festival highlights the very best of Louisiana and the South—from culinary icons and beverage experts to Cajun and Creole culture, Gulf seafood, local artisans, and live music. With all-inclusive tasting events, chef demonstrations, and curated pairing experiences, it’s the ultimate opportunity to sip, savor, and celebrate everything that makes Louisiana unforgettable.
Raise a Glass in Lake Charles
Whether you're swirling a bold red, sipping sparkling rosé, or exploring local pairings at a festival, Lake Charles offers a rich and ever-growing landscape for wine lovers. From long-standing local shops and elegant dining rooms to vibrant events that showcase the soul of Southwest Louisiana, every glass tells a story—and there's always something new to discover. So, plan your wine-inspired getaway and come savor the spirit of Lake Charles—one pour at a time.
