The Deep South is not usually our first stop when we think of wine regions but when it comes to wine experience, Charleston, South Carolina has it going on.
This gorgeous city has beautiful beaches, quaint cobblestone streets, incredible historical landmarks, and most importantly, a stellar food and beverage culture.
Over the last couple of years, this town has risen through the ranks to be one of America’s best food cities, and what always goes well with food? Wine. James Beard giants along with unique mom-and-pop shops are staking their claim in Charleston and along with it comes the wine lists.
Restaurants like Park & Grove are not only serving up the most beautiful seasonal dishes but their wine list is impeccable. You can order wines by the glass or the bottle to complement your meal from some of the world’s best wine regions. Charleston Grill is the fine dining establishment within the iconic, historical landmark Charleston Place Hotel. Their dinner menu will delight you but it’s nothing in comparison to the epic wine list they’ve curated.
And then there are the wine shops that are also wine bars like the legendary Wine & Company which has a lovely list of wines by the glass accompanied by required delicious things like charcuterie boards. Graft is way too cool with a really gorgeous wine list, plus a wine club, a newsletter, and all sorts of funky things to go along with their rad vibe.
Vintage Lounge is a nightlife hit that focuses on wine. You go for the ambiance and stay for the delightful selection of wines they have. The cheese selection doesn’t hurt. And if you really want to send it, have dinner at Edmund’s Oast, enjoy your wine at the table, and then go visit their wine shop called The Exchange which features over 1500 small production wines from around the country.
Ready to book your flight? Hold on, there’s more. Charleston has a winery too! Deepwater Vineyard is the only winery in the city but it takes that responsibility very seriously. They stay true to their roots and produce only muscadine wine, the only grape grown in the entirety of the Southern US.
If you’re looking for your next vacation destination, Charleston is it. So many beautiful sights to see and delicious foods to eat, and now you know where to head for your wine!
