Sip and Savor: 9 Top Wine Bars in Singapore for Oenophiles

Singapore may be known more for its stellar cocktail bars and craft beer scene, but the wine culture has steadily grown over the years. Beyond the flashy wine lists at fancy restaurants, Singapore now boasts specialty wine bars where enthusiasts can truly immerse themselves in the world of wine.

Whether you're a budding wine lover looking to expand your palate or a seasoned oenophile seeking unique pours, Singapore offers excellent wine bars to satisfy every craving. From charming bistros to intimate dens, these venues provide carefully curated wine selections, delicious bites, and memorable experiences.

Here are 9 of the top wine bars in Singapore for sipping, savoring, and discovering new favorites:

Big Wine Freaks - For the Design-Lover

With exposed brick walls, concrete floors, and minimalist decor, Big Wine Freaks exudes understated cool. The wine list showcases small-production, natural wines from micro-farms and sustainably-focused producers in France, Spain, Italy and beyond.

Order a cheese and charcuterie board to complement your vino. Their selection of artisanal cheeses and cured meats is procured straight from Italy, Spain and France. Wine newbies can try an exciting orange wine while seasoned drinkers may opt for something like a biodynamic Ribolla Gialla from Friuli.

With indie music playing and a laidback vibe, Big Wine Freaks is perfect for design-savvy oenophiles seeking natural wines in a hip setting.

13% Wine Bistro - For Trusted Pours

Helmed by Bastian von Keller, a former sommelier at the iconic Long Bar at Raffles Hotel, 13% Wine Bistro offers a thoughtfully curated list focused on Old World regions. The wines are sourced directly from trusted, small-scale producers, so you can be assured of provenance and quality.

Complement your wine with Mediterranean-inspired small plates like grilled Spanish octopus drizzled with Pedro Ximénez sherry vinaigrette. Or opt for a cheese and charcuterie platter showcasing fine French cheeses like Saint Marcellin. For wines, try something like an earthy Vino Nobile di Montepulciano or a supple Pinot Noir from Germany's Baden region.

With its understated sophistication and exceptional wine program, 13% Wine Bistro is perfect for oenophiles seeking wines with impeccable pedigree.

Humpback - For Seafood & Vino

A breezy, nautical-themed restaurant nestled along the Singapore River, Humpback specializes in seafood paired with an expertly curated wine list. They work directly with boutique wineries from regions like Napa, Burgundy and Australia to offer hard-to-find labels.

Humpback's seafood-focused menu changes seasonally based on what’s freshest. Complement dishes like pan-seared Hokkaido scallops or lobster risotto with wines like a crisp Sancerre or layered white Burgundy. Beyond seafood, Humpback also offers Wagyu steak, foie gras, and other gourmet meat dishes catering to heartier red wines.

With river views, stellar wines and succulent seafood, Humpback is perfect for seafood aficionados who enjoy discoverable wines from lauded regions.

Deviate Wine Bar - For BYOB Flexibility

At Deviate, guests are encouraged to “Deviate from the Norm” by bringing their own wines to explore and share. Pay a $25 corkage fee, then sip your wine alongside Deviate’s selection of craft beers, spirits, and bar nibbles like charcuterie and cheese.

Not sure what to bring? Opt for something fun and affordable like a vibrantly fruity Glug Glug Vino Verde from Portugal or a pitch-perfect Prosecco from Italy.

Deviate's casual, eclectic vibe with exposed brick and shared benches fosters social imbibing. It's great for tasting new wines with friends without breaking the bank.

Sip Wine Bistro - For French Flair

Oozing Parisian charm with its wrought-iron tables andCheckered tile floors, Sip Wine Bistro transports guests straight to France. The wine list focuses on French regions, along with benchmark producers from Italy and the West Coast.

Pair your wines with classics like steak frites, ratatouille, or bouillabaisse. Don't miss their weekend brunch featuring artisanal pastries, omelets, French toast and more. Sip also offers craft coffee and tea for daytime visits.

With its Belle Epoque ambiance and French wines, Sip Wine Bistro delights Francophiles. It's perfect for a relaxed French getaway without leaving Singapore.

Apero - For Organic & Natural Wines

Focusing exclusively on organic, biodynamic and natural wines, Apero is perfect for conscious sippers. Their wine list spotlights boutique French producers alongside labels from Italy, Spain, Slovenia and Hungary. You can sample hard-to-find gems like an orange wine from Friuli or a crunchy Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley.

Complement your vino with cheese and charcuterie boards or hearty French fare like duck confit, steak tartare and escargots. The laidback, casual setting encourages lingering over wines and conversation into the night. It's great for trying natural wines without pretense or intimidation.

Vin Geek - For Geeking Out

Catering to the true wine nerd in all of us, Vin Geek offers an extensive selection of niche labels with a high-tech self-service wine dispenser. The list focuses on off-the-beaten-path gems from small producers worldwide - think Assyrtiko from Santorini or Cabernet Franc from Mendoza's high-altitude vineyards.

The dispenser allows you to sample one-ounce pours, encouraging experimentation. Complement with shareable bites like charcuterie, cheeses and flatbreads. For full bottles, visit their retail shop offering rare finds at retail prices.

With its geeky ethos and extensive by-the-glass selection, Vin Geek lets you freely explore unique and eclectic wines.

Merry Go-Round Wine Bar & Kitchen - For Whisky Too

Centered around a restored 1920s merry-go-round, this charming bistro offers wine, whisky and dining under one roof. Their wine list focuses on boutique Australian labels, complemented by selections from France, Italy and California. Merry Go-Round also boasts an extensive whisky selection including rare single malts.

On certain nights, winemakers and whisky distillers visit to showcase their products. Food options range from cheese and charcuterie to Asian and Western sharing plates. With its warm ambiance and lively events, Merry Go Round is perfect for whisky and wine lovers seeking a lively gastro bar experience.

Wine Mansion & Kitchen - For Immersive Wine Events

This sprawling, elegant venue houses a wine shop, restaurant, bar, and event spaces ideal for wine tastings, masterclasses and private functions. At the restaurant, Wine Mansion & Kitchen offers a globetrotting wine list alongside European cuisine in a posh yet relaxed setting.

Don't miss their signature “Bottle Your Own Wine” experience allowing you to blend and bottle a custom red or white to take home. Wine Mansion also hosts events like wines paired with Raclette, Champagne brunches, and celebrations for days like Beaujolais Day or World Malbec Day.

For total wine immersion paired with upscale dining, Wine Mansion is perfect for oenophiles seeking memorable and interactive experiences.

Perfect Your Pairings

Singapore's wine bar scene has expanded vastly in recent years. Oenophiles can now indulge their passion whether seeking natural wines in a laidback setting, iconic regions in a Parisian bistro ambiance, geeky bottles from a high-tech dispenser, or wine paired with whisky and dining.

At their best, wine bars provide curated selections, guiding you to discover new favorites tailored to your tastes. They allow you to explore wines by the glass, venturing beyond your usual picks into diverse styles and origins. Knowledgeable staff help demystify wine, making it fun and approachable.

When visiting Singapore's wine bars, don't be afraid to ask questions, convey your preferences, and step outside your comfort zone. The more you interact and share, the more personalized recommendations you can receive. Focus on wines you enjoy rather than chasing arbitrary ratings or reviews.

Keep an open mind, palate and nose. You never know when a surprising wine will delight you and become your next go-to pour. With an abundance of stellar wine bars now in Singapore, oenophiles have ample opportunities to indulge their passion and make new discoveries.

So grab a glass, open your senses, and savor the journey. At these extraordinary wine bars in Singapore, the only limit is your curiosity.

FAQs About Wine Bars in Singapore

What's the average price range for wines at Singapore wine bars?

Prices can vary greatly, but expect to pay around $15-$20 per glass for standard pours. Reserve wines and special vintages may cost over $30 per glass at some venues. Many wine bars offer more affordable options too, like full bottles under $100 or weekly happy hour deals.

Do I need to dress up to go to a wine bar in Singapore?

Most Singapore wine bars have casual dress codes, though some upscale venues may require smart casual attire. The mood is generally relaxed, so just avoid overly revealing or sloppy outfits. Focus on comfort to best enjoy your wine!

Can I bring my own wines to Singapore wine bars?

Some spots like Deviate Wine Bar encourage BYOW with corkage fees, but most venues expect you to buy from their list. Call ahead to ask about any BYOW policies before bringing your own bottles.

What food do Singapore wine bars offer?

Expect light bar bites like artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, flatbreads, and small plates to complement the wines. Some venues like Humpback also offer more extensive seafood, meat or French fare for full meals.

Are wine bars in Singapore good for wine tastings and events?

Definitely! Many host regular tastings featuring specific regions, winemakers or themes. Others like Wine Mansion specialize in immersive tasting events. Check individual venue websites for their events calendar.

Do wine bars in Singapore offer non-alcoholic options?

Yes, most venues offer mocktails, artisanal sodas, juices, teas and sparkling waters so there are appealing no-alcohol options. Some also serve craft coffee and tea. Just inform staff of your preferences.

Can someone new to wine enjoy Singapore's wine bars?

Absolutely! Reputable wine bars aim to make wine approachable, guiding new drinkers through the experience. Don't hesitate to ask staff questions and convey your tastes to get tailored recommendations as you learn.

What's the best way to experience Singapore wine bars?

Visit a few venues to get a feel for different ambiances and wine lists. Arrive with an open mind, focus on enjoyment rather than Wine knowledge, and experiment to find new favorites. Most importantly, engage with passionate staff and fellow oenophiles to enrich your wine journey!