Calling all Los Angeles oenophiles! Star Wine List, the renowned guide to exceptional wine experiences, has just unveiled an updated and curated collection of the City of Angels’ finest wine destinations.
Leading the charge is Taylor Parsons, a sommelier and wine consultant who brings her expertise as Star Wine List’s new LA Ambassador. Parsons has handpicked nine stellar establishments, adding them to the existing venue list to create a comprehensive guide for wine lovers navigating LA’s vibrant scene.
"Wine bars are flourishing across the city, buzzing nightly with young and trend-setting crowds, united by a shared passion for the latest natural wines," Parsons observes. "Simultaneously, restaurants are investing heavily in their cellars and specialized teams, resulting in an explosion of top-tier wine programs. Ride-sharing apps like Lyft and Uber have also transformed the landscape, removing the barrier of driving home and encouraging bolder wine exploration," she adds.
Some of the notable additions to Star Wine List’s LA guide include the acclaimed A.O.C., the intimate Buvons, and the stylish Juliet. These, along with the other carefully selected venues, offer a diverse range of experiences, from casual gatherings to sophisticated tastings. For a complete list, visit starwinelist.com or download the app.
"Los Angeles is a city of dreams, and with this expanded Star Wine List collection, we’re thrilled to showcase amazing wine havens for visitors and locals alike," says Krister Bengtsson, Star Wine List’s Founder and Publisher.
Star Wine List also offers the convenience of up-to-date wine lists for many featured restaurants and bars, directly on their website.
About Star Wine List
Star Wine List is the award-winning global guide to exceptional wine bars and restaurants. Accessible through its app and website (starwinelist.com), Star Wine List was launched in Stockholm in 2017 and now encompasses more than 45 countries. Each venue is meticulously chosen by leading wine professionals.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Taylor Parsons, LA Ambassador for Star Wine List
Editor: Welcome, Taylor! We’re thrilled to have you here today. Los Angeles is known for its vibrant food and drink scene, but the recent updates to Star Wine List’s curated collection really shine a spotlight on wine culture in the city. Can you tell us what inspired you to take on the role of LA Ambassador for Star Wine List?
Taylor Parsons: Thank you for having me! I’ve always been passionate about wine and the community surrounding it. When the opportunity arose to work with Star Wine List, I saw it as a chance to connect with local wine lovers and help them discover the incredible venues we have in Los Angeles. The city’s wine scene is flourishing, and I wanted to showcase the diverse selection of establishments that cater to all tastes.
Editor: You’ve handpicked nine exceptional wine destinations for this updated guide. What criteria did you use to select these venues?
Taylor Parsons: Great question! My selection process was guided by a few key factors: the quality of their wine offerings, the expertise of the staff, and the overall experience they provide. I wanted to highlight places that not only serve fantastic wine but also create an inviting atmosphere for patrons. Each spot tells a story and contributes uniquely to the rich tapestry of LA’s wine culture.
Editor: That’s fascinating! With so many options available, what do you think sets these nine venues apart from the rest?
Taylor Parsons: Each of these venues stands out for a reason. Whether it’s a remarkable wine list with rare selections, a rotating menu of local varietals, or an innovative approach to pairing wine with food, they all bring something unique to the table. Plus, many of them focus on creating community through wine—hosting tastings and events that engage people in the conversation around wine.
Editor: Speaking of community, how do you see the role of wine bars evolving in LA, especially given the rise in interest from younger audiences?
Taylor Parsons: Wine bars are definitely evolving and becoming more inclusive. There’s a shift towards a more casual, welcoming environment where people feel comfortable exploring new wines without feeling intimidated. Young wine drinkers are looking for experiences that are fun, educational, and social—all attributes that many of these venues are embracing. It’s a really exciting time for the wine culture here!
Editor: What advice would you give to those who are just starting their wine journey or looking to explore the wine scene in LA?
Taylor Parsons: I’d say, don’t be afraid to ask questions! Wine can often feel daunting, but the community is incredibly supportive and friendly. Try different varietals and styles, and don’t hesitate to seek recommendations from knowledgeable staff at these bars. Also, explore both local and international wines; there’s so much out there to discover!
Editor: Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Taylor. With such an exciting wine scene, we can’t wait to see how it continues to evolve. Is there anything else you’d like to add before we say goodbye?
Taylor Parsons: Just a heartfelt invitation to everyone—explore the wine scene! Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious newcomer, there’s something out there for everyone. Cheers to discovering great wine in Los Angeles!
Editor: Cheers to that, Taylor! Thanks again for joining us today. We’re excited to follow your journey as LA’s Wine Ambassador and witness the growth of the wine culture in this vibrant city.