The first time I visited Le Rubis, a tiny blue-collar wine bar near rue Saint-Honoré, I was reminded of American happy hours, the beer replaced by chinon and the pretzels by charcuterie. In the 20 years since, I've found that casual bars à vin, like those below, are Paris' best places to try France's artisan wines.
La Cave d'en Face
More than 250 wines are curated by sommelier Pierre Forget at this shop in the 18th arrondissement. The peach blossom and almond scent of a Château Moulin Caresse Montravel sauvignon blanc/semillon blend will leave you swooning._ 40 rue des Cloys; 33/01/4606-0385_
Le Rubis
At this bar opened in 1948, owners Albert and Josette Pratt serve more than 20 affordable glasses, specializing in juicy reds from Côtes du Rhone and Beaujolais and value whites from Burgundy's Macôn and the Loire's Cheverny. 10 rue du Marché Saint-Honoré; 33/01/4261-0334
Vingt Heures Vin
Owner Alexandre Siboni pours gems from Languedoc-Rousillon at this Montmarte spot filled with regulars. Try the Les Creisses, a spicy, chewy syrah and grenache blend. 15/17 rue Joseph de Maistre 33/09/5466-5067; vingtheuresvin.com
Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels
In the heart of posh St. Germain des Prés, this hideaway has a jaw-dropping selection of bordeaux and burgundies, including the nectarlike dessert wine Château d'Yquem, all by the glass._ 7 rue Lobineau, 33/09/5490-2020; compagniedesvinssurnaturels.com_
Le Verre Volé
Grab a table at this teeny wine bar in the 10th and sip while savoring house-made boudin._ 67 rue de Lancry, 33/01/4803-1734; leverrevole.fr_
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