Top 3 Vegas Spots for Wine Lovers
The mega clubs and the musical festivals means Las Vegas is no longer a place limited to card sharks and high rollers. As casinos on the Strip continue to see declining gaming revenues as reported by the Review Journal, it’s clear that visitors are looking for a little more than just an exciting gambling experience in this urban playground. But, the one thing that you can count on to fuel the city’s and the state’s economy is the free flowing booze on-tap for its visitors. Whether you are a fan of craft beer, love to experiment with cocktails, or measure the good times by the wine bottle, Sin City caters to all tastes and preferences.
From the nightclubs, wine bars and even the dive bars, casino operators saw that one of their greatest advantages in this gambling slump is their non-gaming revenues. Although they aren’t directly in competition with the land-based facilities, online portals have quickly gained an edge in the gambling industry, generating more profit by applying the convenience of technology. In a report displayed on Calvin Ayre, it revealed that the managers of the Gala Casino brand observed a growth in the number of customers after increasing their mobile betting offerings. This was an alarming statistic for casinos on the Strip, but like previously stated they still have a boozy-edge over the online hubs that has worked in their favor since online portal first came around in the late 90s.
Wine is our pick of poison, so for all those wine lovers out there, here are a few joints in Vegas that provide a good atmosphere and an impressive cellar-to-boot.
Aureole at Mandalay Bay
The bar might not have a wine cellar, but the four-story wine tower should make up for it. Aureole serves a wide selection of small plates (almost like Spanish tapas) that pair well with the wine list. Those craving a full meal will have to go down the staircase winding around the tower made of 50,000 bottles from around the globe, almost begging you to order a bottle or two for your table.
Upper view of Aureole Wine Lounge at Mandalay Bay , credit:evabin.wordpress.com
Double Helix Wine & Whiskey Lounge at the Grand Canal Shoppes, Venetian
Their wine collection may not compare to Aureole, but at least all 50 wines that they house at Double Helix Wine and Whiskey Lounge are available by the glass. Happy hour goers take note of the half priced wines available daily from 3 to 6 pm. And if you’re looking to up your wine knowledge for a cheap price, $5 wine tastings occur every Friday from 5 to 7pm.
credit:thrillist.com
Wine Cellar & Tasting Room at the Rio
For that classic wine and cheese combination in an actual wine cellar, the Rio have got your covered. With more than 100 wines by the glass, including the classics and the rare varieties, this rustic and casual place has everything you need to relax and escape the Vegas insanity.
This is a guest post from David Edwards but I love Vegas and visit almost every time I go home to see the family.