Spencer's Restaurant.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MOLLIE KIMBERLING
Memorable wine and food experiences have been intertwined with the culture of the Coachella Valley since the halcyon days of Sinatra and supper clubs. Today’s restaurants elevate the experience, dedicating themselves to curating wine selections that bring guests back again and again. Whether you’re into California wines or French, natural wines or great value, these establishments pour something for everyone.
Most Eclectic Wine List
Spencer’s Restaurant, Palm Springs
Tucked at the base of Mount San Jacinto, Spencer’s Restaurant is nothing short of picturesque. Add the “traditional and classic, yet eclectic” wine list, as described by restaurant manager Therese Perez and wine director Andre de Carteret, and the experience becomes even more memorable. Spencer’s list offers “wines made from every grape variety, in every region, and at every price point” to create an elevated, unforgettable experience for each and every guest. spencersrestaurant.com
Best Selection of Natural Wines
Beautiful Day, La Quinta
Like its food menu, Beautiful Day’s wine offerings focus on one of the hottest trends among oenophiles: natural wines. Chef and owner Justin Jenkins seeks out “playful wines” with memorable stories that spark conversation. Expect funky whites, carbonic reds, and everything in between. itsabeautifulday.love
Best for California Wine Lovers
Jillian’s, Palm Desert
Proprietor and chef Jay Trubee relishes in supporting fellow local businesses, so 30 years ago when he opened Jillian’s (named after his daughter), his wine list exclusively featured California wines. Though the list has expanded over time, it has stayed true to its California roots and includes a combination of wines that are familiar and others that are less common. jilliansfinedining.com
Most Extensive French Wine Selection
Le Vallauris, Palm Springs
Bruce Barrett, sommelier at Le Vallauris, leverages the network he’s built over his 38 years in the Coachella Valley to curate a combination of legendary and rare-allocation French wines to match the traditional French cuisine featured at Le Vallauris. According to Bruce, “the ability to try wines you’ve never had before is what makes the dining experience special.” sohohouse.com
Johannes.
Most Focused by the Glass List
Johannes, Palm Springs
Since opening his namesake restaurant in 1999, owner Johannes Bacher has become a bit of a wine aficionado. Over the years, his wine list has grown to more than 450 bottles, with a focus on grüner veltliner and pinot noir to match the dishes on his menu. A rotating selection of at least 30 wines by the glass satisfies and instigates regular repeat visits. johannespalmsprings.com
Best Value Wine List
Si Bon, Rancho Mirage
The wine card at Rancho Mirage staple Si Bon is small but mighty. Bar manager Adrien Franco aims to curate “a selection of wines with maximum value,” so he seeks out the highest-quality wines at excellent price points to surprise and delight his diners. sibon-sogood.com
Adrian Franco Bar Manager, Si Bon.
Best Food and Wine Pairing Experience
Cuistot, Palm Desert
On your next visit to Cuistot, don’t be surprised if sommelier Farouk Chaabi offers you a complimentary sample of an off-menu wine to match the entrée you ordered. He abides by the philosophy that “wine and food are better together,” and he loves to introduce guests to new pairings. cuistotrestaurant.com
Most Accessible Wine List
Copley’s on Palm Canyon, Palm Springs
Copley’s owner and business manager Greg Butterfield believes that “wine should be fun and friendly” and that all guests should feel confident ordering a splash of vino regardless of their wine knowledge. To that end, the wine list includes a description of each variety to start a dialogue about their preferences. copleyspalmsprings.com