Madrid´s Best Traditional Wine Bars (+ Tapas)
Madrid offers an endless selection of bars and good places to eat, but…if you’re new to the city, where do you start? We have compiled a list of some of our favorite traditional wine bars in the city center. Visit one of them for a glass of vino after a busy day of sightseeing, or you may even want to dedicate an afternoon to doing a wine and tapas `bar crawl´ since most are within walking distance of each other. If delicious Spanish food and wine in an authentic traditional setting is what you are looking for, you will certainly not leave disappointed from these local bars. On of the best ways to discover the local wine and tavers is with a Tapas tour in Madrid. These tours offer you a great insight into local culture (besides tapas food and local drinks) But in case you prefer to avoid groups and are more keen on discovering by yourself this post is really interesting for you.
You can find the location of the different bars in this map with our recommended wine bars in Madrid
Vinícola Mentridana – San Eugenio, 9 (Antón Martín area)
A very welcoming and traditional tavern to have a glass of wine or two in the Antón Martín area. A wide selection of domestic and international wines. Also good for vermouth. On occasion in the winter, they serve mulled wine typical of northern Europe. Try their tostas de sobrasada and their empanadas or quiches.
La Venencia – Echegaray, 7 (Plaza Santa Ana area)
A great option for lovers of sherry, the exquisite wine from Jeréz in the south of Spain. The ambience is very traditional, and is visited by locals and tourists alike. Without a doubt, a pleasant return to the past.
Stop Madrid – Hortaleza, 11 (Chueca area)
One of the 20 oldest bars in Madrid, opened in 1929. More than 50 different wines offered by the glass; to be accompanied with sheep or goat cheese, delicious canned goods, jamón and other cured meats.
La Ardosa – Colón, 13 (Chueca area)
More than a century old, the history and tradition behind this bar is unmistakable. Enjoy the most traditional Spanish tapas like croquetas, tortilla, or salmorejo.
Matritum – Cava Alta, 17 (La Latina area)
An attractive tavern/restaurant in which to enjoy tapas with wine, of course. Not old like the others (it opened its doors in 1996), but its style and fantastic location make it stand out. Magnificent and carefully selected wine options since the property also has its own wine shop.
Bodegas Rosell – General Lacy, 14 (Plaza de Atocha area)
Very close to the Atocha train station, this tavern has been around since 1920. Today, it continues to maintain its traditional character, noticeable before you walk in the door with its tiled facade. Extensive wine list for a traditional Spanish meal.
El Quinto Vino – Hernani 48 (Nuevos Ministerios area)
Opened in 1995, this tavern is a gathering place for lovers of good wine in the Cuatro Caminos area. It is shop, bar and restaurant all at once and offers a varied selection of wines and delicatessen. The food is of a very traditional style as one would expect.
El Aloque – Torrecilla del Leal, 20 (Lavapiés area)
Well-known and small locale in the Lavapiés neighbourhood ideal for enjoying some tapas alongside some of the wines from their extensive menu. The typical food choices are a tosta or canapé of cheeses, cured meats or sirloin.
Tempranillo – Cava Baja 38 (La Latina area)
The Cava Baja street in the La Latina area has the excellent reputation as the street of wines of Madrid. “Tempranillo” is undoubtedly one of the street´s highlights. A huge wine bottle rack is displayed over the bar making quite the statement.
There is nothing like having some free time to visit these places and enjoy the assortment of vino and tapas. If you prefer not to stroll in the city, you can ejoy great tapas and wines with this wine tasting activity in Madrid. In many of Madrid´s bars, we are coming across an increasing variety of wines from this region. Sometimes forgotten when it comes to wine production, Madrid is currently producing more and more interesting wines, especially those of the garnacha grape from the San Martín area. A wine tour of Madrid and its wineries is always a good idea. And if not possible, there is nothing better than discovering local wines in its traditional-style bars.
Cheers!
