The Second Glass

Sonsie’s lower-level Wine Room offers a dimly lit and enlightening retreat within one of Newbury Street’s trendiest spots. Formerly the Red Room, this cozy space has been a haven for winers-and-diners since 2005. Peek through a glass wall into a temperature-controlled wine cellar, organized horizontally in black triangular sections, as excessively knowledgeable wait staff hustle efficiently in and out, retrieving and replacing bottles.
Though the 250-bottle-strong wine selection accomplishes an impressive level of variety, it cleans up with quality as well. Find both Pinot Grigios and drier, more acidic Pinot Gris. Choose between popular Sauvignon Blancs (like Cakebread and Pascal Jolivet Pouilly Fume) and other, more obscure options. For red lovers, the menu offers over 15 Italian reds from regions like Tuscany and Piedmont, as well as beloved and bold Zinfandels and fruity California Cabernets. Unwind and have your fill of samples before committing to a glass or a bottle. Order from a seasonal sampling of Sonsie’s upstairs menu and enjoy classic jazz and trendy melodies that harmonize with exposed-brick walls and candlelit tables. A chic crowd mingles in the middle of the bar and couples canoodle in a back-of-the-room nook. From Argentina to Alsace, and from Sonoma to South-Australia, Sonsie’s Wine Bar is as far-reaching as it is fabulous.

Don’t Miss:

2004 Los Vascos Cabernet Sauvignon – Chile. $38/$9
The rocky soil of the Chilean landscape breeds a wine that’s full-bodied and not as fruity. This Cabernet is deep in color and uniquely smoky in flavor.

2000 Cliff’s Edge Mount Langi Ghiran Shiraz – South Australia $41/$10
Splurge for a glass of this full-bodied Austrailian Shiraz. Accents of sour fruits give it an intense aroma and a rich flavor.

2003 Reserve “Ribeauville” Trimbach Pinot Gris – Alsace, France $38/$9.50
A classic Pinot Gris, this Trimbach is a go-to with its fruity and smooth tones of grapefruit and tart cherries.