Patch Picks: Best Places to Get Your Wine On

22342 El Paseo, Rancho Santa Margarita

Uncorked Wine Bar is starting to get a reputation around town, and that’s a good thing. Patrons don’t know where to start when describing this unique gem nestled in the heart of town. “Cozy and comfortable” are just a few words they use as they describe the beautifully decorated shop and wine bar, the soft lighting and the intimate atmosphere that’s both romantic and inviting. Many say that stepping inside Uncorked is like going on vacation; one can easily forget they’re in suburbia when they walk through the doors. And if forgetting their troubles is the agenda, they won’t have any trouble doing so with the great selection of wine at fantastic prices. Happy hour is from 4-7 each night; wine lovers can enjoy a 3-oz. glass of wine for just $3. The wines change every few weeks, so there’s always something new. And if the vino’s not enough to lure people in, the food surely can be. Customers rave about the cheese plate, described as generous and meant to be shared. The spinach pizza, baked brie and crab cakes are a few other highlights on the menu. Top off the night with a treat: Uncorked now serves delicious cupcakes from frostingontop.net. Ladies Night is every Wednesday, and on the weekends, patrons can enjoy live jazz or guitar music. What more convincing do you need?

31441 Santa Margarita Parkway, Rancho Santa Margarita

The OC Register once described this place as “a shining star for the city but also a shining star for Orange County.” Pizza E Vino is the only authentic wood fire Neapolitan pizzeria in southern California. To a hungry customer, this translates into a gourmet, crispy-thin Neapolitan pizza baked to perfection in an imported, wood burning oven. Sit outside on the patio near the lake, take in some classical Italian music, have a glass of wine and you’ll have a hard time forgetting you’re not in Italy. Pizza E Vino boasts a large selection of Italy imported wine, as well as reds and whites from California. Feel free to bring in a bottle of your own; wine service is $15 per 750 ml for outside bottles and there’s a limit of two per party.

29911 Aventura, Rancho Santa Margarita

Amazing Grapes may call itself a store, but it’s arguably so much more. Come see for yourself why wine lovers from all over Orange County make the drive to this place. Here, one can find a huge selection of wines imported from all over the country at unbeatable prices. And if it’s not in stock, the staff will be more than happy to ship to your door. Try the Bigwine Cabernet Sauvignon:2007 for just $14.98 this week. Described as a “bouquet of black cherry liqueur, cassis, new oak and forest floor followed by full-bodied, mouth watering blueberries, blackberries, vanilla toast and allspice” this wine is perfect for both an amateur or a connoisseur. On Wednesday through Saturday nights, the wine bar opens at 5 pm for tasting and treats. Whites and reds are available at a 2-ounce pour for just $4-6. On flight nights, patrons can enjoy three tastes for the bargain price of $10. The pours are generous, the staff is knowledgeable and friendly and the atmosphere is cozy yet fun. If you want a bite to eat, the figgy cheese plate won’t disappoint. Live music on Wednesday nights is an added bonus.