(Andy Tullis/ Bulletin file photo)

Portello Winecafe

Wine lovers have plenty of good options in the area to tempt their palates but Portello Winecafe (portellowinecafe.com) in Bend’s Northwest Crossing neighborhood was voted our readers’ favorite. Co-owner Lance Newman attributes Portello’s success over the past 11 years to its carefully curated wine lists that are changed seasonally three to four times each year.

“We really want customers to feel our wine list is super accessible and fun,” Newman said. “But they can also get a great wine education here if they’re interested.”

Portello’s happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and locals’ night on Monday (when all wines on their menu are just $5 per glass all night) are popular, as are its wine flights offered on weekends. But perhaps what put Portello over the top this year is it’s small but tasty seasonal food menu, complete with sweet treats such as chocolate soufflé and creme brulee.

Sip Wine Bar

Don’t let the small size of Sip Wine Bar (sipwinebend.com) on Galveston Avenue in Bend fool you, its rotating selection of wines from the Northwest and around the world earned it second place in our poll and it even has live music on the outdoor patio in the summer months. While you’re there, try the grilled cheese sandwich or the cambozola stuffed dates.


Good Drop Wine Shoppe

Third place goes to Good Drop Wine Shoppe (gooddropwineshoppe.com) in downtown Bend, which sells wine and sake to go in addition to serving wine by the glass. Good Drop Wine Shoppe frequently hosts wine tastings and the knowledgeable staff can provide cellar selection and other wine consulting services for those looking to buy a special bottle or stock their cellar.

— Kim Himstreet, The Bulletin