Top 10 New York wine experiences

701 West (701 Seventh Ave.)

In his three-star review of 701 West, New York Times food critic Pete Wells writes: “Before you sit down, you’ve already learnt that wine is front and centre; that it is more likely to come from classic European estates than, say, Macedonian villages still using amphorae that Odysseus drank from; that the ideal customer is not likely to walk out on being offered a $66 apéritif; and that the restaurant expects to attract so many of these customers, a single Champagne trolley is not enough.”

Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels (249 Centre St.)

Expect under the radar selections such as Xarel.lo from Penedès, or a California Valdiguié and Tannat blend nestled among the classics at this lower Manhattan wine bar. Bespoke wine tastings are available on request.

Daniel (60 E. 65th St.)

Head sommelier Raj Vaidya can help guide you through the 25,000-bottle wine cellar, or you can order chef Daniel Boulud’s four-course prix-fixe menu at a surprisingly affordable US$158 with top wines to match (US$142) for a US$300 two Michelin-star treat.

Del Posto (85 10th Ave.)

If you’re in the mood for something Italian, then go to Del Posto. And if you want to splurge, try the eight-course captain’s menu matched with an eight-vintage extravaganza of Giacomo Conterno Cascina Francia Barolos.

Eleven Madison Park (11 Madison Ave.)

Come for the three star menu, though the wine won’t disappoint either – it wins awards too. There is a constant buzz about EMP (pictured above), no matter the season. Most recently, chef Daniel Humm and long-time business partner Will Guidara parted ways, and Humm was reportedly dating Steve Jobs’ widow. The events aren’t linked.

Gotham Bar & Grill (12 E. 12thSt.)

Wine director Josh Lit has one of the most impressive wine lists you’ll find in NY, starting with those by the glass, neither trying to impress with pricey classics nor forcing you to Google wines from Tajikistan. The wines pair well with chef Victoria Blamey’s American brasserie fare at this 35-year-old institution.

Niche Niche (43 Macdougal St.)

“Wine should be f*cking fun,” Niche Niche says on its website, so if your definition of fun includes having dinner with wines at a 30-seater venue curated each night by a different wine expert or winery rep, then pull up a chair.

Manhatta (28 Liberty St.)

Here’s where to go for wine matched with a Danny Meyer menu, including butter-poached lobster and soft shell crab tempura, that comes with a view of Manhattan from 60 floors up. Happy hour features US$17 Champagne by the glass, while the wine list is Burgundy-centric. No tipping.

The Modern (9 W. 53rd St.)

The Modern is everyone’s go-to restaurant for excellent wine, two Michelin star food, including dishes like a foie gras tart glazed with slow roast peaches, and impeccable but friendly service – great for a lunch when you want to see and be seen. Its 3,000-bin wine selection from around the world reflects MoMA’s global perspective. And yes, there’s a museum in the building.

TAK Room (20 Hudson Yards)

With its location in Hudson Yards, Thomas Keller’s new venue offers a view of the river and the yard’s Vessel and Shed architecture, plus a peek back into the ‘60s with live music, continental cuisine and a tableside trolley service. Drinks manager Michel Couvreux suggests beginning with a classic cocktail before diving into the weighty Franco-American wine list.