WEST UNIVERSITY. Both wine shop and wine bar, Cova not only promises an appealing place to test-drive offerings but also an opportunity to buy bottles for home consumption. At the bar, choose from a thoughtful selection of more than 40 wines, available by the taste, the glass, and in flights. During the day, cheese plates are available, but after 5pm, a delectable tapas menu moves to the forefront. An ongoing schedule of classes and dinners lets you expand your wine knowledge (and do some more tasting). You can also stock your cellar with a few bottles from the shop's discounted array of over 1200 wines.

DOWNTOWN. Although its longevity doesn't quite match that of the 19th-century building it occupies, La Carafe has been a favored downtown presence for many years. Dim and subtly lit by lamplight and candlelight, it's ideal for a romantic evening out. You can see Market Square from the outdoor tables, and a jukebox filled with classic tunes and some rather eclectic options gets lots of traffic. Even better, the character-laden bar's wine list is satisfying and substantial ­ much like La Carafe's popularity.

GALLERIA. For an evening that mixes sophistication with casual charm, you can't do better than The Vintage Bar. Sample wines from approximately 40 selections, or opt for a beer or a glass of champagne. From Thursday to Saturday, musicians play in-house for added ambience, and an upstairs space showcases local art. If the weather's mild, consider the outdoor, tree-shaded patio, and if the munchies strike, cheeses, pâtés, and similar treats can be had.