Buying wine in Brussels: ten Brussels wine merchants
01 April 2022
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Brussels is the beer city par excellence. That’s not exactly news. But did you know that wine lovers are also in seventh heaven in our capital? All over Brussels, you’ll find plenty of places where you can taste and buy exceptional wines. The rise in popularity of natural wines in particular seems to be unstoppable in the city.
Although most supermarkets these days tend to have plenty of wines on offer, nothing beats a visit to a specialist wine merchant! In addition to a warm welcome, you will also receive a wealth of bespoke tips and information. After all, every occasion, dish or personal preference, deserves a fine wine! You also support local trade and sustainable winegrowers. You won't find a 'chateau migraine' here, but you will encounter a dizzying array of quality wines for every budget!
Titulus
On the border of Matongé and the European district, Titulus is one of the best wine cellars in Brussels. Since 2011, this has been the place to go for a diverse palette of mainly French niche wines. It’s safe to say that Titulus is a Brussels pioneer of the import and distribution of natural wines. A huge focus is put on organic and biodynamic wines here. You will also find other fermented drinks such as beer from certain Brussels microbreweries, organic gin, an assortment of ciders and even dozens of varieties of traditional Junmai sake.
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© Louchébem
Jane
Have you heard of Tarzan and Jane? We are not talking about the famous jungle couple but about this excellent wine bar/wine cellar in the Châtelain neighbourhood. What do they have in common? They work together in perfect harmony and everything revolves around nature! Coralie and Matthieu had one goal in mind: to bring natural wines at democratic prices to Brussels aficionados and they have succeeded admirably.
© Jane
Cave Coop
Wine shop Cave Coop is located on rue Lesbroussart in Ixelles. Here you’ll find wine importer Philippe Paridans whose entire life has been devoted to natural wines. In the early 2000s, he was the first to put natural wines on the menu in several Brussels restaurants. In 2015, he opened a treasure trove of mostly European natural wines to the general public. In his selection, you will find established names and up-and-coming winemaking talents. Good to know: you can have your order delivered to your home by bike.
© Cave Coop
Antidotes
Another top address in the Flagey district: Antidotes. You’re greeted by Oona, the owner’s cute dog, who walks over, wagging her tail at you, closely followed by wine connoisseur Alexis. You are in good hands here. Alexis takes the time to initiate you and tell you his wine secrets. He almost never speaks of natural wines. “Living” wine is the key word here. Looking for a place for a teambuilding, a birthday party or a masterclass in oenology? Look no further.
Basin & Marot
This authentic address in Ixelles welcomes you to a friendly universe where natural wines - organic or biodynamic - reign supreme. You will immediately notice that Basin & Marot is a bit like a cosy pub where conversation and exchange are the norm. Jean-François Basin and his team share their passion with great enthusiasm. Only wines that connoisseur Jean-François himself likes are recommended here, not counting trends or hypes of the moment.
© Basin & Marot
Mig’s World Wines
Close to Place Stéphanie, Mig’s World Wines is a theme park for lovers of alcoholic beverages from all over the world. You’ll find more than 700 wines from no fewer than 35 countries, including Belgium. Mig, Xavier, Lucy and Christian help you in your search for that rare gem that will take your feast to unprecedented heights. Mig's World Wines also offers oenological workshops and tasting sessions..
© Mig's World Wines
La Trinquette
A little further on we find La Trinquette, a cheerful place. After all, “trinquer” means to toast in French. Wine is and remains a celebration. One that brings friends together, far from the arrogance sometimes associated with wine culture. And that’s exactly the atmosphere that prevails in this cosy wine bar/wine shop in the Châtelain neighbourhood! Those who wish to replenish their wine cellar at home can always find an excellent selection of French natural wines, especially from the Languedoc-Roussillon region.
Yves Winegallery
On to the epicentre of Brussels, rue Antoine Dansaert is also a hotspot for wine aficionados. At Yves Winegallery, you will find pure cool-climate wines, natural wines and organic wines with a perfect taste balance. The fact that making good wine is an art is literally underlined by a small selection of works of art..
Le Repaire du Sommelier
Christophe Le Berre has been a professional sommelier since 1997. He worked at the leading Brussels restaurants Bon-Bon and Bouchéry for several years. His dream was to start his own business, all about wine and spirits. And it came true in 2013, when the Frenchman started welcoming visitors to his hideout (“Repaire” in French) on the rue de Flandre, just off Place Sainte-Catherine. At Le repaire du sommelier, he organises tastings and wine courses. Orders are delivered to your home, every morning by bicycle.
Gudule Winery
Gudule Winery is part of Greenbizz, the incubator for sustainable businesses in Laeken. The rising phenomenon of urban wineries inspired founder Thierry Lejeune to start working as a wine producer himself. He does not have his own grapes, but imports them from various wine regions. However, he does orchestrate the entire vinification process down to the last detail. He deserves to be proud of this effort. His cuvées, named after the patron saint of Brussels, are artisanal and organic wines, full of character, with a minimal ecological footprint and a unique blend.
