Cauldron

Issue date: 2/19/08 Section: A & E

Media Credit: Ben Felleman Corkscrew

Cocktails, like clothing, music and interior décor, often have a way of coming in and out of style. Margaritas got their start in the South in the 1950s and quickly became a poolside favorite nation-wide; "Sex and the City" ushered in the era of the Cosmopolitan, and James Bond made martinis a household name. But one drink-of-choice in particular has held its place among the trendiest of the times: the classic glass of wine.

Long considered the "fruit of the gods," wine has maintained a with-it and fashionable reputation for more than 6,000 years--an undeniably impressive run.

Recently, however, a new trend has started popping up everywhere, taking this traditional favorite back into the style spotlight. In the last couple of years, the wine bar has become a Montrose and Midtown-area staple, replacing pubs and hipster-friendly dives as the new neighborhood watering hole. With half a dozen new bars opening within the last 18 months, it appears that this trend is here to stay.

While a good bottle at many of these local hotspots can cost upward of $100, there are also more budget-friendly options that give students the chance to sample the good life and imbibe in a tradition older than Jesus himself.

Although there are several wine bars to choose from, some in particular stand out, both in terms of atmosphere and selection. A few to sample include Corkscrew, 13 Celsius and Max's Wine Dive, all popular spots within a 5-10 minute drive from campus.

First up is the cozy Corkscrew, 1919 Washington Ave., which boasts an impressive 250-bottle selection but still maintains a friendly and laid-back vibe that makes anyone feel right at home.

With events such as Monday's acoustic music showcase and Tuesday's Steak Night, which features $13 steak and potato plates, starting at 6:30 p.m., it's easy to see why the bar has developed a notable group of regulars. Other food options are available all week, including a tasty $14 cheese plate, as well as paninis, pizzas and truffles.

Wines by the glass start at $5 and range in flavor from crisp sauvignon blancs to rich pinot noirs. For those who don't know much about what to choose, the bartender, or sommelier, is a knowledgeable resource. The Corkscrew defines itself by its slogan, "carpe vino…baby" and by its low-key approach to class, making it a perfect stop for a post-exam chill-out.

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