Wine Bars in Orange County, CA

Some people think that a glass of wine is the drink of love. Some say it is part of the soul. Whatever your take on the reds, the whites and even the blushes (throw in some sparkling!), a glass of wine can be the start of some provocative conversation or a romantic evening.

In Orange County California, wine bars are popping up everywhere-from Fashion Island, to the beaches and even in strip malls. They're cozy, intimate and encourage lingering. The savviest of them have jazz and blues nights, canapes or light meals and even have begun hosting private parties, even some business functions.

Here are some that even the highest of county connoisseurs have been talking about:

Wine Gallery in Corona Del Mar. This place has been around since 1999. There is a very nice wine shop on the premises. They have a wonderful reputation and an extended domestic list. To find out hours of operation and tasting schedules log onto: www.cdmwinegallery.com

Great Legs in Newport Beach. This venue not only boasts the wine tasting bar but a very comprehensive and knowledgeable wine staff in the accompanying boutique, they love to tell their customers all about the extensive wine gadget collection they find and sell. To see if this intimate little nook is what you are in the mood for cruise their website at www.greatlegswine.com

Hi Time Cellars in Costa Mesa. Hi Time likes to hold "events" and changes their calendar all the time. They try to have speakers, classes and seem to be a little more tutorial than some of the others. Might be perfect for wine newbies or those who are looking for more information on some new vintages, wineries and blends. Hi Time suggests that you check the calendar on their website and sign-up ahead of time for the tasting seminars of your choice. www.hitimewine.net

Francoli Market located in the county's famous Fashion Island outdoor mall. It's a upscale cafe and retail store for Italian products in general. This busy spot has been a favorite for not only those who are weary after a day of shopping, but the surrounding business people and their clients as well. It is always crowded and not near as intimate as most other places that like to bill themselves as a wine bar-yet they are and have always been quite popular within the community. Check out their website at www.fancoligourmetemporio.com

The last two hot wine bar spots have an added feature that can not only warm your soul from the wine, but with entertainment as well! Both have entertainment on Thursday and Friday evenings. Always wonderful to have such a welcome added feature.

Overstreet Wine Merchant and Bar in Newport Beach. This hot spot features jazz and blues. Not always are the artists known much ahead of playtime, but the hostess/receptionist suggests a quick check with them before on their website: www.winemerchantbh.com

The Mission Winery in San Juan Capistrano has various types of live music and they, like the above venue suggest you check the roster out further on their website: www.missionwinery.com. What makes this place fun is that it is in historic San Juan Capistrano, so there is a lot of fun little stores and art galleries to check out and shop in before you decide the right time to try out this cute little nook.

Wine bars are up and coming throughout all parts of the Orange County scene-even have a one in Laguna Beach Canyon and one in Laguna Niguel that is run by a mother and daughter team. Many of the above are expanding their appetizer menus to include light gourmet meals.

The best part about any wine bar is that given the chance, they will help you pick out that special glass to enjoy with them and then give you the knowledge on how to pair it up with dishes at home to enhance your enjoyment further.