2012 Singapore's best drinks: Wine bars

Best for friendly management

Praelum Wine Bistro
The card-operated Enomatic vending machine here, which offers a nice selection of whites, reds, rosés and dessert wines – including affordable options such as Terrazas de Los Andes’ Malbec Mendoza Afincado from Argentina at $5.50 per glass – makes it fun to pick your drink. Adding to Praelum’s appeal is amiable manager Gerald Lu – formerly of IndoChine and winner of 2010’s Singapore award for Best Sommelier – whose welcoming manner makes each visit a memorable one. 4 Duxton Hill (6238 5287, www.praelum.com.sg). Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar. Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight; Sat 6pm-midnight.

Best for a comprehensive selection

Caveau Wines & Bar
Offering artisan coffees by day and superior Euro-wines by night from an Enomatic vending machine (with 16 varieties) or by the bottle – including offerings from suppliers Vineum Fine Wines – this off-Orchard startup appeals to connoisseurs of both types of beverage. Chef barista Tony Tan brews premium blends supplied by Papa Palheta, Nylon, Highlander and Liberty Coffee to accompany freshly baked pastries from Canelé Pâtisserie Chocolaterie. #02-10 Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Rd (6737 2622). Nearest MRT: Orchard. Mon-Sat 8am-midnight.

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Best for cheap bottles

Wine Connection
Sure the wines are youngish at Wine Connection, but they come at bargain prices (did someone say $25 a bottle?). Take one along to any of the nearby restaurants to enjoy with your meal. Paying a small corkage fee on top of Wine Connections’ low prices is still more affordable than forking out for a bottle off a menu. Or linger here for tapas ($5 a plate) and pair your selections with a glass of wine ($7) or beer ($9). #01-06 Robertson Walk, 11 Unity St (6238 6878, www.wineconnection.com.sg). Take a taxi. Sun-Thu 10am-midnight; Fri & Sat 10am-2am.

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