Let's be honest: Tahoe isn't Napa. But that doesn't mean you can't have an amazing wine tasting experience with your bride tribe. From cozy wine bars to nearby wineries worth the drive, here's how to add wine to your Tahoe bachelorette weekend.
Wine Bars in South Lake Tahoe
Glasses Wine Bar
The go-to spot for bachelorette groups
Located in the Heavenly Village area, Glasses is the most popular wine bar in South Lake. They have an extensive by-the-glass selection, tasting flights, and a cozy atmosphere perfect for groups. The staff is great with bachelorette parties and the outdoor seating is lovely in summer.
- Vibe: Upscale casual, great for groups
- Flight options: Yes, customizable tastings
- Food: Small plates, cheese boards
- Reservations: Recommended for groups of 6+
The Loft
Wine + views + fun atmosphere
Above Heavenly Village, The Loft offers wine, cocktails, and a fun party vibe. Not strictly a wine bar, but they have a solid selection and the atmosphere is more energetic than a traditional tasting room. Live music some nights.
- Vibe: Party atmosphere, younger crowd
- Best for: Groups who want wine AND a scene
- Food: Full menu, fondue is popular
Artemis Lakefront Cafe
Wine with lake views
A Mediterranean restaurant with an excellent wine list and gorgeous lakefront patio. Not a dedicated wine bar, but the setting is unbeatable for a classy afternoon with the girls.
- Vibe: Upscale, romantic
- Best for: Nice lunch with wine, sunset drinks
- Reservations: Highly recommended
Nearby Wineries Worth the Drive
El Dorado County Wine Region (45-60 min drive)
The closest real wine region to Lake Tahoe, El Dorado County (also called the Apple Hill area) has 70+ wineries along scenic country roads. It's not Napa, but it's charming, less crowded, and produces excellent wines—especially Zinfandels and Rhône varietals.
Top Wineries for Groups:
Boeger Winery - One of the oldest in the region, beautiful grounds, group-friendly. Their Barbera and Zinfandel are standouts.
Lava Cap Winery - Stunning views from their tasting room, great Petite Sirah. Picnic area available.
Holly's Hill Vineyards - Rhône-style wines, beautiful patio with mountain views. Very bachelorette-friendly vibe.
David Girard Vineyards - Bordeaux-style wines, elegant tasting room, scenic drive to get there.
Planning an El Dorado Wine Day:
- Leave Tahoe around 10am
- Visit 3-4 wineries (don't overdo it)
- Have lunch at a winery or in Placerville
- Back to Tahoe by 4-5pm
- Consider booking a driver/tour for safety
Truckee River Winery (20 min drive)
The closest actual winery to South Lake Tahoe, located in Truckee. They make wines from grapes sourced from various California regions. Small production, intimate tasting room. Worth a stop if you're heading to the North Shore anyway.
Wine Tasting + Other Activities
Wine doesn't have to be a full-day thing. Here's how to fit it into your weekend:
Afternoon Wine After Boat Day
Morning boat → afternoon at Glasses Wine Bar → dinner → casino. Perfect Saturday flow.
Wine + Spa Day
Morning spa treatments → lunch → wine tasting at Glasses → back to cabin for getting ready → dinner out.
Wine Picnic at the Cabin
Don't want to go out? Create your own tasting at the cabin. Buy 4-5 bottles from a local shop (Raley's has decent selection), make a cheese board, do blind tastings. Cheaper and just as fun.
Add a Boat Day to Your Wine Weekend
Wine in the afternoon, boat in the morning. The 36' Weekender is perfect for groups.
Check Availability →Tips for Bachelorette Wine Tasting
Logistics
- Designate a driver or book a tour service
- Call ahead for groups of 8+—some tasting rooms have limits
- Pace yourselves—tastings add up fast at altitude
- Eat something before or during
Making It Special
- Wear matching outfits or sashes (tasteful ones—staff appreciates classy groups)
- Bring a Polaroid camera for photos
- Buy a bottle signed by everyone for the bride
- Create a tasting notes card for everyone to fill out
Budget
- Tahoe wine bars: $15-30/person for a flight + snacks
- El Dorado wineries: $10-20/person tasting fees (often waived with purchase)
- Transportation: $200-400 for wine tour service (split among group)
Wine Tour Services
If you're doing El Dorado County or want to drink without worrying about driving:
- Tahoe Wine Tours - Dedicated wine tour service, customized itineraries
- Lake Tahoe Adventures - Various tours including wine options
- Uber/Lyft - Works for short distances (Glasses, etc.) but not practical for winery hopping
