Since opening in 2001, La Cave des Papilles has risen to become arguably the most dynamic, well-stocked, and brilliantly-curated natural wine shop in Paris. Its daffodil-colored exterior displays made-to-measure posters of the cult winemakers featured at the shop’s regular tastings. Founder Gerard Katz and partners Florian Aubertin and Aurélian Brugnau enjoy an industry pre-eminence that ensures a healthy supply of rare and allocated bottles among the shops 1200+ selections. Prices are fair and despite the shop’s deserved reputation for support of more-than-organic farming and low-sulfur vinification, the selection remains broad-minded enough to please even more conservative palates. Keep an ear open for the shop’s occasional block parties, which reliably feature jazz bands, fresh-shucked oysters, and a who’s-who of France’s natural wine community.
Practical information
Address: 35 rue Daguerre, 75014
Nearest transport: Denfert-Rochereau (4, 6)
Hours: Open every day
Telephone: 01 43 20 05 74
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Reviews of interest
Not Drinking Poison in Paris (2013) “A veritable Ali Baba’s cave of the treasures of natural winemaking France… Prices are fair, even kind in some places. The selection of cru Beaujolais is impeccable… La Cave des Papilles invests in upstart vignerons.”
Time Out (2012) “Cave de quartier, elle ne prône pas pour autant l’intégrisme naturel, et les plus frileux pourront aussi y trouver quelques appellations plus classiques.”
More than Organic “… a superb selection of the best and most natural winemakers, regular tastings, reasonable prices, and extremely knowledgeable staff.”
Wine Terroirs (2007) “… both well stocked (about 1000 wines) and relaxed, with its period interior architecture. All french regions, including grower Champagnes and 10 to 15 “Pet’ Nat’s”, for ” Vins Petillants Naturels”, or natural sparkling wines.”