More drinks and updated tasting rooms are here in the Southwest just in time for summer patio dining, sipping and savoring the flavors, and the views. In the high desert of Arizona and the urban landscapes of Denver are two exciting updates to well-established dining options.
Bailey Badillo
Los Milics – New Location in Tucson, AZ
Out in the small town of Elgin—about an hour southeast of Tucson—is high desert and beautiful landscape that transforms dramatically from the desert of the city. And out there among lush vineyards and wide, open fields are steel monoliths, marking Los Milics vineyard, tasting room and casitas for lodging. You can read about the original location in our article, Sip and Stay at Los Milics. If you’re lacking a car or time to drive all the way out to Elgin, there’s good news: Los Milics just opened a tasting room in Downtown Tucson.
Right in the urban heart of the city on Congress Street, you’ll find a corner brick building with all of their own-made wines and imports available for tasting. Co-Owner and wine maker Ita Milic says that being in the city is a buzzing shift. Instead of travelers and people lingering, she’s catering to the working crowd grabbing lunch, or the city nightlife looking for a place to stop and sip.
“We wanted to bring everything you’ll find in our tasting room, but now we have some other options here, too,” she said. “We brought in some tasty non-alcoholic mocktails and menu items we’re excited about.”
This is the third location to open, with another tasting room in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Tucson location plans to follow a similar menu, with locally sourced ingredients that change seasonally. Expect small bites, appetizers and tasty entrees here.
Learn more at losmilicsvineyards.com. Plan your trip to Tucson at visittucson.org.
Vaultaire Bar
Vaultaire Bar
Vaultaire – A New Bar Under La Foret in Denver, CO
Another unique spot near downtown Denver is the French restaurant, La Foret. You can read about it in our article, Into the Forest: How La Foret Cast its Spell in Denver. Known for its enchanting woodland-inspired dining room, you’ll walk through the restaurant (maybe eat here first), then head down to the basement for Vaultaire. Officially opening March 12, 2026, the focus shifts from the forest above to the glow of candlelit stone walls and vintage spirits. The cocktail program highlights rare and vintage spirits alongside French and European–inspired craft cocktails built for balance and depth. A carefully curated wine list rounds out the menu, featuring classic producers, emerging winemakers and a rotating selection of vintage Madeira.
La Foret Executive Chef Jamie Rutherford continues the culinary thread from upstairs with French-inspired small plates—precise, layered bites designed to pair effortlessly with the cellar’s spirits and wines. Music also plays an important role in the experience, with records spinning nightly from a curated vinyl collection that pulls from European synth wave, post-punk, underground disco and late-night club culture. Vaultaire will operate Thursdays through Saturdays from 6 p.m. until late. Walk-ins are welcome, and the space will continue evolving over the coming months as the team expands its vintage wine offerings, cocktail program and menu.
Learn more at instagram.com/vaultairedenver. Plan your trip at visitdenver.com.