Whether you're looking to emulate the A-listers, pick up a gift for the host or simply step up your spiritual knowledge (er, your knowledge of spirits), Du Vin Wine & Spirits in West Hollywood is your spot. Rene Averseng and Stacie Hunt say theirs is the only Southern California wine shop specializing in European wines, and we haven't found any reason to doubt them. Located inconspicuously in the shadows of San Vicente Boulevard, it's the cottage shrouded in ivy. The front door likely will be propped open, as if to make room for the overstocked interior; there are a million bottles to choose from, the majority of them amazing. For those on a budget, the highly knowledgeable staff is helpful without being snobby; should you need a bottle of something French that costs more than your car, well, they'll be particularly happy to help. 540 N. San Vicente Blvd., #2, W. Hlywd. (310) 855-1161, du-vin.net.

—Diamond Bodine-Fischer