Houston’s gay nightlife may be a lot of things, but one of them isn’t a beverage bastion for connoisseurs. Maybe it doesn’t have to be, but one local gay man makes sure there’s an inspiring wine glass nearby.

As well heeled and fancy-footed urban nightcrawlers know, Boheme is steps away from most of your favorite gay bars. So it makes sense that one of gay Houston’s own is the solution to one teeny little issue. The venue's certified sommelier (photo) tells Houston Press that bringing his expertise to the gayborhood was born of personal experience at the gay bars.

“When I was single and I was going out in Montrose,” said Boheme beverage director Hal Brock (who's now in a relationship), “I couldn't understand why no one at a gay bar could write a good wine list.”

Everyone was drinking “Bud Light or Red Bull and vodka,” he noted woefully.

“We gays are so smart and we run so many industries. Why is it that we can't write a great wine list?” he asked rhetorically with a proverbial wink.

Since Brock started back in September, Boheme now boasts more than 60 bottles and over 20 by the glass. You can pay for the privilege of the guy knowing his stuff (up to $150 per bottle), but there are some delicious choices at every price point.

What’s more? Brock updates the offerings weekly so you can keep your pallet on point. At least you can have a glass or two of the good stuff before you head up the street for a Bud Light.

Photo by Jeremy Parzen for Houston Press