Located in downtown Kirkland, The Grape Choice has established itself as more than just a wine store—it’s become a community cornerstone where wine enthusiasts gather to celebrate exceptional vintages and forge lasting connections. As the holiday season approaches, this beloved establishment continues to showcase its commitment to building community through an impressive calendar of events that bring neighbors together in the spirit of good wine and good company.
A Kirkland Icon: Four Decades of Wine and Community
The Grape Choice stands as a symbol of female entrepreneurship in Kirkland, celebrating four decades of service to wine lovers throughout the Eastside. What began as a modest wine shop has evolved into a welcoming gathering place where residents and visitors alike can explore the nuances of wine culture in an inviting environment. Let’s take a closer look at how this local establishment continues to enrich Kirkland’s community fabric through its diverse offerings and special events.
Pioneering Female Entrepreneurship on the Eastside
For forty years, The Grape Choice has been a beloved fixture in Downtown Kirkland, demonstrating the impact of female entrepreneurship and community-focused business.
This wine haven boasts the most extensive privately owned wine selection on the eastside, offering connoisseurs and casual sippers alike an impressive array of options to explore. The warm, inviting atmosphere extends beyond the carefully curated bottle shop to include comfortable indoor seating where guests can unwind with a glass of their choosing while chatting with knowledgeable staff about the stories behind each vintage.
From Boutique Bottle Shop to Beloved Wine Bar
The Grape Choice experience extends outdoors as well, with its expansive water view patio providing the perfect backdrop for afternoon tastings or evening gatherings. This transition from traditional wine retailer to full-service wine bar reflects the establishment’s ability to grow with the community’s needs while maintaining its core identity.
Despite its popularity, The Grape Choice has preserved its intimate feel, creating spaces where wine facilitates connections and memories. The shop’s long-standing presence in Kirkland speaks to its successful blend of expert wine curation and genuine hospitality.
Evnts That Cultivate Connection
Community engagement lies at the heart of The Grape Choice’s business model, with weekly wine tastings serving as popular gathering opportunities for locals to expand their palates. These educational yet relaxed events showcase everything from regional specialties to international discoveries, often featuring winemakers who share the stories behind their craft.
The establishment’s regular live music nights transform the space into a lively venue where neighbors can unwind with a glass of wine while enjoying performances by talented local musicians, creating an atmosphere that feels both festive and connected to Kirkland’s cultural scene.
No Reservations, Just Community
Beyond these weekly offerings, The Grape Choice hosts monthly wine club release tastings that have cultivated a loyal following of enthusiasts who appreciate the thoughtfully selected bottles and the community that has formed around them. The calendar is further enriched by anticipated seasonal events that have become local traditions, including their renowned annual Champagne Tasting and Thanksgiving Tasting.
Perhaps most charming are the monthly birthday celebrations, where everyone born in that month is invited to share in the festivities. True to its welcoming philosophy, The Grape Choice maintains a no-reservation policy, embracing a casual atmosphere with community-style seating that encourages conversation between strangers who often leave as friends.
