Brunette
A charming wine bar in Kingston's Rondout waterfront district.
About Brunette
In the bustling heart of Kingston’s historic Rondout district, Brunette stands out as a wine bar committed to authenticity and a personal touch. Located on Broadway, the venue greets visitors with its distinctive blush-colored façade and vintage charm. The aesthetic extends inward to a white marble bar and carefully curated vintage decor, making Brunette an inviting spot for locals and visitors alike who are seeking a meaningful wine experience. When Brunette first opened its doors in 2015, it brought a unique vibe to the waterfront neighborhood, replacing the industrial feel with something more delicate yet unpretentious.
The real draw for many, however, is the bar’s focus on natural wines. Here, glasses are filled with selections that boast minimal intervention—often sustainable, unfiltered, and without added sulfites. Co-owners Maxwell Botwick and Jessie Harris, who took over the bar in 2020, have maintained this dedication to natural wines while also expanding the bar's culinary offerings. The menu, known for its eclectic small plates, resonates with the local ethos. Featuring highlights like trout roe nachos and seasonal specials prepared with locally sourced ingredients, the menu mirrors the bar's dedication to authenticity and quality.
What makes Brunette particularly special is its ability to balance its wine offerings with an inviting, purposeful atmosphere. The interior is not just a backdrop, but a part of the experience, adorned with fresh flowers courtesy of local florist Hops Petunia and vintage tableware that tells its own stories. Regulars and newcomers alike enjoy the creative blend of wine and space, where each visit feels tailored and thoughtful, right down to the wine list written in a newspaper-style format with creative descriptions that often include song lyrics or weather-inspired wine picks.
Brunette remains a cornerstone of the Kingston community, known for its genuine hospitality that reflects both the personal histories of its owners and the collaborative spirit they champion. Partnering with local artisans and producers enriches the menu and supports the local economy, making Brunette not just a place to drink, but a place where community and creativity meet.
Parking: Street parking is readily available in the Rondout area
Vibe: Casual elegance with a touch of the vintage, set in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
What to try: Trout roe nachos and any rotating natural wine special
Who it's for: Wine enthusiasts, weekend adventurers, couples seeking an intimate night out
Hours note: Open Wednesday through Sunday, evenings only; always check online for the latest updates
The real draw for many, however, is the bar’s focus on natural wines. Here, glasses are filled with selections that boast minimal intervention—often sustainable, unfiltered, and without added sulfites. Co-owners Maxwell Botwick and Jessie Harris, who took over the bar in 2020, have maintained this dedication to natural wines while also expanding the bar's culinary offerings. The menu, known for its eclectic small plates, resonates with the local ethos. Featuring highlights like trout roe nachos and seasonal specials prepared with locally sourced ingredients, the menu mirrors the bar's dedication to authenticity and quality.
What makes Brunette particularly special is its ability to balance its wine offerings with an inviting, purposeful atmosphere. The interior is not just a backdrop, but a part of the experience, adorned with fresh flowers courtesy of local florist Hops Petunia and vintage tableware that tells its own stories. Regulars and newcomers alike enjoy the creative blend of wine and space, where each visit feels tailored and thoughtful, right down to the wine list written in a newspaper-style format with creative descriptions that often include song lyrics or weather-inspired wine picks.
Brunette remains a cornerstone of the Kingston community, known for its genuine hospitality that reflects both the personal histories of its owners and the collaborative spirit they champion. Partnering with local artisans and producers enriches the menu and supports the local economy, making Brunette not just a place to drink, but a place where community and creativity meet.
Parking: Street parking is readily available in the Rondout area
Vibe: Casual elegance with a touch of the vintage, set in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere
What to try: Trout roe nachos and any rotating natural wine special
Who it's for: Wine enthusiasts, weekend adventurers, couples seeking an intimate night out
Hours note: Open Wednesday through Sunday, evenings only; always check online for the latest updates
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