Why should going out be limited to draught beers and fussy cocktails? The Hudson Valley is ripe with wine-bar gems, no surprise given its preponderance of vineyards. Below are five of the best you’ll find, whether you’re settling for a pour of red or white from Rockland to Greene.
This relatively recent addition to the Dutchess hotspot’s revamped Main Street has gained tremendous popularity thanks to its seasonally updated bottle selections and fresh homemade foods. Plus, that night’s designated driver can stay cool with a $4 Sound Sparkling White Tea with Peach and Ginger.
This smallish space makes up for lack of elbowroom with live music and DJs on its outdoor patio most weekends, trivia every Monday night, and $5 Mimosas on Sundays, among other crowd-pleasers. Not to mention there’s a nice lineup of craft-beer bottles and cans, in addition to an eclectic tapas menu.
Jacqueline’s Wine on Main, Nanuet
Don’t be afraid to ask for a taste of something if you aren’t sure about which variety to choose. Or be shy about partaking in Jacqueline’s weekly fundraiser events, after which you’ll have earned the right to indulge in their guava-and-cheese empanadas and some spirits from their fully stocked bar.
If you’d rather skip the live entertainment and have a more low-key sip and snack, Ze Windham should sparkle atop your list. A relatively small but carefully curated selection of wines complements a food menu that ranges from can’t-miss charcuterie to rich chocolate mousse. We strongly encourage you to save room for their Cookie of the Day, with a fresh cappuccino on the side.
Per this Columbia County location’s website, its namesake object is defined as “something that consists of two elements or parts.” For Dyad’s purposes, that’s translated as, “The marriage of food and wine.” And it definitely lives up to that declaration, boasting complete lunch and dinner options to consider as you savor a 2013 Ala Nera or crisp Thierry Tissot Chardonnay. Though in a nod to going above and beyond their mission, Dyad also carries a substantial roster of craft beers and ciders. Time to say, “I do.”
