Kirkland’s wine merchant, The Grape Choice, is located near the waterfront in downtown and offers both wine connoisseurs and virgins alike a pleasant experience. Drawn to the venue’s outdoor seating and friendly atmosphere, and the fact that dogs are welcome, I always find myself wanting to stick around for hours. 

We’ve stopped by last minute to select wine for dinner, and have lost track of time while wandering in and out of the aisles, which are decorated with wines from all over the world. One Sunday afternoon last spring, we enjoyed a bottle of Sinister Hand on the patio with some friends and Harry (our little white shaggy dog) in tow.

Focused on being “more than just a wine store,” owners Penny Sweet and Larry Springer, longtime residents of Kirkland, pride themselves on a reputation for good service and knowledge stemming from serving the Eastside for over 20 years.  Their no-nonsense approach to the world of wine makes for an approachable and interested staff.  If you’re in need of a recommendation or education on wine itself, TGC is the spot.

They also offer drop-in tastings on Wednesday and by-reservation tastings on Saturday.  For folks with little room to expand their personal cellar, TGC offers climate controlled wine storage open to the public.  

The Grape Choice

7 Lake Shore Plaza

Kirkland, WA 98033

Phone: (425) 827-7551