Food+Drink

Sippin' Spot

new Eau Claire wine bar From the Vine Wine Room

Allison Schrader, photos by Andrea Paulseth |

It’s one of those days. Big Boss Man has graciously overloaded you with busy work, you answered 47 emails before lunch, and you hit every red light on the way home. Now all you dream about is sipping on a soothing, flavorful cabernet, left to listen to your own thoughts. But where to go? Sometimes a box of Franzia just ain’t gonna to cut it. Those of you saddened by the absence of a fabulous wine bar in Eau Claire, have no fear: From the Vine Wine Room is here.

From the Vine Wine Room may be a tongue twister, but it will leave your taste buds dancing. Owner Kathy Nuenke was excited about its premiere on July 15. “So many people are interested in wine here, but it’s an interest that’s developed slowly.” She hopes this will ultimately be a great location for the venture.

One of From the Vine’s features that will attract people is the wine list. Its variety and vivid descriptions would make it difficult finding a beverage that doesn’t tickle your fancy. From merlot to malbec, pinot grigio to moscato, this wine bar offers a variety of flavors. “The wines will be unique, wines you won’t find elsewhere in town,” said Kathy.

If the wine list doesn’t impress you, maybe this will: the tastings. At least once a month (on Wednesdays), From the Vine offers exotic wine tastings. What’s better? A relaxing place to unwind, chat with friends, and enjoy free wine? Sign me up.

Overall, Kathy wants the people of the Valley to think of her wine haven as a “relaxing atmosphere where you can sit and visit with friends.” It won’t be a loud bar, full of students playing music you’d rather not hear. A type of place most would contend we already have in abundance. “It’s not a sports bar,” Kathy said.

So the next time you’ve just had one of those days, keep the From the Vine in mind.
“It’s never ending – what you can find in a glass of wine,” Kathy added.

From the Vine Wine Room • 2526 Golf Road • open Wednesdays and Thursdays 1–9pm, Fridays and Saturdays 1pm-midnight, and Sundays 1-5pmwebsite