On a dreary Tuesday night, we found ourselves in downtown historic Woodstock, ready to kick off the holiday season with a date night made for wine lovers. On first approach, the building housing the recently debuted Rootstock and Vine—located at Main Street and Towne Lake Parkway, a corner that housed the Woodstock Post office in the early 1900s—made me regret visiting the district’s only wine bar on such a foul and drizzly evening. Why? Because the two-story space boasts an enviable rooftop patio—Vinters Rooftop—offerings 360-degree views of downtown Woodstock and, I imagine, striking sunsets when the weather is less offensive.
Credit: Jessie Dowd
Credit: Jessie Dowd
While we wouldn’t be partaking in any rooftop drinks on this particular night, the tall windows of the main-level offered an enticing glimpse of the inviting dining room and bar that still beckoned us inside. Rustic exposed brick walls, industrial décor and warm lighting create a cozy atmosphere that welcomes you the moment you step inside, while personable wait staff and a knowledgeable wine director/sommelier make you feel you’re dining among friends.
Credit: Jessie Dowd
Credit: Jessie Dowd
Rootstock and Vine offers a full bar with a focus on wine from family-owned, mostly organic vineyards. When challenged with finding a red that wouldn’t trigger migraines for my dining mate, the wine director graciously accepted the task and offered two varietals for our “science experiment,” relishing the chance to put his expertise to work and test out his theory (and he was correct!). An expansive wine list spans numerous regions across the globe and is available by the glass and bottle—you can peruse the options via iPad, searching by type of wine, region, blend and more. Not sure what to get? The sommelier (and your server) is eager to hear what you like and offer a taste of one they think might suit your palate or current mood. Since we were visiting on a Tuesday, we were pleasantly surprised with half-price on select bottles of wine, an ongoing special at Rootstock and Vine. Bonus: if you don’t finish your bottle, the restaurant will package it up for you to-go.
Credit: Jessie Dowd
Credit: Jessie Dowd
If you work up an appetite sipping vino, the kitchen serves up charcuterie boards, hot and cold tapas, salads, soup, dessert and more. Nibble on some of the pimento cheese dip served with crispy crackers for spreading to start things off, then order a round of tapas to share if you’re craving more of a dinner experience (the hanger steak comes with a sizeable portion and an herbaceous chimichurri sauce if you’re extra-hungry). Cap your night off with a slice of decadent salted caramel cheesecake. Date night complete. (Although, I’m still dreaming of that rooftop…)
8558 Main St., Woodstock, 770-544-9009, rootstockandvine.com
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