Manhattan’s Upper East Side is home to a remarkable collection of wine shops, each offering distinct expertise and curated selections for wine enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking Italian treasures, kosher selections, or expert guidance from multi-generational family businesses, these five exceptional shops provide the knowledge, atmosphere, and inventory that make wine shopping an enriching experience.
1. In Vino Veritas
Located at 1375 1st Avenue on the corner of 74th Street, In Vino Veritas is a family affair run by two brothers, Brunno and Gianluca Rottura, who are first-generation Italians. Wine and food run deep in their blood—their father Alberto opened and operated Sistina, one of NYC’s most prestigious Italian restaurants, located at 24 E 81st Street. Is their shop primarily Italian wine? Yes! They have impeccable taste and can help you match a bottle of wine with any Italian dish. Gianluca has even written two books about wine and food, bringing a level of expertise that elevates every recommendation they make.
2. McCabes Wines and Spirits
Situated at 1349 3rd Avenue on the corner of 77th Street, McCabes Wines and Spirits is led by a formidable team: owner Daniel and buyer David, both experts in the industry. Together, they guarantee you’ll find a great bottle of wine. Their kosher selection stands out as one of the best in all of NYC, making this shop an essential destination for those seeking quality kosher wines alongside their broader, carefully curated inventory.
3. Mr. Wright Fine Wines and Spirits
At 1593 3rd Avenue near 89th Street, Mr. Wright Fine Wines and Spirits has been serving the Upper East Side since 1977. With decades of history in the neighborhood, this shop offers an extensive selection of wine and spirits where almost every category is well represented. Whether you’re searching for a specific vintage or exploring new regions, Mr. Wright’s comprehensive inventory and long-standing reputation make it a reliable choice for wine lovers.
4. Vintage Grape
Located at 1479 3rd Avenue on the corner of 83rd Street, Vintage Grape offers something special: an amazing tasting schedule. On any given Friday or Saturday evening, you can stop by to taste a variety of wines and learn from the experts who are pouring them. This interactive approach to wine retail creates a welcoming environment where education and discovery go hand in hand, making it an ideal spot for both curious newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts.
5. K & D Wines and Spirits
At 1343 Madison Avenue on the corner of 94th Street, K & D Wines and Spirits represents true legacy in the wine business. This third-generation family-owned shop started in 1934, and the current owners are the sons of the original partners—they literally grew up working in the shop. Their savvy wine knowledge and decades of experience attract sophisticated and novice customers alike from all over the country. When you want expertise backed by nearly a century of family tradition, K & D delivers.
Each of these Upper East Side wine shops brings something distinctive to the neighborhood. From In Vino Veritas’s Italian specialization and family heritage to McCabes’s exceptional kosher selection, from Mr. Wright’s extensive inventory and long history to Vintage Grape’s educational tastings, and K & D’s remarkable multi-generational expertise—there’s a perfect destination for every wine lover’s preferences and needs.