When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Winestyr
Why Winestyr is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Winestyr is a unique and premium wine marketplace that directly connects consumers with America's finest artisanal wineries. Founded to break away from the traditional mass-produced wine market dominated by a few large producers, Winestyr offers customers access to hard-to-find, small-production wines that are otherwise unavailable on conventional store shelves. With a carefully curated selection of over 125 wineries, customers can join their acclaimed wine clubs, purchase premium wine gifts, or shop on a dynamic wine marketplace platform. The wine club offers flexible options to receive reds, whites, or mixed selections with various frequency and quantity choices tailored to individual preferences. Winestyr prides itself on supporting independent winemakers by eliminating traditional middlemen, letting customers enjoy authentic wine stories and craftsmanship with every purchase. Their service also includes member benefits such as free shipping, exclusive pricing, and special offers, making it an excellent venue for wine enthusiasts looking to explore and share artisanal wines. The company's headquarters in Illinois embodies a passion for real wineries, making Winestyr a great place to meet up with friends virtually over outstanding wines and discover hidden gems from American vineyards.
Here's what people think of Winestyr
As of recent, Winestyr holds a 4.3-star rating based on 42 reviews.
Users generally praise Winestyr for its commitment to offering unique, high-quality wines that are not found in conventional retail stores. Positive reviews frequently highlight the convenience of the direct-to-consumer model that supports small producers, the wide range of carefully curated selections, and the excellent customer service that accompanies each purchase. Many customers appreciate the engaging stories and authenticity behind the wines and value the club's flexibility in selecting wine preferences. On the other hand, some less favorable reviews note occasional delays in delivery and express a desire for more detailed tasting notes or information on certain wines. A few users also mention the premium price point, which might not be suitable for all budgets. Overall, most reviewers conclude that Winestyr offers a remarkable experience for those who seek artisanal, hand-crafted wines and enjoy supporting independent American wineries. The balance of quality, discovery, and customer engagement makes it a highly recommended wine club despite minor drawbacks.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sarah Albrecht
My husband and I have loved Winestyr and had a membership for about 10 years. In the past 18 months, the follow through on shipments is inconsistent. A year ago, if a shipment was missed, customer service was prompt and the matter was rectified with a double shipment the following month. Over the past 8 to 9 weeks, i have called and emailed winestyr because 2 shipments were missed. Emails have gone unanswered. I did receive a return phone call once when I was not available to answer, and i have called a half dozen times since then but cannot get someone to return my call. There is no option to stay on the line to speak with a representative; you have to leave a message. I don't like to get business' customer service attention through reviews like this, but I am hoping someone from customer service will see this review and contact me. I am saddened that such an awesome company has had this type of trouble with its shipments and customer service. I am assuming a contract or operating model changed, because the disappointing experience I am having now is not representative of my 10 year experience.
Matt Peppes
My girlfriend saw something about Winestyr from a local blogger so we decided to give it a try the next time we were in Chicago. We’re big wine people so after researching a little more about the company we booked a tasting appointment this past week during our visit. We were one of the first appointments that afternoon so it was just us and the two employees. We received a very warm greeting and after a brief explanation of how the tasting would proceed we were swirling our first of 5 wines. The atmosphere of the space was really cool and had a great vibe. Before each wine we tried, the staff would sit down and tell all the details about the wine. This was really neat and it was cool to hear some of the stories behind the wineries they work with. Most of them are small producers so the stories were great. Their wine membership is great and offers multiple options that fits everyone’s budget. We opted for the quarterly wine shipment of all red wines. We love in Kansas so it was awesome that most of the wineries they work with ship to us! We actually ended up adding a few extra bottles from their website onto our first club shipment. The whole order shipped a few days after our tasting so we can wait to start sipping.
John Cordell
I was recently gifted a Winestyr wine subscription. There were some issues with FedEx delivering the wine and the first shipment of wine wasn’t our fav. I worked with Whitney, one of the Winestyr execs, and she resolved all of the delivery issues and she did not disappoint with the follow on shipments of red wine that she personally selected for us! They were fantastic! See the attached pic of the wines that we fell in love with. Looking forward to trying out some of their other wines soon. 👌🏻😎 Thank you so much Whitney & Winestyr! 🍷🍷🍷
Emily Reeder
This place used to be great. However my last several orders have either taken weeks to ship, have not shipped, or have been marked as shipped/completed and have never arrived. I have sent over 10 forms of communication over the last few months via the messages on their site, email and leaving voicemails and have not had a single message returned. I have canceled my membership and will be doing chargeback requests through my credit card for the last several orders that never arrived. Very disappointed as I used to love this place and loved having access to small and unique wineries, but it's not worth the headache of wondering if my orders will ever show up and not being able to get ahold of anyone. I don't leave negative reviews but I'm writing this review as a last ditch attempt in hopes someone will actually get back to me about.
Benjamin R.
What a wonderful experience! We had an absolute blast at our tasting experience and were super excited to check out their subscription service! The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. We learned a lot, ate some great cheese and, most importantly, drank some amazing wine! If you're able to sign up for a time slot that works for you and a great I HIGHLY recommend doing this!
How to reach Winestyr
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Why Winestyr may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Winestyr with your friends?
Gathering with friends for a memorable experience is all about atmosphere, quality offerings, and meaningful connections — and Winestyr delivers on all fronts. This Chicago-based wine lounge and club offers an inviting, elegant space with a warm, light-filled ambiance and original brick walls, creating the perfect backdrop for a casual yet refined meet-up. Imagine stepping into a spacious, inviting lounge where every corner whispers comfort and sophistication, encouraging lively conversations and shared moments of joy. Beyond just a venue, Winestyr is also a gateway to discovering authentic, small-production wines from over 125 independent U.S. wineries — a treasure trove for wine lovers and novices alike. Sharing a bottle here becomes more than drinking; it is an exploration of unique flavors and artisanal craftsmanship that supports real, passionate producers. Whether you and your friends are seasoned wine enthusiasts or curious beginners, Winestyr’s knowledgeable consultative approach ensures everyone finds something delightful. The lounge is exclusively for wine club members and their guests, fostering a sense of community and exclusivity that adds to the special occasion feel. This combination of atmosphere, authenticity, and community makes Winestyr an outstanding choice to rally your friends and elevate your social gatherings.
What activities can you enjoy together at Winestyr?
Winestyr is much more than a wine club—it’s a dynamic destination for immersive wine experiences that cater perfectly to groups. Although the physical lounge is exclusive to wine club members and their guests, it offers an intimate setting for tastings, educational sessions, and personalized consultations with wine experts who bring stories to each bottle. This shared learning experience makes it an excellent venue for groups wanting to deepen their appreciation of wine in an engaging way. Members can explore a rotating selection of wines sourced directly from small, artisanal wineries across the United States, fostering discovery and conversation. Winestyr’s interactive website features a fun quiz to help you find your personal wine style, which can become a group activity in itself—a great icebreaker that gets everyone talking and laughing. Plus, the wine club offers flexible memberships with different themes such as Mixed, All Reds, All Whites, or Collectors editions, catering to diverse palates in your group. The ability to try highly rated wines that would otherwise be hard to find enhances the bonding experience. Groups can also enjoy the aesthetic pleasure of the elegant bar and comfy seating, making it an ideal spot to linger over conversation long into the evening.
Why is Winestyr perfect for group meetups?
Winestyr’s design and philosophy are tailored to foster connection, making it perfect for groups. The ambiance is stylish yet relaxed, featuring an airy, light-filled space with a stunning bar and original brick walls, creating an inviting atmosphere for intimate or lively gatherings. This setting encourages groups to unwind and savor both the wines and each other’s company. Because the lounge is open only to members and their guests, it ensures a more private and focused environment without the distractions of a typical crowded bar or restaurant. The diversity of wine options means everyone in your group, regardless of their wine knowledge or preference, can find something enjoyable. Moreover, the wines are thoughtfully curated and represent true artisan craftsmanship, giving your meetup an elevated and unique touch. The knowledgeable staff, including wine consultants, offers personalized recommendations and stories behind each wine, enhancing the shared experience and making your group feel special. Additionally, Winestyr’s flexible membership and shipping options extend the experience beyond the lounge, allowing groups to continue discovering and enjoying wines together from the comfort of home.
How does Winestyr’s wine selection enhance the meetup?
Winestyr stands out for its dedication to curating wines from independent, artisanal wineries, bypassing the mass-produced brands that dominate the market. This approach provides a unique opportunity for groups to taste exceptional wines that are often rare and unavailable in typical stores. Members receive shipments featuring wines worth more than the price paid, offering incredible value and quality. These selections often include refined, flavorful reds from prized California AVAs, crisp and vibrant whites, and exclusive collector’s editions for those looking to indulge in something truly special. Sharing such thoughtfully chosen wines can turn a regular night out into a memorable journey of flavor, sparking conversations about terroir, winemaking techniques, and tasting notes among friends. The carefully packaged shipments also make great gifts or conversation starters when hosting. For groups new to wine, Winestyr’s sommeliers provide expert guidance capable of transforming novices into enthusiasts during tastings or consultations at the lounge. This combination of quality, education, and discovery makes Winestyr a dynamic hub for any wine-focused gathering.
What makes the community and customer experience at Winestyr unique?
Winestyr’s emphasis on community and customer experience sets it apart as an ideal group destination. With an active membership model, those who join become part of a passionate wine-loving community that values authentic connections over mass marketing. The lounge experience is enhanced by a team that is not only knowledgeable but also genuinely enthusiastic about sharing and teaching about wines. Reviews highlight their attentive, personalized service that ensures everyone from first-timers to seasoned collectors feels welcomed and valued. The exclusive access to the lounge for members and their guests builds a sense of belonging and makes every visit feel like a special occasion. Additionally, Winestyr’s online platform extends this community vibe by providing members with specials, member pricing, and easy reorders with free shipping—perfect for planning future group gatherings or gifting. The connection between Winestyr and over 125 smaller wineries nationwide also imbues every interaction with a purpose, as customers know their support helps sustain passionate artisans and small businesses, enhancing the shared meaning behind every glass raised with friends.
How do flexible membership options accommodate diverse group preferences?
Winestyr understands that not all wine lovers are the same, offering a range of membership plans and wine selections that can accommodate any group’s tastes and preferences. You can choose from monthly, bi-monthly, or quarterly shipments, allowing groups to adjust based on how often they want to receive new tastes to share. The club options include Mixed Packs, All Reds, All Whites, and a premium Collectors edition featuring rare, highly rated wines for gatherings where you want to impress. This flexibility means you can tailor the experience to your group’s mood—whether a casual casual wine night or a sophisticated tasting event. Larger groups can also order more bottles per shipment, reducing the per-bottle cost and ensuring plenty to go around. This adaptability in both frequency and selection offers convenience and variety, making club membership an excellent foundation for regular meetups or special occasions. It also allows groups to explore new wine cultures and styles without the commitment of a steep investment or extensive knowledge.
What extra benefits enhance your group’s experience at Winestyr?
Joining Winestyr comes with additional perks that enhance group experiences beyond just the wine. Members receive free shipping on all orders, making it easy and affordable to replenish favorites or try new bottles together. The beautifully designed packaging and presentation elevate the unboxing moment, turning it into a social event in itself. Special offers and member-only pricing provide great value that can make group events more affordable and enjoyable. The personalized customer service ensures any questions or special requests are handled promptly, removing stress when planning group gift exchanges or coordinated tastings. Winestyr also occasionally offers exclusive events or promotions for members, which can serve as perfect opportunities for groups to socialize and network with like-minded wine lovers. All of these thoughtful extras underscore Winestyr’s commitment to creating rewarding, hassle-free experiences for groups who want to make the most of their time together.
Winestyr is truly a standout destination for anyone looking to rally friends or family for a wine-centered meetup. Its combination of an elegant, inviting atmosphere, elite but accessible wine selections from artisanal producers, expert guidance, and a strong community focus creates a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you want to deepen your wine knowledge, discover new favorites, or simply enjoy great company in a beautiful space, Winestyr offers all the ingredients for memorable gatherings. Its flexible membership plans and extra perks make it easy to tailor the experience to your group’s unique tastes and schedule, ensuring every visit brings something special to the table. Rallying at Winestyr means sharing more than just wine—it means celebrating craftsmanship, connection, and culture together.