We sat down with Sommeliers/Owners Judy and Paul Rosynek of Crush Wine Bar & Shop in Waukesha, Wisconsin. Crush is all about great wine, great vibes, and great company! Whether you’re looking to find your new favorite wine, enjoy fantastic live music on the weekend, or simply relax with friends (including your four-legged furry companions!), they’ve got you covered. With a vibrant wine club, exciting tasting events, and a passionate team, it’s easy to see why guests keep returning. If you love this spot, be sure to visit their second location in the suburbs!

Tell us about Crush Wine Bar and what makes it special?

From the moment you walk into Crush, you’ll feel right at home. The vibe is easygoing, never stuHy, and our team keeps things light and fun. Head to the bar and you’ll be greeted with a smile and a simple question, “When you drink wine what wine do you typically like?” Not sure? No problem-we love helping guests taste and find new favorites. Not wine? Also, no problem- we’ve got a cocktail menu crafted by our own staH-creative and playful with something for everyone.

How did Crush Wine Bar begin?

It all started 12 years ago with a dream and a glass of wine. I’d been itching to start my own business so I brought my plans to my friend, and Financial Advisor, Paul. I came from the world of hospitality and sales; he knew numbers. Add in our shared love of people, good wine, and a few wine-country trips and the idea for a wine bar just clicked. That was eleven years ago – and now we’re raising that glass to two locations and countless great memories.

What kind of wine do you typically enjoy the most?

Depends on the day. Or the time of day. Or time of year. With over 10,000 grape varietals each has its place with the right company, the right setting, you can always find the right wine.

What’s a good way for someone to start developing their wine palate?

Begin with what you like, of course. Then take it the next step – something a little more dry, more bold, something you’ve never tried before. Use your senses and take your time. You should also make this enjoyable, rather than a chore.

What’s a wine that surprised you recently?

We recently held a wine tasting event with a winemaker from Friuli, Italy, and he totally shook up our palates . Just when you think you’ve tried every varietal out there, he opened bottles of beautiful Italian wines we’ve never heard of-let alone could pronounce! It was a fun reminder that there’s always a new and delicious wine waiting to be discovered.

What are your social media handles so that readers can follow you?

Facebook.com/crushwaukesha
Instagram.com/crushwinebars

What’s one common wine myth you’d love to debunk?

There’s nothing wrong with Merlot! Let it go.

What’s a grape varietal most people overlook but should try?

Grenache or Garanacha. Championed from the Rhone Valley but originally from Spain, it can be fruity and medium-bodied, or bold from old vines. You can find value bottles or high quality from Châteauneuf du Pape. Often found in GSM blends, it’s an easy drinking red.

Tell readers why they should visit your wine bar?

Because we’re all about good wine, good vibes, and good company! Whether you’re here to discover your next favorite glass, catch some fantastic live music on the weekend, or just unwind with friends (four-legged furry friends welcome too!), we’ve got you. Add in our lively wine club, fun tasting events, and a team that loves what they do and you’ll see why people keep coming back. If you love this location, check out our second location in the suburbs.

Advertiser disclosure + editorial note