A really nice wine bar in downtown Durham to grab a drink before or after a show. The seating can be a little tight if the bar is packed, which it was when we went a couple of Saturdays ago. The bartender gave some really good recommendations regarding wine selections. You can order either by the glass or bottle. Nice spot, check it out. read more

Brunello Wine bar - Birthday week rolls on.... - Wine Bars Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

Brunello Wine Bar is a cool spot. The staff members are knowledgeable and the selection is unique. My husband and I tried a few different pours and enjoyed them all. It is a smaller spot but luckily it was not busy when we visited. If you are in Downtown Durham then check it out. read more

We had good memories of "Bar Brunello" on Main Street before they closed, and were happy to see them open in this location where Jeddah's Tea was. We've been here twice recently, once on a lazy Sunday afternoon and once on a weekday night over the holidays. Both times, we had interesting wines (orange, purple, unfiltered rose, etc.) and nice conversations with the staff. Maggie and Sergio were friendly and conversational, and knowledgeable about their wine offerings. A few parties came and went during our visits, and it looks like some patrons bought bottles as well. There is another wine bar downtown with a more funky, energetic vibe but on these two occasions, we enjoyed the laid back, living-room vibe of Brunello Wine Bar. Yes, we will be back. read more

Brunello Wine bar - Interior - Wine Bars Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

I've walked by this spot a handful of times, and never even realized it was a wine bar or somewhere I should explore! My friend and I wanted to try out a new (to us) spot before a DPAC show and Bar Brunello popped up during our searching! It's small but cozy inside. We sat at the bar (there also a few small tables). While we like wine, we aren't fancy wine drinkers so didn't quite know what to expect or order. My friend asked for recommendations based on the types of wine she usually likes, and I was interested in the Flight of Orange Wines. They described orange wines as having a red wine finish but also related them to saison and sour beers. I'm a fan of those types of beers, so I tried it out. All 3 were good, but the KRS Orange Zilavka (middle wine in my photo) was my favorite. It definitely reminded me of a sour beer, but lighter and smoother. I definitely recommend this spot to anyone looking for a unique place to have a drink in Durham! read more

Brunello Wine bar - Flight of orange wines - Wine Bars Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

I went to Bar Brunello for the first time for my Birthday. I had invited a pretty large group of people (around 15-20) and it was a bit of a smaller, more intimate place to go than a place for very large groups. But that being said the bartender was still really nice about accommodating us! We all got drinks and we got to move tables around to sit together. The bartender even set up the space outside, which was the nicest outdoor space I've seen a bar in Durham have! Besides the rooftop, this outdoor space is pretty large and really really nice/pretty! I'll definitely be back to use the outdoor space! I would recommend going here with a few friends or on a date. It'd be a really nice low-key night spot. The wine was good and so were the flights. They're known for their orange wine, so I ordered the orange wine flight. It tasted ok, very different, but I liked just getting the experience to try orange wine! They also had a really good rose flight! I'd definitely recommend it again! read more

Brunello Wine bar - Orange Wine Flight! - Wine Bars Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

This spot is always a good choice, though some of their recent hires have left something to be desired. For a while you only ever saw Esteban, and every visit was spot on. He's started to hire some staff now, which I'm happy to see, but some have not been great. My last trip in with a friend we found a very unpleasant woman working. My friend ordered a flight of sauv blanc and got no information on the wines. When she asked about them, the response was "It's sauvignon blanc. There's not really much to say." Really? A flight of wines with no story you were trying to convey? I asked for a dry red wine recommendation, and she poured me something, didn't even say what it was, and asked immediately if she could pour me a full glass. Didn't ask if I liked it, nothing. We stayed for the glass and flight and then went elsewhere. Hoping it was an off-night, because this has always been the top wine bar choice in Durham by a fair margin. read more

My husband and I sat at the bar and had a lovely time sipping wines. It was a very quiet night, so our bartender was more than happy to spend time telling us all about what were were drinking. I tried a flight of orange wines, while my husband stuck to the reds he loves. When we go back, we're looking forward to checking out the patio and getting some of the tappas as well! read more

Brunello Wine bar - Flight of orange wines. So delicious - Wine Bars Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

We came here based on the great Yelp reviews and were not disappointed. We were lucky enough to have Esteban bartending that night! The bar itself is so tiny and intimate, but charming. The wine menu is diverse enough that you'll find something you want, but not too large. Don't even know where to start? Ask Esteban! All we did was tell him what we like in our wine (i.e. acidic, mineraly) and he instantly made great recommendations. He offered us samples first as well! We did not try any food here, but loved the ambiance of the place and Esteban's knowledge! read more

This was a great wine bar! It's very small, and is very sparsely decorated, but still has a cozy atmosphere. They have a great selection of wines, and the person who helped us was very knowledgeable. We went as part of a group for a birthday celebration, and were able to fit inside with no issues. That being said, if there was another large group we definitely would not have fit inside (there is also an outdoor seating area) read more

Brunello Wine bar - Bar Brunello menu - Wine Bars Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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If you're looking for a unique and comprehensive selection of wine, then you won't need to go any further than Bar Brunello! It's a small, intimate location tucked away from the traffic of downtown with bottles literally reaching the ceiling! Looking to celebrate someone/something special? There's a wine for that here. On a date? They've got you. Simply want to have some vino after one of *those* days at work? They're here for you. Each time I visit I'm impressed by the choices available at any price point! I like coming here with friends after work, and we're always bound to meet other interesting people. The owner is super knowledgeable and will help you find your perfect glass for whichever occasion you're visiting for! read more

A friend and I stopped in here to have some wine, and let me tell you this place does not disappoint! I had a flight of rose, delicious. My friend had a glass of Pinot. Esteban took care of us. He is very knowledgeable and is so passionate about wine. His passion shows and really makes you appreciate how hard it is to really know your wines! Esteban made us feel like queens. We will definitely be back, hopefully next time for date night . Thank you again! read more

Brunello Wine bar - Wine Bars Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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Come for a journey AND wines from all over the world! Esteban is exceptionally knowledgeable but mostly cares about the guest experience. Come enjoy the ride ! read more

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Had heard good things and decided to try this place out. When you walk in, the atmosphere made it feel like a little wine shop in Italy or Europe in general. It's a small place with tables, bar seating, and a small outdoor patio. We had no issues getting bar seating at about 9pm on Friday. They offer very unique beer and wine, which was awesome! They also do wine flights, specially orange wine flights which I had never had. The bartenders do a great job of explaining wines and offering you tastes to make sure it's what you want. This place is pretty expensive though, so just know that prior to going in. Will definitely revisit this spot! It was so cute! read more

So so happy that this wine bar has joined my downtown Durham life! Dur-yum is how I feel about this place! As someone who loves wine, being in a beer centered area of North Carolina, it can be a lonely life....But Bar Brunello is here to save the day for me! You can tell this place really does love their wine, and they put a lot of time into picking out the wines they have to offer here too. I would suggest going with one of the wine flights, and if you sit at the bar, the owner will happily guide you through all of the types and add in his own personal story or connection to each wine too. It is like you are becoming part of his family just by sitting there and having wine with him. You know that a person loves their job, when it is just you and one other person in the whole bar and he just can't stop talking about wine. It was just such a nice different type of experience for the downtown area. It is small and narrow inside, so a large group might not be the best here, but if you are into wines at all, this is definitely a spot you should go. We also got a small plate with some very tasty cheese and meat to eat between our wine flights, but not enough food options here to really be dinner. But a great spot for nice conversations and nice wine. read more

You will not find this quality of wine at a better price. I have never ordered from the menu; I usually just let Esteban know what mood I'm in. He has more than 20 years of experience and it shows. He always finds something amazing that is exactly right for the occasion. His passion is infectious as he takes you around the regions of the world to explore and expand your wine palate. read more

Brunello Wine bar - Orange wine flight. Delicious!! - Wine Bars Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

Esteban knows his wines and is happy to share his knowledge. A great place to come if you want a glass of wine from places like Georgia (the country), India and Hungary, along with your more expected places of Spain, Italy, Portugal, and, of course, Argentina. read more

Great wine list. My husband and I did a orange wine and rose flight before dinner. The guy behind the bar, Esteban, was very knowledgeable. Really good place to go before or after dinner. read more

This bar is so cute! It's a little bit small and dark, but I love the decoration/bar design with the bottles against the wall all lined up. This is perfect to host an event too and their appetizers are really good quality! Cheese, nuts, meats. Would go back! read more

cozy spot with a great calendar of wine tasting classes. delicious and unique flavors with great ambiance.

I had a really enjoyable first experience here. It seemed like a slower night butter there was so much energy and passion that seemed to enhance every Wine glass I had.the owner knows his stuff and is so incredibly welcoming that it is hard not ask for another glass. I am more of a beer drinker but like the occasional wine. Wine tends to overwhelm me and make me feel inferior due to my lack of knowledge. This place is great at appealing to the wine beginners as well as the wine experts. I love how accommodating and low key this place felt. Durham is in need of a go-to wine bar and this is it by a landslide. I hope Bar Brunello plans to stick around! read more

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Wow! Who would have thought that the most interesting guy (& wine collection) in NC would be in the most unassuming "storefront" bar in downtown Durham? Esteban certainly knows his wine and has curated an amazing collection to offer. Couple that with his engaging personality that makes even a novice wine drinker feel at home and you have a winning combination for a night out. But don't go if you are looking for run of the mill, "in every restaurant" kinds of wines, because you can't find them here. The night we visited we had a flight of orange wine that came complete with Esteban's encyclopedic knowledge of the grapes, the process, the country & the winemaker. Such a great experience - if you enjoy wine, THIS is the bar for you! read more

Brunello Wine bar - Orange wine flight! - Wine Bars Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

I love Bar Brunello! Its a cozy little wine bar, perfect for grabbing a drink with friends and catching up. There's a little outdoor area in the back which is super cute and reminds me of a cool hidden spot that you'd find in your favorite big city. Esteban is a super nice guy who is also really knowledgeable about wines. If you don't see your favorite wine on the list don't despair, Esteban will help you find something you like. Definitely check out Bar Brunello. You will love it too! read more

I love going to this place to get a glass of wine. The owner Esteban is awesome to chat with and he has more knowledge of wine than any other owner/bartender I've come across in Durham. Durham sorely needed a place like this. A chill atmosphere with a touch of class and killer wine. My go-to spot for wine in the city. read more

This is the best wine bar in the Triangle. The moment you step in you feel at home and the owner (Esteban) always goes out of his way to welcome you. The selection of wines is fantastic and it has a very relaxed feel. Whether you are just hanging out in Durham or on your way to a show at DPAC, this is the perfect place for a glass of wine as a couple or with a group of friends. Highly recommended! read more

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It's hard to open a competitive bar in this part of town where sofisticate, edgy, trendy establishments abound. The key to this place seems to be simplicity and quality. The decor is very simple: all white walls, simple square tables and metal chairs. Nothing that makes you say "I want that in my living room or in my kitchen". Nope. The focus of Brunello is on its wines and food. The selection for both is not overwhelming and everything you find has been carefully selected to impress you. The owner is an experienced sommelier and a foodie who genuinely likes to share his passion for quality products. I spent a few hours there with my spouse on Friday and had a really memorable "date night". Spent more on babysitter than at the bar. read more

This is our favorite bar in downtown Durham right now. The owner is so knowledgable and friendly and it's a very warm atmosphere. The selection of wines is great and he can tell you all about where they came from and how they were made. The orange wines are so interesting and a great addition to downtown! read more

This place is awesome!! They have a really unique selection of wine. Having a glass of wine here is like going on an adventure. I've been a couple of times and have really enjoyed it. I think this is a great addition to downtown Durham!! read more

I stopped in Bar Brunello while out in downtown Durham with a good friend. We don't spend much time in this area but we happened to walk past the entrance which looked intriguing. We ended up staying for a few drinks as we really enjoyed our wine and talking with the owner. He taught us about a few of his favorite wines on the menu, and the ones we chose were delightful (our favorites were the sparkling wine mix and the Argentinian Malbec). The bar is very new/clean but also has an inviting atmosphere as everyone in there was extremely friendly. We already have plans to return this weekend and I highly recommend Bar Brunello to anyone looking for an unpretentious bar with an excellent wine selection. read more

Fantastic wine selection, unique and inviting atmosphere, and best of all, Esteban's best-in-class service, knowledge, and attention to detail. Not to be missed! read more

Love this place, it's atmosphere, small plates, and how the owner always seems to predict exactly what kind of wine we want using only our vague descriptions. Try the Dolcetto D'alba Castello Di Verduno along with the Burrata and Prosciutto plate-a combo fit for kings! read more

Bar Brunello is a great addition to downtown Durham. I recently visited the space for a quick drink and snack with a friend. The interior is simple, clean and appealing. The owner Esteban was extremely friendly and knowledgable. My friend had a glass of wine and I had a flight of the 3 orange wines- unique and interesting. We also had an order of the prosciutto and burrata and the olives. They were delicious and a perfect complement to the wine. The glassware was perfect and the service was extremely well delivered. I will definitely be back. read more

Brunello Wine bar - Perfect place for wine and snacks! - Wine Bars Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

My wife and I stopped in here only by chance and what good luck that was for us! The owner truly cares about his customers and sharing his knowledge and love of wine. He not only served us great wine but recommended new varieties that we enjoyed and would not have otherwise found. We are looking forward to his classes/tasting events as well as many more fun evenings! read more

This place just became my favorite wine bar in the triangle. Esteban the owner brings a tremendous amount of knowledge and passion to the table. There were some unique collections of wine, for example, I've never had orange wines before, and the stories the wine themselves possess were fascinating. Come here and find yourself transported to Europe. read more

MJ is the best bartender at this bar! She knows wine VERY well and has a great attitude. We love this spot. It is perfect, the personnel and wine are just incredible. Love everything about this place- definitely the best and most unique spot in Durham. read more

Came here visiting from LA and stopped by this spot going to the record store next door. We met the owner, cook, bartender, sommelier... or better known as Esteban. He was very friendly and we had a great conversation about the different wines he had at his place. He was very passionate and basically obsessed with wine so he ended up pouring us a flight of orange wines on the house. Paired very well with our chicken liver mousse and burrata and procuttio. Definitely check it out, cool spot. read more

Nice spot, quaint and sincere. The wine is wonderful with many types you won't see on most restaurants. Great spot for a tapa and a glass of vino. read more

This is the best wine bar in Durham hands down, the owner operator has an incredible selection hard to find wines with an encyclopedic knowledge of all the varietals. Perfect for a date, drink after work, or sharing a great bottle or two between friends. You'll definitely make some memories while sharing your old ones. read more

Stopped by here the other day. The owner, Esteban, has a good selection of wines and is eager to help your selection. His wines are good and affordable. He is eager to explain that he's not one of those wine bars that look to gouge with absurd mark ups. This is a quality addition to the Durham downtown. read more

The best - wine selection is broad, great, and service is as good as it gets. What more can you ask for; seriously.

Orange wines, sparkling reds and the most interesting and knowledgeable owner I have met in a long time. So genuine and engaging he has offered untold amounts of information on wines, the region they come from and the best cheese and nut pairings. We ordered a cider that was something we tried without asking for a sample. For my pallet it was less than pleasing. Esteban laughed, removed the item from our bill and our table. Not sure about a wine, just ask and he will inform and often provide a sample before ordering. Great times can be had in this elegantly diminutive wine bar. read more