Kimball’s Artisan Wines describes itself as a “neighborhood bottle shop focusing on sustainably farmed and produced artisan wines,” but it has quickly become one of those unique places that make Jacksonville unlike anywhere else. A focus on community and a heartfelt respect for the craft of winemaking has produced a shop that is exceptional in both its concept and selection.
Owner Josh Kimball hand-picks each bottle of wine that’s sold in his shop, curating a selection that exposes his customers to an array of new flavor profiles. His focus on native fermented yeast derived from the grape’s home vineyard differentiates his shop and provides a unique option for local and visiting wine-lovers. Stocked with Oregon varieties as well as wine from around the world, each bottle highlights a particular growing region, growing season, and vintage.
Kimball says, “Anytime you buy a bottle of wine here, I want it to be worth it. I want it to over-deliver. I’ve actually done the work and sifted through to find that gem that’s $15 that could sell for $30.”
His passion for wine is paired with a thoughtful perspective on the importance of community and the role that small business owners, like himself, can play. He proudly refers to himself as a shopkeeper, feeling that it pays respect to Jacksonville’s heritage.
“It’s no different than someone who had a store here 110 years ago, providing the same thing,” he says. “We’re creating a sense of community, and we care about it, and we’re representing what we want to do for a living.”
Kimball wants customers to feel comfortable and cared for at his shop. His love of the town shines through as much as his love for wine. His appreciation of the craft and intimate knowledge of each bottle of wine in the shop ensures that his patrons will leave with a wine unlike they’d find anywhere else in the Rogue Valley.
Find Kimball’s Artisan Wines at 120 S. 3rd Street and reach Josh at 541-954-4715 or kimballwine@gmail.com. Shop hours are Tuesday-Saturday 11:00am-6:00pm.