Located in Lemon Bay Plaza, the wine bar offers 25 wines by the glass and over 300 bottles available for retail purchase, allowing guests to enjoy selections on-site or take home their favorites. Besides wine, Rumours serves light fare and hosts regular tastings, live music, and special events designed to bring people together.
Dana and Jerry Kuhn founded the business in 2019 and opened in 2020 as a retail wine store just before the COVID-19 pandemic. Later that year, it transitioned into a full wine bar, a move that helped establish its identity as a gathering place and contributed to its continued growth and recognition.
Ownership transitioned in December 2024 to Lee Ann and Patrick Gunning, who have continued building on that foundation while expanding the bar’s offerings. Patrick Gunning brings decades of experience in the construction industry along with a lifelong passion for cooking and wine. After attending culinary school, he now shares his expertise through curated selections and house-made dishes, including his signature Italian meatballs.
Lee Ann Gunning, who has over 20 years of experience in workforce development administration, focuses on organization, marketing, and event planning. She has helped broaden the bar’s programming, from wine tastings led by distributors to private events, catering services, and themed gatherings.
“It truly is a place where you’re going to meet your new friends,” she said, describing the bar’s relaxed, lounge-style environment.
Rumours hosts live music on weekends and a monthly book club, typically held on the third Wednesday, creating opportunities for both social and intimate experiences. Wine education remains a key component, with tastings that allow guests to sample curated selections paired with light bites while learning about each offering. They price the tastings at around $25 per person.
The business also offers a wine club that introduces members to new selections while providing exclusive benefits and savings. In addition, Rumours continues to expand its reach through private bookings, including in-home wine pairing dinners, weddings and celebrations. To encourage summer events, the venue is waiving room rental fees from May through September.
Community involvement is another priority. Rumours regularly partners with local organizations and hosts fundraisers, including an upcoming event with Ears on April 18, where a portion of sales will benefit this area nonprofit.
With its combination of wine, food, and community-focused programming, Rumours Wine Bar has established itself as more than a place to enjoy a drink, offering a space where guests can connect, learn, and return time and again.
Rumours Wine Bar is located at 1807 Englewood Road. You can reach them at 941.473.9463 or at rumourswine.com.
