Get to
Know Dave
Dave Meester grew up immersed in the rhythm of a classic 1980s steak and seafood restaurant, located 25 miles north of Whitefish, Montana. It was a true family-run establishment where everyone played a role—whether dicing strawberries, peeling shrimp, or helping with catering events. Summers spent traveling throughout the western United States with his grandparents exposed him to a wide range of cuisines, including Basque, Japanese, and Indian, all of which helped shape his evolving culinary palate.
Dave continued to refine his skills in both the kitchen and the dining room while living in Bozeman, Montana, all while founding and operating a full-time custom furniture business. After successfully selling the business, he turned his focus to building a lodge on the Marias River, west of Big Sandy, Montana. It was there that he met his future wife, Emily, who has deep family roots in the Flathead Valley.
Following their marriage, Dave and Emily purchased the property that is now Woods Bay Wine—just a block from the home where Dave spent his earliest years. Years of travel and shared adventure sparked Dave’s passion for wine, ultimately leading him to earn his Certified Sommelier designation in 2022.
POURED WITH PURPOSE
Nestled in the heart of Bigfork, Montana, our wine bar, bottle shop, and restaurant offers an exceptional experience for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
We proudly feature a curated collection of over 500 premium wines from around the world, thoughtfully selected to suit every palate and occasion.
Whether you're exploring our boutique bottle shop for a special vintage, relaxing at our wine bar with a glass in hand, or savoring a gourmet meal in our inviting dining space, you'll enjoy a warm, sophisticated atmosphere and unparalleled service.
Our passion for fine wine and culinary excellence drives everything we do. Join us in celebrating the art of wine and dining in Bigfork’s go-to destination for exceptional taste and hospitality.
Get to
Know Emily
With more than 20 years in the hospitality industry, I bring a deep passion for wine and guest experience to my work. I hold the Certified Sommelier designation through the Court of Master Sommeliers, a milestone that reflects my commitment to the craft of wine service and education.
Growing up on a fourth-generation wheat farm in Montana instilled in me an early appreciation for agriculture and the connection between land, food, and craftsmanship—values that continue to shape my perspective on wine today.
My first memorable wine experience came while studying opera in Vienna, Austria, when a simple bottle of Grüner Veltliner sparked a lasting curiosity about wine and its cultural significance. That moment led me to explore vineyards and wineries across Europe, South America, and the United States, deepening my appreciation for the stories each bottle carries.
Today, when guiding guests through wine selections and pairings, I draw on those global experiences to share not only the character of the wine, but also its origins, its producers, and its relationship to cuisine and culture—creating thoughtful, memorable wine experiences that reflect the artistry and sense of place behind every bottle.
Your local bottle shop that happens to serve food.