I got into this business because I love wine. And people. Specifically, I love matching up people I like with wines I like. One of the best ways to do that is to open bottles of wine and let people taste for themselves, because there is no better way to take someone out of their ‘comfort zone’ and get them to try something new.
When I envisioned the store, I thought I’d spend time tasting with suppliers (friends), to find products that I’d then sell to customers (friends). I thought I’d throw fun tastings and parties. And for 11+ years, I did exactly that. What I did not ever want to do: spend every waking moment talking to- or attempting to talk to- town officials. Sadly, that is exactly how I spent the last several months. Thankfully, we’re done with all that.
I am leaving Pour Richard’s in the best of hands. I promise you, you will not be disappointed in this transition. I’m not going to disappear just yet, but we are beginning a (long) countdown. For our last few months, we can go back to the way things are supposed to be: a store full of fun products and fun people. Fun events. Fun tastings. First off, we have Turn the Page: Introducing Corey B, where you can get a glimpse of the future of Pour Richard’s. Then we have an All-Portugal event, with Tony & Augusto. Another ‘Conversations’ tasting, with Brendan Ferguson. And one with Matt Belanger. An Italian thing I’m plotting with George. Maybe a Pennywise, if I can fit it in? And one last blowout anniversary party (12!), scheduled for Saturday, Nov 16.
If my time here were a fireworks show, these next several weeks are the grand finale. Stay tuned; we intend to exit in high style.