Who likes to relax with a glass of wine after a long, hard week? I sure do. Ok, well maybe I’m a little more of a beer drinker, but you get the idea. Regardless, deVine Wine and Spirits has a great selection of both, and much more! They were also one of the original stores on 104 street before it became the shopping and cultural hub of downtown that it is today, for which I am truly grateful.
I met with, Chad, one of the 4 partners who own the store and he gave me a bit of background on the store and information on really important topics…like wine, beer, and port. If you’re in the market for a beverage (really, who isnt?) pay them a visit at 10111 – 104 st or visit their website for more info.
What is deVine Wines and Spirits?
It’s a boutique market so we specialize in fine wines, specialty liquors, and a decent selection of craft beers.
How did your business come about? What’s your story?
The 4 partners have all worked in the industry so 6 years ago we thought it would be fun and interesting to pool our talents and resources together and open a boutique shop.
Is there a lot of teamwork?
Yeah, the teamwork is really good. Everyone has a different little niche and it all blends together well. There’s a lot of knowledge among the staff here and because of that we’re able to educate our customers quite a bit.
So what brought you to 104 street?
We knew that there was some revitalization planned for this area about 6 years ago, so we wanted to be a part of that. We also realized that there was nothing like this store in this area so we thought that would be perfect. 104 st, specifically, has revamped completely. 6 years ago it was a totally different atmosphere than it is now.
What would you consider the most unique part of what customers experience when they visit you?
The store takes a lot of pride in the service and information we provide to our customers. We do our best to educate without being pretentious. We understand that everyone tastes wine differently and it’s more about finding what they’re looking for rather than telling them what they should buy.
What kind unique offerings do you have in the beer department?
We’ve got quite a bit of selection. One of the brands that does really well here is the Rogue Brewery, they’re just very versatile and have very rich flavours. We also have quite a few Japanese beers that come directly from Japan, so they are rare and unique. As for local, Alley Kat has done very well. I think the brewery has really perfected the craft now and the past 15 years of experience has definitely created a better product. Dogfishhead is also a great brewery from Michigan and they are known for creating very bitter and dry beers, probably some of the driest you’ll ever taste.
If you could see one thing change in Edmonton, what would it be?
I guess I am seeing the change with what has been happening downtown. We’re becoming more community oriented and less big box and you don’t have to drive as much. I guess I’d just like to see us move a little further towards what we see in Europe. I think people want to feel involved in their community and that’s what we need.
What’s your favourite product you’re selling this holiday season?
I think it would be port. There are different styles of port, but generally it’s sweet and warming and it’s just something that you would sit in front of a fire sipping.
Do you have a holiday tradition that you can’t live without?
Perogies on Christmas Eve…home-made, fresh, baba-made perogies.
Any last words?
I guess just that we here at devines are doing our best to be a community oriented store and care about our customers’ shopping experience.
Thanks for the chat, Chad!
Amanda
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