LOCAL BUSINESSES

Davidson’s newest downtown enterprise, The Davidson Wine Company, invites the public to its grand opening this Friday, August 2, from 6-10 p.m. at its store front at 121 Depot Street. Owner Lindsey Williams said the business will introduce itself to the community with wine tastings, live music, and giveaways.

Williams said the opening is a long-held dream for her that was a long time coming. She was raised in Dublin, Ohio, and earned undergraduate and law degrees from Ohio State University. She said the most socially adult beverage of choice was wine, and Williams came to appreciate the product (especially a dry rose!) and the environment in which it was served.

Williams and her husband lived in Philadelphia for five years, then ended up in this area in 2011 through job transfers. Williams was meticulous in her home search and checked out 11 neighborhoods before settling in Summer’s Walk. The charm of Downtown Davidson was a strong determinate in her choice. She said, “Honestly, we just drove into town and fell in love with it. I knew it was where we wanted to live.”

Williams always knew she wanted to own her own business, and a trip to Italy with a friend further piqued her appreciation for wine and wine making. She began searching all over North Mecklenburg for the right site and considers herself lucky to have found the pair of side-by-side office fronts on Delburg Street in the heart of downtown. “I long believed a wine bar could be successful here,” she said. “I’m grateful because I know a lot of people wanted this space. It’s the perfect location and a great opportunity for me.”

In an environment where shoppers can purchase wine virtually everywhere, Williams said Davidson Wine Company will succeed through its unique offerings and personal service. For starters, the business will purchase grapes and process them in a facility in Cornelius, producing wine that is “globally sourced and locally made.” They will carry a wide variety of bottled wines from around the world for those who want to buy a bottle to go. Customers will also be able to print their own labels on bottles they purchase. The shop will employ a chef and sell small plates of food. Williams also intends to establish a wine club for those who want to learn about wines and receive discounts on wine they purchase. Finally, customers can enjoy a glass at the bar, or at a half-dozen picnic tables under a covered patio. The facility is capable of seating up to 70 patrons.

Davidson Wine Company will be open Tuesday and Wednesday from noon-7 p.m., Thursday, Friday and Saturday from noon-10 p.m., and Sunday noon-5 p.m. It will be closed on Mondays.