Last week marked the debut of Perrine’s Wine Shop, the Westside boutique wine shop created and owned by the dynamic Perrine Prieur.
The native of Burgundy, France said that she opened her eponymous shop because she was inspired by her family heritage and passion for wine and wanted to introduce the city to a collection of innovative and value wines from smaller appellations and wine growers across the globe.
The store, located in the red hot White Provision development, features more than 300 wine labels, all hand-selected and tasted by Prieur, a certified sommelier who helmed Joël’s wine program for four years.
What prompted you to open your own business and why did you choose to locate it in Atlanta?
PP: After working at Joël, I developed a good [following] with the customers. I fell in love with the White Provisions space and it seemed natural to build on the relationships I had already made in the city. The diverse offerings of food, art and clothing in Atlanta made it very easy to assimilate into the area.
Who do you anticipate your being your primary customer—local wine lovers or an out of town clientele you attracted during your time at Joël?
PP: I think the intown clients will be the majority of my business. Everyone seems interested in [the Westside] and the vast variety of shops matches well with the clientele who buys wine. I will have some out of town customers—people who are wine enthusiasts that travel to have access to hard-to-find vintages.
Since you are offering other items besides wine—cheeses, chocolates, and coffees,—who are some of your suppliers?
PP: Ahh, that is our secret sauce! We take so much careful time in picking what goes into the store that I cannot tell you. Just come see the difference for yourself!
You will also be partnering with some local restaurants: can you share names?
PP: There is confidentiality with my suppliers: However, I will have some exciting news to share very soon!
NEWS AND NOTES:
The 2010 Midtown Restaurant Week is currently running through Sunday, September 12.
According to Eater, Richard Blais is rumored to be one of the contestants on Bravo’s newest Top Chef spin off: Top Chef All Stars.
Karen Bremer, former President of Peasant Restaurants, has been selected to serve as Executive Director of the Georgia Restaurant Association.
Atlanta restaurant star architect firm The Johnson Studio has been selected to design Restaurant Revolution, a New Orleans joint venture between Rick Tramato of Chicago’s Tru (among other restaurants) and Louisiana legend John Folse, opening in the French Quarter Royal Sonesta Hotel next year.
OpenTable’s new group buying discount program, Spotlight, has expanded into Atlanta with some of the online restaurant reservation provider’s top restaurant partners.
Buckhead. The Atlanta Business Chronicle is reporting that the Ruby Tuesday at 3345 Lenox Road will be converted into Truffles , an upscale café concept that has been purchased by Ruby Tuesday’s parent company, in 2011.
What Now Atlanta reports that Saskatoon is closing.
Decatur. Cliff Bostock reports on Madras Woodlands, featuring both northern and southern Indian cuisine.
Dunwoody. Tomorrow’s News Today is reporting that locally owned Galla’s Pizza is opening their third store this fall in the Perimeter Point shopping center at 11555 Mount Vernon Highway.
Inman Park. Shaun’s will host a Southern Craft Beer dinner, Wednesday, September 8, featuring a “Southern Feast paired with the South’s finest brews”.
Marietta. What Now Atlanta is reporting that the Marlowe’s Tavern group is opening store number seven late this year at 1311 Johnson Ferry Road in the Merchant’s Walk retail center.
Tucker. ToNeTo reports that The Loop Pizza Grill at Embry Hills has closed.
Question of the Week: What Downtown resto has just added a rooftop cigar bar featuring live music and small plates?
PS. The answer to last week’s QOTW—What upscale barbecue catering service is serving lunch on Fridays out of its new work space?—is Black Tie Barbecue, now serving lunch at 486 Decatur Street.
