Wednesday, June 15, 2011

New Wine Shop Opens in Chamblee

From NeighborNewspaper.com, Nneka M. Okona (nokona@neighbornewspapers.com)

A new nook for vino lovers has opened its doors.  Le Caveau, at 5256 Peachtree Road in Chamblee, opened May 28.  The namesake of the wine shop is French for vault, the essence of what the shop hopes to become: a gold mine of fine wines to add to patrons’ cellars.

“We focus on Old World and natural wines, which translates into an European-dominated shop,” said Daniel Crawford, who handles wine sales and consulting. “Right now we have about 240 bottles and we are growing to have 400.”  Domestic wine selections are also available, along with some South American wines. South African wines will come in soon, Crawford said. Tote bags, decanters, polish cloths, reference books and wine glass charms are also available for purchase.

The business began as a result of a collection co-owner Eric Brown had formed. Brown began to collect wine a decade ago.  Brown and his wife Carrie, approached Crawford in November about starting Le Caveau.  “We have been hanging out and drinking wine together for a long time,” said Crawford. “We always kidded around about opening a restaurant or barbecue joint.”

The Browns reside in Chamblee, so opening there was a no-brainer.  “They live five minutes from the shop,” said Crawford. “That is what the business is about, serving the local economy and building a business within their own neighborhood.”

Bottles at Le Caveau start as low as $9.99.  “Within the world of wine, if you look hard enough, you can find very beautiful wines that are made naturally and are affordable,” said Crawford.

Le Caveau is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Information: (770) 837-0710.