1. What inspired you to create Salut!?
After traveling to France off and on for years to help settle my aunt’s estate, I had become quite familiar with the culture. And besides the people and the food, the one thing I found myself looking forward to each visit was a trip to the local wine bar in Périgueux. The atmosphere was like nothing I had ever experienced – so quaint and cozy, time seemed to stand still, hours passing like minutes as I enjoyed my company and a glass or two of vin. Everyone was welcoming and friendly, whether you were new or a regular, foreigner or native, they made you feel at home. You could sit for as long as you liked and no one ever tried to rush you out. By the end of my stay, I knew I wanted to create something like this in my hometown.
2. What do you love about wine?
It’s just so complex. Even if you drink the same vintage, each sip can be a different experience depending on how you are feeling, what you are eating and the atmosphere you are in. The subtleties might be small but wine is always changing, and the best part is you don't need to be an expert to enjoy all it has to offer, you just need to be willing to open up your senses.
3. What makes Salut! different from your average wine bar?
Like that little bar à vin in France, I want Salut! to be part of the community, a place where you can go to have fun, meet people, and maybe learn something new. On top of showcasing local artists, musicians, and performers, I plan on hosting winemakers and brew masters from all over the world, inviting them to come in and share their expertise. If by the end of the night I have helped you to deepen your love and knowledge of wine, then I know I have done my job.