After closing in September, The Wine Merchant has been transformed into The Wine Shop.
Eric Allen and Lesley Ponce co-owned The Wine Merchant and Ponce didn’t believe she could carry on after her business partner retired.
But with a loan from the Region 9 Economic Development District, she was able to open her new endeavor in the same building.
“Region 9 helped me out immensely. ... Without them I would have been dead in the water,” she said.
The Wine Merchant’s inventory was sold before Allen retired, and Ponce closed the shop to paint and reorganize the space.
On Oct. 1, The Wine Shop opened with many of the same staff members and similar selections.
“I am just happy we could retain a local business,” she said.
But a change in state law that took effect July 1 made it possible to widen her selection, and with the help of Seasons of Durango she will sell to-go food, such as baguettes and cheeses.
Over the holidays, she expects to offer gift baskets incorporating food and wine.
Customers also can expect new varieties and for wine tastings on Saturdays to continue.
As for the sign, which still reads The Wine Merchant, it will change as soon as she has approval from the city.
mshinn@durangoherald.com
