Small Wine Shop Brings Wine Lovers Together with Loire Valley Tasting
By Tatiana Cordova
On Wednesday, Oct. 16, Small Wine Shop hosted a Loire Valley wine tasting in Fort Lauderdale, inviting both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to explore the flavors of the region.
Owners Tim Graham and Tracy Pell guided guests through four organic and biodynamic wines while sharing the stories behind each bottle. The welcoming atmosphere allowed attendees to ask questions, learn about wine tasting techniques, and expand their wine knowledge.
A Curated Wine Experience
Throughout the evening, Graham guided guests through each wine selection, starting with a brief introduction to wine tasting techniques.
“I want people to feel confident about picking out wines and making choices,” Graham said.
The tasting included:
- Claude Branger Muscadet Terroir Les Gras Moutons: A unique, crisp white that captures citrus and apple flavors.
- Matthias & Émile Roblin Sancerre Origine: A Sauvignon Blanc known for its mineral notes and bright acidity.
- Domaine de Reuilly Pinot Noir: A light-bodied red with cherry and orange flavors.
- Éric Chevalier Cardinal Cabernet Franc: A lightly tannic red that highlights a unique peppercorn note.
As Graham described each wine, he provided in-depth history and background on the regions where the grapes were grown, discussing how climate, soil, and environmental factors shaped each wine's flavor.
What made the evening particularly unique was the interactive atmosphere. As Graham described the wines, he opened the conversation to the audience, encouraging questions and discussion.
This open structure created a relaxed, non-pretentious environment, making everyone feel comfortable and engaged, regardless of their level of wine knowledge.
A Welcoming Community of Wine Lovers
One attendee, Carol Miller, has been coming to Small Wine Shop for about three months after discovering it during a one-off event.
“I’m the only one in my friend group who’s really into wine, so it’s been great to find a place like this,” she said.
Miller attends the tastings regularly, and her goal is to explore her taste in wine, as she has felt limited in the wines she enjoyed.
“The community Tim and Tracy have created is amazing. It’s friendly, inviting, and I’ve met a lot of great people here.”
Creating a Unique Wine Experience
Small Wine Shop focuses on natural and biodynamic wines. The Loire Valley tasting is just one of many events Graham and Pell host, each designed to introduce attendees to new wines and deepen their understanding of the winemaking process.
“When I pick wines for any type of event, there’s usually something that is familiar and then something that’s going to break you out,” Graham said.
By blending education with a relaxed, interactive environment, Small Wine Shop continues to stand out as a unique place for both novice and seasoned wine drinkers.
Looking Ahead
Small Wine Shop is preparing for a Coastal Spain – Andalucía & Valencia wine tasting later this month. Additionally, they are launching a new “Fundamentals of Wine: Learning to Taste” class this month, designed as part of a series to educate attendees on the basics of wine.
To join the upcoming events, click here to sign up.
