Airing between regular episodes of the VinePair Podcast, “Next Round” explores the ideas and innovations that are helping drinks businesses adapt in a time of unprecedented change. As the coronavirus crisis continues and new challenges arise, VP Pro is in your corner, supporting the drinks community for all the rounds to come. If you have a story or perspective to share, email us at [email protected].
In this “Next Round,” VinePair Podcast host Zach Geballe speaks with Kim Cavoores, longtime sommelier and owner of Greenport, N.Y., wine and spirits boutique One Kourt Studio, about the challenges of opening and operating a wine shop during a pandemic.
Cavoores began her career working in Boston restaurants, where she became fascinated with wine’s variations from glass to glass. She moved to New York and established herself as a sommelier, working with some of the city’s most notable restaurateurs, such as Paul Grieco at Terroir and Hearth, and Danny Meyer at Marta. After leaving NYC to work for Blue Hill at Stone Barns, Cavoores says she was ready to start her own venture.
In late 2019, Cavoores purchased a wine shop in Greenport, Long Island, and relaunched the business as One Kourt Studio. Since opening in early April, she’s made some quick changes to meet social distancing measures and consumer needs. She did this by building a website offering the shop’s full inventory for pickup and local delivery, since many customers are now buying their wine and spirits online. Customers are still shopping in-store, though, and Cavoores says she is excited to see locals browsing the changing selection and exploring new options. (This summer’s top request? Chillable reds.)
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues, Cavooers continues to learn and adapt to restrictions and challenges. She hopes to host wine education classes and tastings at One Kourt Studio in the future.
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