The Scoop: The Wine Merchant prepares to move to larger location

  After 20 years on South Hanley Road, The Wine Merchant will relocate just two blocks away at 7817 Forsyth Blvd., as reported by St. Louis Business Journal. Wine Merchant vice president Jason Main said plans to move the specialty shop first surfaced in spring 2014 when a developer approached shop management. Rehab to the space, the former home of First National Bank, began in late fall. “There will be an amazing level of rehab,” Main said. “The interior will be mezzanine style. We’re getting a new computer system, a new wine rack and liquor cabinet. It will be the coolest wine shop in St. Louis.” Other building improvements include two second-floor event spaces. Main said the rooms, which will seat about 30 people each, will be used for more frequent, enhanced classes, winemaker symposiums and private tastings. "People call up and want a class for eight people,” Main said. “The new space will mostly be able to accommodate that. We’re also talking about adding Sunday classes. We’re in uncharted territory. We’re going to take it slow and see what develops and what the public wants.” While some elements are expanding, the shop’s extensive selection of wine and cheese will remain the same “We like to keep it seasonal,” he said. “All of our employees have tasted the wines, and ... we taste everything before we buy it.” Look for The Wine Merchant to move into its new building in late spring or early summer.