After 18 years, Frank and I have decided that is time to move to the next chapter of Windham Wines. We have sold the shop to Jeff Houle, former manger of the wine department at the Brattleboro Food Coop, and his wife, Julie. Our last day is Saturday, October 19th. Jeff plans to open when the licenses transfer, ideally by November 1st.
We asked Jeff and Julie to provide us with a statement we could share with you, using this last email from me (Marty) to give them an opportunity to introduce themselves to you. Here is their short message:
It is with great excitement that we announce Jeff & Julie Houle are in the final stages of purchasing Windham Wines from Marty Ramsburg and Frank Larkin!
As many of you may know, Jeff brings years of wine and beer experience to the table. He has worked on the sale side of the industry and most recently served as the Wine and Beer Manager and buyer for the Brattleboro Food Coop for the past 14 years. During this time, Jeff has provided local customers and visitors alike with extensive knowledge and a fantastic selection of wines and beers to purchase. He is eager to continue this journey as he grows Windham Wines, welcoming both the current customers of Windham Wines and his long-time, loyal customers from the Coop, as well as new.
Stay tuned for updates on their grand opening and special events as they embark on this exciting journey. Jeff and Julie are thrilled to become a part of the Windham Wines legacy and look forward to serving you all in the near future. Cheers!
We don’t know the direction that Jeff and Julie will take Windham Wines, but it will surely change to reflect their strengths and interests. In the meantime, we are at the shop and would love to see you. I (Marty) have identified a set of wines that are some of my current favorites. These will be on the front rack as you come into the shop if you’d like to take some of those home. I know that some of each are coming home with me!
So customer-friends, thank you for your support. It has been a pleasure to meet you and to have wide-ranging conversations with many of you over the years. You have enriched our lives and become our friends. What greater success could we have than that? Thank you.
In appreciation always.
Marty and Frank