Just after passing its two year anniversary, local wine delivery service RichWine announced it was opening up shop in Jackson Ward. Penny’s Wine Shop will share a storefront at 405 Brook Road with soon-to-reopened cafe Stoplight Gelato.
The delivery service, run by Lance Lemon and Kristen Gardner Beal, brings local and imported wines + some Virginia ciders to the front doors of Richmonders and Richmond businesses.
Individuals can order specialty bottles and cases or sign up for a membership for curated tastes every month. Businesses can call up RichWine for catering inquiries, happy hours, and Kristen’s favorite — wine education classes.
“Folks will reach out to us to ask us to teach about biodynamic wines, organic wines... sourcing, or going over specific regions like Greek or Italian wines,” Kristen said. “We can set up anywhere from a business conference room to someone’s kitchen.”
Both Lance and Kristen have been in the industry for years, combining their world traveling experience + knowledge of what’s pouring in their home state of VA.
Kristen told us that South African wines are some of her favorites, like this Aslina Savingnon Blanc. We asked her why she brought the business into the River City.
“I think Richmond is a super dynamic city especially for its size because of the amount of small businesses,” Kristen said. “We have so many festivals and activities nearly every weekend. We always say it’s about good people, good wine, and good times.”
The name Penny’s Wine Shop is also a nod to Richmond history.
“It’s an ode to St. Luke Penny Savings Bank, the one Maggie Walker established in Jackson Ward, plus I’ve also had history as an investment banker,” Kristen said. “It’s like parallel histories.”
There’s no opening date for the wine shop yet, but bookings are available.
