Homewood store to sell fine wine, craft beer
By Nikki Arseneau Correspondent May 23, 2012 11:32PM
Updated: July 3, 2012 9:13AM
Homewood trustees on Tuesday approved creating a new liquor license for a business that wants to set up shop downtown.
Ron Khalaf has leased the former Power Source martial arts studio at 18031 Dixie Highway to start his business, Grapes and Grain Company.
The store will sell home brewing supplies, microbrew beers, craft beers and select wines, Khalaf said.
“I’m not trying to come to Homewood and open up another liquor store,” Khalaf said. “(The store) is only for people who enjoy fine wine and like to drink good beer.”
Khalaf said he will not be carrying domestic beers.
The new liquor license was specifically written for Khalaf’s business and will limit consumption of alcohol to two glasses per person per day. During the holidays, Grapes and Grain will offer single malt and blended scotch.
Khalaf said he plans to offer classes on brewing as well.
He said he has been in the liquor, beer and wine business for 20 years. He recently opened Vino e Birra in LaGrange and is the former operator of Barley and Hops in Glenwood.
“I think it will add a new dimension to the downtown for shopping, and I think it will be a very nice business to have in town,” Mayor Rich Hofeld said.
Trustees agreed — even saying “Cheers” to the new business.
“It reminds me of something you would find in Bucktown. It’s got a nice feel to it,” Trustee Anne Colton said.
Grapes and Grain Company plans to open in late July or early August.
“It’s going to be a really classy place,” Khalaf said. “I think it will do very well.”
