Pamela Robertson always loved wine.
And after selling the liquidation business she married into, she saw opportunity knocking to use that passion at one of the vacant properties she owns.
With guidance from friend and fellow wine connoisseur Bill Allegri of Gresham-based Allegri Wine Shop, Robertson opened Evergreen Wine Cellar in April 2008.
“It’s absolutely the most exciting business I could have gone into,” Robertson said. “People come in smiling and they leave smiling. It’s a wonderful business.”
She is the sole employee of the 430-square-foot store, with the exception of a protective monk statue raising his glass in toast to lively music playing on a vintage radio. Photos of enthused customers adorn the front desk – a collection Robertson calls the store’s “wall of fame.”
Robertson plans to expand the shop into an adjacent empty space to create a “wine by the glass” bar by the beginning of summer, serving drinks as well as cheese, chocolates, nuts and fruits.
A patio project, which she says will be a relaxing place to lounge during hot summer days, is also in the works.
The store holds themed wine tastings, such as “Italian Vineyards,” every Friday night – attracting new visitors and old friends.
Robertson declined to share details about revenue, but said customers are still coming even if the economy’s struggles have left a sour taste in their mouths.
“People drink when they’re happy and they drink when they’re sad,” she said. “I think people are buying more $15 bottles of wine than $40 bottles of wine, but I think they’re buying the same amount of wine.”
The store’s offerings range from $7 to $110, but Robertson says the store’s best kept secret won’t break the bank – a bottle of the Plungerhead Old Vine Zinfandel.
“It has these incredible cinnamon and cherry notes,” she said. “For a $15 zinfandel, it just melts in your mouth. It’s really incredible.”
Evergreen Wine Cellar is located at 2608 E. Evergreen Blvd. in Vancouver. Robertson can be reached at 360-993-8880.
Collin Rickman can be reached at 360-448-6009.
