Local wine shops are the best place to seek advice, taste new wines, and—obviously—shop local.
At Triangle Grapevine, we’re committed to supporting small, independent wine shops, and Cellar 72 is one of my absolute favorites. The knowledge, personal attention, and genuine passion you find in a shop like this is an experience you’ll never get at a grocery store or big-box retailer.
Every once in a while, the stars align, fortune smiles, and a new door opens—literally.
One recent Saturday, I found myself blissfully family-free (moms, you know the struggle) and decided to check out a wine shop I’d heard about but never visited. I scored a prime parallel parking spot in Five Points—already a small miracle—and walked to the door… only to find it locked. Turns out, that shop keeps very limited hours and is mostly by appointment. Whomp whomp.
But just a couple doors down, I spotted a sign: Cellar 72.
I wandered in, and instantly loved the charming, cozy space: shelves of carefully chosen bottles, inviting seating, and the friendly smile of Brad Ellis, the proprietor.
Brad has over 20 years of experience in the wine business and a genuine passion for the pour. His shop features a well-curated selection of wines (with room to grow as he finds new gems) and a rotating list of wines by the glass—perfect for sipping as you browse. Brad has a knack for asking the right questions to guide you to your perfect bottle, whether you’re pairing with dinner, sharing with friends, or bringing a gift.
And then there are the wine dinners—held about every other week. Each features multiple courses, each paired with wines, for $150 per person (exclusive of tax and tip). With seating for only about 24 guests, the evenings feel intimate and special. What makes them unique is Brad’s approach: instead of creating a menu first and pairing wines later (as restaurants often do), he starts by choosing the wines he wants to highlight and works with a chef to build a menu around them. Brilliant. I’ll be booking one as soon as my schedule allows.
If you’re looking for an easy way to check out Cellar 72, Thursdays when there is not a dinner scheduled, Cellar 72 offers wine tastings from 5–7 p.m. Cost is $20 for about 5 wines. Word is, Brad doesn’t hold back—so you might get to try something truly spectacular.
Of course, Cellar 72 is just one of many independent wine shops in the Triangle. Click here for a map of shops and check out the calendar here for upcoming tastings and events around the area.
Have a favorite shop or tasting I should know about? Drop me a note—I’d love to explore it.
Cheers!