ASHEVILLE - A local chef's return to the brick-and-mortar restaurant style is a triumph for the Woodfin community and diners who frequented Ambrozia Bar and Bistro before its closing five years ago.
On Aug. 21, Quench! Wine Bistro opened at 60 North Merrimon Ave., Suite 105 in Reynolds Village in Woodfin. Chef Sam Etheridge and John Kerr and Gina Trippi, business partners and owners of Metro Wines, have converted the former bottle shop into a wine bistro offering regular lunch and dinner services and a complementary bar menu of wine and beer pairings – and a soup of the day.
In 2019, Etheridge closed Ambrozia, which had a six-year run on Merrimon Avenue. The space was sold to Early Girl Eatery.
Chef Sam Etheridge, owner of Ambrozia, has parterned with Metro Wines at Reynolds Village in North Asheville.
Etheridge said he wanted to be more present for his adolescent children, so he pivoted to a catering company, allowing him to control his schedule and workload.
Etheridge said he wanted to be more present for his adolescent children, so he pivoted to a catering company, allowing him to control his schedule and workload.
As a private chef, Etheridge collaborated with Kerr and Trippi, who had been regulars at Ambrozia, on pop-up dinners with Metro Wines.
A visit to Metro Wines’ Reynolds Village storefront, which had briefly served as a retail bottle shop and a special events venue, and seeing the prominent bar inspired Etheridge.
“After a Fantasy Football draft, me and Gina started joking, ‘We could turn that place into a wine bar with soup.’ That was the beginning,” Etheridge said.
Kerr and Trippi, who also own and operate Metro Wines bottle shop at 169 Charlotte St., praised Etheridge for his culinary skills and creativity put into each dish, which has been an ideal match for the wine retailer.
“I never planned to get back into the restaurant business. I liked private chefing,” Etheridge said. “But it was the right situation for me. It’s smaller than most restaurants because we want to enjoy it and have our personal lives.” Since opening Quench, Etheridge said he’s seen a lot of Ambrozia customers he hasn’t seen in five years.
“It’s been nice to be able to open with a customer base that already knows us,” Etheridge said.
The bistro's menu features new dishes, plus revivals from Etheridge’s recipe repertoire.
Quench’s deviled eggs with bacon jam and fried sage is a longtime favorite of Etheridge and was a hit with Ambrozia diners.
The menu continues with ahi tuna nachos with citrus caviar, a classic cassoulet with sausage and chicken confit, and burrata with mint pesto, watermelon and tomatoes.
“Everything is based off the wine and pairs well with the wines,” Etheridge said. “We kept with the soup idea so most of the entrées are soup-based like the Cassoulet and Beef Bourguignon and vegetarian gumbo.”
The gumbo is a nod to Trippi, a vegetarian from New Orleans.
Various gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches are on the list, like the French onion grilled cheese sandwich with Gruyere.
The bacon jam and pimento grilled cheese sandwich is made with tomatoes and birria and served with a dipping sauce.
“We try to have fun and be creative,” Etheridge said.
Metro Wines aficionados curate Quench’s drink offerings. “Quality is number one and we’re also trying to be slightly adventurous,” Kerr said.
Wine is available by the glass and retail bottle. Quench offers takeout and delivery. Bistro diners may request assistance choosing a beverage that pairs well with their meal.
Wine and Dinner Nights
The pop-up dinner concepts have continued, now with a home base.
Since Quench’s opening, there have been sake, wine and Bastille Day dinner parties. Special dining events, including some scheduled for late lunch guests, are intended for at least once a month and to increase in the new year. Expect collaborative programs with local chefs and wine professionals, too.
Metro Wines offers Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) training for sommelier certification.
Quench’s location Reynolds Village, a mixed-use residential and commercial neighborhood, is intended to bring something new and original to Woodfin that all can enjoy.
The partners aim to offer moderate pricing and fill a void in the local dining scene.
“Asheville’s well established. Weaverville is well established. This is kind of like a no-man’s land in between and there’s a great future for Woodfin,” Kerr said.
“Quench is downtown Asheville food and wine in Woodfin with free parking,” Trippi said.
Quench! Wine Bistro
Where: 60 North Merrimon Ave., Suite 105, Reynolds Village, Woodfin.
Hours: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. (last seating) Wednesday-Saturday.
Info: Catering services and private venue event bookings are available. For more, visit quenchavl.com and facebook.com/quenchavl. For more event announcements, sign up for Metro Wines’ newsletter at metrowinesasheville.com.
Stu Helm, Food Fan, Reviews Quench!
Dawn and I recently drove to Reynolds Village to visit our friend Chef Sam Etheridge (formerly of Ambrosia fame!) at his new venture, Quench Wine Bistro Cheese Provisions! It's a lovely little shop with a few tables and a counter. There's an excellent selection of wine from Metro Wines Asheville, plus a great little menu from Chef Sam! Dawn ordered a glass of wine, and tuna tartare "nachos," and loved both! I stuck with water and ordered a big ol' bowl of comfort in the form of Beef Bourguignon. It was awesome. So warm, flavorful, and satisfying! Dawn and I both recommend Quench! For eaters as well as wine fans.
News Release: Tuesday, September 17th, 2024
Level 3 Award in Wines
An advanced level qualification for professionals working in the wine industry and for serious wine enthusiasts.
Sunday/Tuesday January 19th/21st, 9:30 – 5:00 pm (in person)
Monday/Tuesday January 27th/28th 9:30 – 5:00 pm (in person)
Monday February 10th 6:00 – 9:00 pm EDT (online webinar)
Tuesday February 18th 9:30 – 5:00 pm (in person, Final Class)
Monday February 24th – 9:30 – 1:00 pm (Exam Day)
Registration closes January 6th
Course Price: $1,499
For individuals seeking to delve deeply into the world of wines. Provides a detailed understanding of grape growing and wine making. Open to students with WSET Level 2 Award in Wines, or who can demonstrate knowledge at an Intermediate level through the completion of equivalent education courses, or who have sufficient wine trade experience. The course covers wines of the world in – depth (35+ hours) and tastings of 70+ wines. This qualification has a minimum requirement of 84 hours of study time, including 30 hours of classroom time. Please see my note on Level 3 and the commitment the class requires
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Level 1 Award in Wines
Perfect for Tasting Room and Restaurant Service Pros and Wine Lovers
Sunday, January 26th, Course & Exam, 9:30am - 5:00pm
Registration closes January 13th
Course price: $350
Classes at Quench! in Reynolds Village, Asheville
A beginner level introduction to wine, all in one day, suitable for those starting a wine career or pursuing an interest in wine. You’ll explore the main types and styles of wine through sight, smell, and taste, while also gaining the skills to describe wines accurately, and make food and wine pairings, as well as learning wine service and etiquette. Tasting of 10 wines from around the world.
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Level 2 Award in Wines
A Deep Dive into Wine Styles & Regions, Winemaking & Wine Tasting
Part 1 and 2: Sunday/Monday, February 16th/17th, 9:30am - 5:00pm
Please note these dates include President’s Day
Part 3 and Exam: Tuesday, February, 25th, 9:30am - 5:00pm
Registration closes February 11th
Course price: $850
Classes at Quench! in Reynolds Village, Asheville
For individuals seeking a core understanding of a wide range of wines, this qualification explores the major grape varieties of the world and regions in which they are grown. Through a blend of tasting and theory, we explore the factors that impact style and quality and learn to describe wines with confidence. Course includes tastings of over 35 wines. “Melanie makes the learning accessible, fun and engaging, all while ensuring a depth of understanding. Melanie’s classes are essential learning for anyone who is serious about expanding their wine education as well as for those who love wine, but also want to keep it real.”
We are excited to announce the first series of WSET Award in Wines certification courses for 2025, presented by MWWine School in partnership with Asheville School of Wines/Metro Wines, including WSET Level 3 Award in Wines, one of the industry’s most prestigious and most rigorous credentials. Join us in January to elevate your wine game. Use code OWN2025 to receive 10% off all Asheville course registrations.
WSET Level 3 Award in Wines starts on January 19th
WSET Level 1 Award in Wines on January 26th
WSET Level 2 Award in Wines starts on February 16th
WSET Level 1 Award in Wines on January 26th
WSET Level 2 Award in Wines starts on February 16th
Courses and Dates:
WSET Level 1 Award in Wines January 26
One day class & exam
WSET Level 2 Award in Wines Feb 16, 17 & 25
Three day class & exam
WSET Level 3 Award in Wines Jan 19, 21, 27, 28, Feb 10, 18 & 25
Six day class & exam day
(5 in-person and 1 webinar )
WSET Level 1 Award in Wines January 26
One day class & exam
WSET Level 2 Award in Wines Feb 16, 17 & 25
Three day class & exam
WSET Level 3 Award in Wines Jan 19, 21, 27, 28, Feb 10, 18 & 25
Six day class & exam day
(5 in-person and 1 webinar )
All classes at Quench! Wine Bistro
QuenchAVL.com
60 North Merrimon Ave. Suite 105, Reynolds Village
in Woodfin. Free and Easy Parking.
Level 3 Award in Wines
An advanced level qualification for professionals working in the wine industry and for serious wine enthusiasts.
Sunday/Tuesday January 19th/21st, 9:30 – 5:00 pm (in person)
Monday/Tuesday January 27th/28th 9:30 – 5:00 pm (in person)
Monday February 10th 6:00 – 9:00 pm EDT (online webinar)
Tuesday February 18th 9:30 – 5:00 pm (in person, Final Class)
Monday February 24th – 9:30 – 1:00 pm (Exam Day)
Registration closes January 6th
Course Price: $1,499
Classes at Quench! in Reynolds Village, Asheville
For individuals seeking to delve deeply into the world of wines. Provides a detailed understanding of grape growing and wine making. Open to students with WSET Level 2 Award in Wines, or who can demonstrate knowledge at an Intermediate level through the completion of equivalent education courses, or who have sufficient wine trade experience. The course covers wines of the world in – depth (35+ hours) and tastings of 70+ wines. This qualification has a minimum requirement of 84 hours of study time, including 30 hours of classroom time. Please see my note on Level 3 and the commitment the class requires
******************************
Level 1 Award in Wines
Perfect for Tasting Room and Restaurant Service Pros and Wine Lovers
Sunday, January 26th, Course & Exam, 9:30am - 5:00pm
Registration closes January 13th
Course price: $350
Classes at Quench! in Reynolds Village, Asheville
A beginner level introduction to wine, all in one day, suitable for those starting a wine career or pursuing an interest in wine. You’ll explore the main types and styles of wine through sight, smell, and taste, while also gaining the skills to describe wines accurately, and make food and wine pairings, as well as learning wine service and etiquette. Tasting of 10 wines from around the world.
******************************
Level 2 Award in Wines
A Deep Dive into Wine Styles & Regions, Winemaking & Wine Tasting
Part 1 and 2: Sunday/Monday, February 16th/17th, 9:30am - 5:00pm
Please note these dates include President’s Day
Part 3 and Exam: Tuesday, February, 25th, 9:30am - 5:00pm
Registration closes February 11th
Course price: $850
Classes at Quench! in Reynolds Village, Asheville
For individuals seeking a core understanding of a wide range of wines, this qualification explores the major grape varieties of the world and regions in which they are grown. Through a blend of tasting and theory, we explore the factors that impact style and quality and learn to describe wines with confidence. Course includes tastings of over 35 wines. “Melanie makes the learning accessible, fun and engaging, all while ensuring a depth of understanding. Melanie’s classes are essential learning for anyone who is serious about expanding their wine education as well as for those who love wine, but also want to keep it real.”
Melanie Webber, DipWSET, Director
MWWine School
Melanie Webber is a certified wine educator, sommelier, writer and communications expert who helps wine industry professionals achieve their wine certifications and wine lovers deepen their appreciation and understanding of wine. At the core of everything Melanie does is her passion to make it fun to learn how to taste, assess and enjoy wine. She holds the globally-recognized Diploma in Wine & Spirits from WSET as well as the French Wine Scholar and Spanish Wine Scholar certifications from the Wine Scholar Guild and is certified by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust to teach WSET Level 1, 2 and 3 Awards in Wine. Melanie’s MWWine School is an approved program provider of WSET and Spanish/French Wine Scholar courses in Asheville, NC and Paso Robles.She has taught WSET courses since 2018, helping over 700 industry professionals and wine lovers achieve their certifications.
She is also an adjunct Wine Studies professor at College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita. Melanie has traveled extensively to wine regions around the world gathering material for classes as well for her articles for her blog, BottlePoet, and for a variety of other outlets. Melanie’s articles “The Wine Student” and "Chianti spritzer on the beach" were shortlisted in the 2023 and 2024 Jancis Robinson Wine Writing competition and both are published at JancisRobinson.com.
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Register for All Classes Here:
Contact: Kristen Calloway
Charlotte Street! It's the Next BIG Thing!
"Big Shop Selection. Small Shop Service"
(828) 575-9525
5 Star Review for Quench! from Talent
"This has become my favorite little lunch and dinner spot in town.
The food is fresh and it is made with heart and soul.
They have gone out of their way when I requested wine pairings for my dishes.
They also have the accoutrements if you’re planning a nice little party;
wine, beer by the bottle, good cheese, olives etc.Also cassoulet was divine.
One more thing, they have a grilled cheese special that changes periodically,
the last one that I had for lunch today had a bit of a salty fried crispy ham
contrasted bit of spicy, zazzy green hatch chili and a generous melt of manchego. My taste buds are happy!
Food: 5/5Service: 5/5Atmosphere: 5/5"
News Release: Sunday, September 15th, 2024
About: Tasting Wines by Women Winemakers
Join us at Quench! in Reynolds Village on September 25th from 3-6pm. Juniper Cooper hosts a wine tasting of wines by women winemakers to celebrate Mother Daughter Day. The event is "at the Quench Bar" and "on the house." Expect a few snacks from Quench! in house Chef, Sam Etheridge.
Wine Enthusiast says: "For centuries, winemaking was a male-dominated field. Today, women across the globe are changing that narrative and shaking up the industry, adding ever-more names to history’s list of important women in wine. Even in the face of obstacles that have some women in wine struggling to stay afloat, female change makers are fighting to make the fruit of the vine more inclusive for future generations."
"Come for the tasting," says Gina Trippi, co-owner of Quench!. "And stay for dinner!"
Quench! is located at 60 North Merrimon, Ste 105, in Reynolds Village, Woodfin. For more information about Quench!, go to QuenchAVL.com
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Contact: Gina Trippi
Charlotte Street! It's the Next BIG Thing!
"Big Shop Selection. Small Shop Service"
(828) 575-9525
News Release: Wednesday, July 31st, 2024
About: Quench! Evolved Dinner Series: Materra/Cunat Family Vineyards
Join us for our first in series "Quench! Evolved Dinner" with Materra/Cunat Family Vineyards on Thursday, August 29th at 6pm at Quench!, 60 North Merrimon, Suite 105 in Reynolds Village, Woodfin. Dishes will be prepared by Quench! award winning, in-house Chef Sam Etheridge to perfectly pair with Materra Wines.
The evening starts with Materra Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc and continues with a course presenting a side by side comparison of Materra Left and Right Bank Bordeaux Blends, and concluding with John's "2023 Wine of the Year," Materra Midnight!
There will be 20 seats only for this intimate dinner with Brian Noshay, National Sales Manager for Materra, Gwen Bell of Three Keys Distribution and Chef Sam! The evening is $85 (plus tax) and parking is free, close and easy.
Reserve your seats NOW by calling (828) 575-9525
or online here: https://metro-wines.shoplightspeed.com/august-29th-evolved-dinner-series-materra.html
About Materra Wines:
From his days, owner Brian Cunat, worked on a Midwest farm, developing an interest and respect for agriculture and farming that became his life’s passion. In 2007, Brian and his brother John purchased a 50-acre property in the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley as an investment. Brian decided to blend his passion with an expert team of vineyard managers and winemakers. In 2014 they completed construction of a state-of-the-art winery capable of producing 150,000 gallons and a beautiful tasting room. Each Materra wine is a perfect expression of the land, the grapes, the passion the Cunat family has invested in each bottle and the unyielding quality delivered consistently by the growing conditions and terroir of the Napa Valley.
About Chelsea Barrett, Director of Winemaking
Chelsea Barrett grew up in Calistoga and began working in vineyards and wineries from a young age. She attended UC Davis and graduated in 2010 with a degree in Viticulture and Enology. After college, Chelsea interned at Mayer am Pfarplaz in Austria, Two Hands in Barossa Valley, then returned home to Napa Valley, spending a harvest at Opus One. She then worked at Joel Gott Wines for seven years with projects all over California, as well as Oregon and Washington. During this time, She also began collaboration with her mother Heidi Barrett making wines for Amuse Bouche and Aviatrix. Chelsea joined the Materra team as Winemaker in 2019. She lives in Calistoga with her husband, three daughters, and a husky-german shepherd mix.
Chelsea Barrett grew up in Calistoga and began working in vineyards and wineries from a young age. She attended UC Davis and graduated in 2010 with a degree in Viticulture and Enology. After college, Chelsea interned at Mayer am Pfarplaz in Austria, Two Hands in Barossa Valley, then returned home to Napa Valley, spending a harvest at Opus One. She then worked at Joel Gott Wines for seven years with projects all over California, as well as Oregon and Washington. During this time, She also began collaboration with her mother Heidi Barrett making wines for Amuse Bouche and Aviatrix. Chelsea joined the Materra team as Winemaker in 2019. She lives in Calistoga with her husband, three daughters, and a husky-german shepherd mix.
Quench website still in progress but you can join in progress at QuenchAVL.com
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Contact for MetroWines: Gina Trippi
Charlotte Street! It's the Next BIG Thing!
"Big Shop Selection. Small Shop Service"
(828) 575-9525
News Release: Saturday, July 20, 2024
About: Orsini Wines Presents Austria!
Join us on Wednesday, August 21st from 4-6pm as Tom Leiner of Orsini Wines presents Austria! at Quench! located at 60 North Merrimon, Suite 105 in Reynolds Village, Woodfin. As always, the tasting is "at the bar" and "on the house" with no reservations required.
Austria has been making wine a long, long time. Wiki says: There is archaeological evidence of grape growing in Traisental 4000 years ago. Grape seeds have been found in urns dating back to 700 BC in Zagersdorf, while bronze wine flagons of the Celtic La Tène culture dating to the 5th century BC have been found at Dürrnberg in Salzburg state. Viticulture thrived under the Romans, once Marcus Aurelius Probus (Roman emperor 276–282) had overturned the ban on growing grapes north of the Alps. Both Grüner Veltliner and Welschriesling appear to have been grown around the Danube since Roman times.
"Austrian wines have a reputation for being lighter and most are compared to the California style but Austrian wines are also structurally solid and pack a flavorful punch," says Gina Trippi, co-owner of MetroWines. "And many of the reds are chillable for the warmer months."
Go Here for a complete history of Austrian Wine:
https://www.austrianwine.com/
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Contact for Quench!: Gina Trippi
Quench! website coming soon!
Charlotte Street! It's the Next BIG Thing!
"Big Shop Selection. Small Shop Service"
(828) 575-9525Page 5 of 5