Last night Yvette and I went to her friend Simon’s new wine bar. Coincidentally, the wine bar is right below my apartment. New hangout spot? I think so.

Wine in China is relatively new (rice wine is not the same thing) and as a result it can be rather spendy. Simon’s goal is provide good, affordable wine in a high-end atmosphere. His wine bar is for members only. Members can store their bottles at the wine bar. They also receive a special, personalized glass to keep at the bar. Minimal space gives the wine bar a cozy, personal atmosphere great for business, friends and couples.

Simon plans to expand his company first in Beijing, then to other cities around China.

I believe Simon has a great business with the opportunity to be a huge success. I hope to work with him and help bring Eastern Washington wines to China. Eastern Washington shares the same latitude (46°N) as the prestigious French wine regions Bordeaux and Burgundy. It’s no wonder the number of Eastern Washington wineries increased 400 percent in the past decade. Currently there are 650 licensed wineries in Washington State. I feel we produce some of the best wine in the world. Eastern Washington wineries should be looking to expand to a market like China.

Please check back to see the progress of Simon’s wine bar. He has an event on Tuesday I plan to attend.

What do you think of Simon’s wine bar? I love places like this. They feel so personal. Do you know of any bars like this in the States?

♥ BB