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"We try to offer excellent value for an every day price," says Kevin Rydecki of his Saugatuck Wine & Spirits shop. Rydecki bought the store, an existing business, 12 years ago and expanded, adding additional shelving and racks to increase the variety of selections available. Today, he is an integral member of the Westport community and he takes great pride in the fact that he knows so many of his customers and their kids by name.
While he was born and still lives in Trumbull, part of his heart belongs to Westport now. "We're big supporters of local schools and organizations," says Rydecki, who sponsors the Staples High School football team and contributes to other non-profit groups. He runs his business with the help of his mom, who oversees operations when he can't be there, and his dad, who fills in now and then, along with a local staff. All, he says, are well-versed in wines and pairings.
Like many younger wine purveyors, Rydecki's business, which he says is 65 percent wine sales, is largely predicated on small producers and family-owned vineyards. "We seek out organic growers and vintners implementing sustainable farming practices whenever possible. And we carry microbrews and specialty craft beers that you won't find in Stop and Shop. It's the way we distinguish ourselves from the big chains," he says."We also really enjoy educating customers interested in learning more about their purchases and helping to match their selections with food and the seaons." For summer, he's got Gruner Vetliners and Albarinos on his mind and he's happy to share his picks with anyone who wants to stop by.
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