Taking on the "mecca of wine" in the city isn't something that happens overnight. In fact it took two years from the time Vanessa shook hands with the original wine trader himself, Duncan Win, over a coffee securing the future of Village Wines, to her stepping through the door as the new owner in April this year. But it has been a journey worth the wait and preparation.

It's a leap that surprised absolutely no one that knows her, as Vanessa has spent the past 12 years honing her skills at one of a handful boutique Liquorlands in the country. Thanks to numerous national and international trips, expos, and time with the industry experts from across the globe, Vanessa has refined her palette and progressed quickly to be well placed to provide expert advice to anyone that seeks it.

Vine and dine in Palmy

Thanks to boujee businesses like the Village Wine Trader, Palmerston North is fast becoming known for its selection of luxury beverage products beyond the grape. Ebony Coffee, Brew Union and Arrosta Coffee Roasting Co. to name to a few, are simply thriving in the city, offering connoisseurs a tantalizing array of beverage options to explore. From freshly batch brewed beer to expertly roasted coffee beans, Palmerston North is a treasure trove for those with a taste for the finer things in life. 

The city's vibrant food scene further complements its status as a haven for vino lovers and enthusiasts of luxury beverages, Local eateries, bistros, and wine bars showcase the region's bounty, pairing exceptional wines with delicious dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The Future's Full to the Brim

Going forward Vanessa is hoping to grow her customer base through events and local collabs, particularly looking to reach a younger generation as they come of age to appreciate the beauty of good wine. Alongside Matt, who worked with Duncan for 11 years, Vanessa hopes they will be a part of their 'a-ha' moments as they understand what they like and what they love and can be there to help with their celebrations, special occasions or for when they want to enjoy a crisp glass of pinot grigio on a Tuesday night - just because they can! And with the current vibrant wine scene in Palmerston North, she is confident they will be.

More than home to great wine, Village Wines is also a destination for whiskey lovers and spirit enthusiasts alike. With whiskey clubs popping up throughout the city, and Palmerston North locals avid attenders of events celebrating drinks and food of all varieties, it is clear that Village Wine is filling a gap that we would otherwise be looking online or travelling for - with the added bonus of supporting a locally owned boutique business. As Vanessa puts it, trends come and go within the industry, a bit like fashion, experimenting with new flavours and spirits is always part of the gig, but it is the tried and true classics that will stand the test of time and that's the style and service Village Wines offers.

Although Vanessa is full to the brim with trusted advice, she tells us it's the listening that she is most looking forward to. "Every bottle has a story that needs to be told, and while I am looking forward to doing the wine justice, I am also looking forward to hearing from our customers. New ideas? Suggestions? Opportunities to collaborate? I'm all ears!"