Lake District Holdings LLC. has purchased Bon Vin on Eighth Street in Traverse City and has now opened its doors as Lake District Wine Co. See what they’re up to and what they’re planning for the future.

For over ten years, Bon Vin has been a favorite shop for eclectic wines. Under the stewardship of its owners, John Dressler and Ric Cerrini, Bon Vin has created a legion of loyal customers due to its selection of wines from around the world and Ric’s vast knowledge of every wine and region in the shop.

In announcing the sale of his shop, John said, “When Ric and I opened Bon Vin, our mission was to curate wines from around the world that provided quality, distinction, and most of all, value to the masses so all could enjoy. This remarkable 10-year journey has reached a pinnacle, and Ric and I thought that if we could find someone that shared our vision and mix it with a dose of useful energy, it would be a good time to pass it on. Well, we have found this person, or should I say a team of three entrepreneurs, Kristy, Alaina, and Michael, who bring enthusiasm to these attributes with the same passion and connections to the regional wine scene. Ric and I are certain that Kristy, Alaina, and Michael can take your wine experience to the next summit.”

The new owners come from various backgrounds, with Alaina Leech having worked in marketing and tourism for most of her 15-year career in Aspen, CO, and Traverse City, MI. Kristy McClellan has worked in the local wine scene for over a decade. She brings a wealth of hospitality passion and expertise to the shop from her experience at Tapawingo and J. Alexander’s Corporation. Michael Topp has spent the last 15 years in operations, program development, and member services as the Vice President of Membership at Society of Industrial and Office Realtors based in Washington, D.C. All three are excited to combine their talents with Ric’s knowledge and take the store to the next level.

Alaina says, “Our goal is to be your neighborhood wine shop offering everything from the Old World to the New World with an added emphasis on local wines. We plan to offer educational tastings, industry collaborations, various membership opportunities, and an e-commerce store. We’re giving the shop a little makeover now, but we are open, and we will be planning an official Grand Opening party soon. We look forward to seeing you and helping you find a wine (or beer) to enjoy!”

Lake District Wine Co is located at 539 E Eighth St, Traverse City, MI, and will be open seven days a week.

Photo(s) by Test