Fort Greene quenches its Thirst- New wine shop sells passion with its port.

Thirst Wine Merchants,  located at 187 Dekalb Avenue, brings specially selected wines from small producers to the brownstone Fort Greene community. Owned and managed by Michael Yarmark and Emilia Valencia, Thirst opened its doors late December of 2006. Having visited the store this weekend, they clearly have a passion for their product and are willing to spend the time with their more novice customers, selecting a wine or spirit that is sure to be memorable. Two other wine stores like this one are just blocks away. Even traditional liquor stores are trying to jump on the wine wagon, with less success I feel. With the heavy competition in the area, Thirst stands out as an authentic vendor of vino, with unmatched customer service and an attentive staff. On Friday May 18th, they will be featuring Cachaca Dave and the famous Brazillian coctail, the Carpirinha.

Michael Yarmark working the register.

Michael and his wife are passionate about wine and it shows. They offer a wine tasting every Saturday from 2pm to 5pm. This weekend, to my wife's and my delight, there were a few bottles of Riesling opened and waiting to be poured by Steve (out of camera shot). Some stores pour their tasty samplings in those little plastic measuring cups that come with over the counter cold medicines, why? I know it’s economical, but it sure takes away from the experience. Thirst, however, uses wine glasses, and that extra effort in presentation is just one part of why this store is a cut above the rest.

The space, formally an antique shop, is filled with offerings not found at “the other” wine stores. I am a big Cava fan. They recommended one of their best along with a Sauvignon Blanc and the Riesling I tasted. Three bottles later, I left the store knowing I had stumbled onto something special.

 If you're looking for a wine store where the people are knowledgeable and helpful, along with a sizeable offering, look no further. The Thirst for such a store in Historic Brooklyn has been quenched. Pick me up a bottle of Cava and tell them HistoricBrooklyn.com sent you.