Urban boutique winery Camelot Cellars is packing up their business to relocate from the Short North to Olde Towne East. Citing an expanding production and wholesale business, Camelot owner Janine Aquino said that the move is primarily to have more room to grow.
“Our production and distribution has expanded a lot — to 30 to 40 stores, and we’ve run out of production room,” she stated. “Plus, the layout of the building is not really conducive to wine making, and we’re limited to what we can and can’t do per our lease.”
Aqunio said that one lease restriction keeps her from being allowed to sell beer, and adding craft beer to her menu is something she sees as having growing importance to her customer base. The new store, located at the southeast corner of Oak Street and 18th Street near The Angry Baker and Yellow Brick Pizza, will feature Camelot’s wines, several craft beers, and a full restaurant menu that is still in development.
“The concept is going to be geared towards the community — fresh, light, local and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options,” she explained. “I really like Olde Towne East — its got an independent, creative feel.”
Camelot originally opened in its 2,500 square foot Short North space in 2005, and Aquino took it over in 2011. She said that while she’ll miss the neighborhood, she’s excited for a new opportunity to grow.
“We’re not leaving the Short North for the reasons people may think — we’re leaving because of good reasons,” she said. “I’m happy we were there, but also excited about where we’re going.”
The new Camelot Cellars is expected to open in late spring 2016. The Short North location will remain open for as long as possible until the new location is nearly completed. Aquino says that he plan is to only have a two or three week gap between closing the current location and opening the new one.
“Moving the production over is going to be the biggest challenge,” she concluded.
For more information, visit www.camelotcellars.com.