There is a new face behind the counter at the long-time Homewood business, Family Wine and Liquors at 18707 S. Dixie Highway. But for long-time customers, there is no need to worry that anything more will change.
There is a new face behind the counter at the long-time Homewood business, Family Wine and Liquors at 18707 S. Dixie Highway. But for long-time customers, there is no need to worry that anything more will change.
Ronak Patel is the new owner of Family Wine & Liquors, a mainstay in the Homewood business community. (Sharon L. Filkins/H-F Chronicle)
The new owner, Ronak Patel, is quick to assure faithful customers that he will provide the same quality products, and most importantly, he will continue the friendly customer service standard set by the previous owner, Butch Girolami, who owned the store for 42 years.
In keeping with his promise to continue the traditions, Patel announced that he is hosting a wine-tasting at the store on Saturday, March 9, from 3 to 6 p.m., with Girolami conducting the event.
“I thought it would give long-time customers a chance to visit with him and congratulate him on his retirement. If someone purchases a wine at the tasting, there will be a special discount.”
Patel has more than 10 years experience in the retail liquor industry, and when he learned that Family Wine & Liquors was for sale, he felt it was the right time to pursue his own business. He met with the Girolami family and was impressed with the location and the history of the business. He was able to purchase the store and went on to obtain a liquor license for the business. His brother, Jay, will work with him in the store.
The beer can display collected by previous owner Butch Girolami will remain as a token of new owner Ronak Patel’s commitment to carrying on the store’s traditions of quality and service. (Sharon L. Filkins/H-F Chronicle)
“I am anxious to become acquainted with the community and welcome the customers. I want to assure them that I am not planning any drastic changes. My goal is to keep the old school liquor store traditions established by the Girolami family and to keep the business growing,” he said.
Demonstrating his point, he pointed to the top shelf on the south wall of the store which was lined from the front window to the rear of the store with rows of antique beer cans, stacked three high.
“That is an incredible collection, and it will remain right where it is,” said Patel.
The store has a wide variety of liquors, wines and premium champagnes displayed in attractive arrangements. Also included in the store is a large selection of premium cigars on display along with racks of wine accessories and various upscale gift items.
“If we have a customer who is looking for a special item and we don’t have it, we will order it for them,” Patel said. He added that they can take special requests such keg orders for a party or liquor orders for weddings. “We will give special discounts depending on the size of the orders.”
The store is open seven days a week; Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Patel said he plans to hold wine-tastings regularly on Fridays, from 4 to 7 p.m.
