Whether you’re single or taken, who doesn’t want a smooth glass (or two) of fabulous wine on Valentines Day? Enter Gianluca Rottura, and his gorgeous family owned wine shop, In Vino Veritas, on the Upper East Side – 1375 First Ave at 74st. Rottura is also the author of 2 books, Wine Made Easy and Ma, What are you cooking? Both available in store and Amazon. Something fun for the month of February- stop into In Vino Veritas, and mention POP STYLE TV, and get 10% off your purchase! Check out our time with Rottura in his shop as we chat about the best wines for V-day.
**About In Vino Veritas in their own words**
In vino veritas is a Latin phrase that means “In wine, there is truth”, suggesting a person under the influence of alcohol is more likely to speak their hidden thoughts and desires. We speak the truth in telling the story of this lovely and charming shop.In Vino Veritas is truly a New York City Landmark. It is believed to be the first liquor store to open in Manhattan after Prohibition ended.
The Rottura Family took it over in April 1997, changed the name, and dedicated a full year to completely renovating the store.
it was an old, shabby, typical, liquor store and became a beautiful treasure of a wine boutique. The store is a glimpse into Old New York –an era of years past. The museum look of the store is one of a kind. During the renovation process huge pieces of stained-glass dating back to the 1800’s were unearthed. The prized glass was restored and renovated to its former glory and the owners inserted the new “In Vino Veritas” store name into it. The inside is enchanting as it is welcoming. Everything from the Murano lamps to the original brick wall that has been exposed are all signs of the passion and reverence our family has for beauty. What is perhaps a true sign of passion is the climate-controlled wine cellar, where every bottle of wine sold to the customer is kept at the perfect temperature. The most exciting part of In Vino Veritas is the carefully hand-picked wine selection. Like every store, popular brands are on site, but they go to great lengths to explore and seek out unknown smaller family vineyards with outstanding values. The Rottura’s are an Italian family with deep roots in Italy and the store specializes in Italian wines but offers selections from other countries such as New Zealand, South Africa, Australia,Greece, Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Spain, Portugal, California, Oregon, Washington State, New York, and of course France.In Vino Veritas also offers a wide array of Kosher wines.
Most importantly, In Vino Veritas is staffed with gracious and knowledgeable wine connoisseurs that have a deep connection with its customers and Upper East Side Community. Having owned a prestigious Italian restaurant in the past, The Rottura family and Gianluca understand the importance of wine and food matching……The staff pairs wines with foods that are in the customer’s budget. From $5.99 a bottle to hundreds of dollars a bottle, In Vino Veritas has it all.
