Clifton Wine Shop and Tasting Room Grand Opening

Clifton Wine Shop and Tasting Room owner Lucinda Lawson is hosting the shop's grand opening on Friday, Sept. 7, from 5 to 9 p.m. 

For the celebration, the shop will feature three different L'Ecole wines from Washington state, acoustic music by Sean Wolford, light refreshments provided by Shirley's Catering and exhibits by the Art Guild of Clifton.

If weather permits, some of the artists will practice their crafts outdoors for public viewing. Artists expected at the opening include oil painters Richard Russo and Alina Neas and pastel artist Jack Pardue.

Lawson had been visiting family in Clifton for many years, and determined two years ago to become a resident herself.  She began working in the wine shop for previous owners Julie and Randy Thompson, and decided she wanted to own the shop.  With some convincing and a generous offer, the previous owners sold her the business, even though the Thompsons weren't originally looking to sell.

Lawson plans to combine her interest and love for wine with her passion for art in her shop.  "I envision offering individuals the opportunity to learn about the arts,” said Lawson. “I consider winemaking an art," she said.  "I also love for the artwork on the walls to have a story, and that gives the artist the opportunity to tell that story,” she said.

The shop will be open daily, and Lawson said she will sell unique wines from all over the world. Bottle stoppers, wine glasses and other trinkets for wine lovers will be available for sale, as well as some of the featured art.

Lawson plans to coordinate with the Art Guild of Clifton to feature work by the group's Artist of the Month.  She will also introduce new wine selections for the shop's monthly wine club.

The Clifton Wine Shop and Tasting Room is located at 7145 C Main Street in Clifton.  For more information, call 703-266-1607 or visit the shop's Facebook page or follow them on Twitter.