Wine Time pairs education with a love of wine

Rob and Lauren Bazemore had a vision to create a wine bar that would become an inviting gathering place to bring the community together and would exceed customers’ expectations. Two and a half years ago, they did just that in the Promenade in Old Town Bluffton. The second location of Wine Time Artisan Kitchen opened last month at Washington Square on Buckwalter Parkway.

With over 400 retail labels, Bazemore said they focus on and support small family vineyards that farm sustainably. Their open kitchen uses locally sourced ingredients.

Bazemore said, “We are pleased that our 2023 vision has been realized. Our philosophy is to make Wine Time a fun spot that is approachable, not intimidating, where both novice and connoisseur wine drinkers feel comfortable and try new wines.”

The Bazemore’s recruited Kevin Cleary, a founding partner, general manager and executive chef. “We posted a position for executive chef, and with his background, we saw that he would help build our business. Some things are meant to be, and this is one of those things. He is the right person, and a blessing.”

Cleary trained in culinary arts in Italy and other locations in Europe. He opened restaurants in Massachusetts and Vermont, and he started a wine school to teach sommeliers. Cleary is certified in wineology with a Diploma 4 from Wine and Spirit Education Trust (DipWSET).

Education is a priority at Wine Time, both for consumers and the staff. Customers can try a flight of wines and vote on their favorites. “It’s an educational opportunity to introduce wines that they may have never tried,” Bazemore said. “What appeals to you is what counts. There’s no right or wrong and you may find a new pearl. People find wines they enjoy, not what they should enjoy.” Wine Time also offers Lunch and Learn ticketed events that pair four or five wines with their food. Each event has a theme such as Bordeaux wines, or California wines, etc. It’s education about which wines go well with various foods.

The staff at Wine Time is encouraged to seek additional education and are trained to explain who the winemaker is, the region the wine comes from, etc., according to Bazemore. “Our staff is confident and knowledgeable to talk about the wines they serve. Seeing them grow and learn is rewarding. Some study to grow their levels and certifications.”

From the beginning, part of their business plan was to make an impact in the community by supporting local non-profit organizations through their Buck a Bottle program. “We educate our staff about the organization of the month so they can talk about the wonderful non-profits that fill gaps in service and do great work,” Bazemore said. To date, they have contributed over $30,000 to several organizations, including Memory Matters, Palmetto Animal League, Volunteers in Medicine and Second Helpings.

Rob Bazemore was born in Savannah, GA and always enjoyed coming to Hilton Head and Bluffton. Lauren was born in Greensboro, NC. In 2019, they decided they wanted to live in Bluffton. “Growing up here, I’ve seen Bluffton when it was small, and now seeing how it’s growing, the spirit of Bluffton hasn’t changed despite its growth,” Bazemore said. Now with the second location open, he hopes to increase their impact in the community.
For more information visit www.winetimebluffton.com.

Edwina Hoyle is a freelance writer in Bluffton.