OUR HISTORY
WHAT WE OFFER
Red & White is a big store with small selection. But this, we believe, is a situation where less really is more. We specialize in small production bottles, hard-to-find offerings and wine, beer and spirits that you can’t find at your average store. We love interesting, unique, and sometimes even far-out selections that awaken the senses and tell a story about their origins and their history.
Everything we put on our shelves has been researched and vouched for, either by us, or by trusted distributors. It’s important to us to help you expand your experiences and explore what’s out there, but to do so in a way that is worth your time and your money, no matter how much of either you have to offer.
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WHAT WE BELIEVE IN
Our search to bring you some of the world’s most exciting wines always begins with the land.We believe great wines come from great fruit. And great fruit is achieved by creating the healthiest environment in the vineyard.
We go out of our way to support vineyards that employ thoughtful farming practices and intervene only minimally in the land and the fruit. This biodynamic philosophy lends itself to creating wines that speak of their specific origins, that are still alive in the bottle and that are active on the palate.
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WHERE WE BEGAN
Co-owners Sean Krainik and Nathan Adams each have nearly 20 years of restaurant experience. We both started our careers behind the scenes, preparing meals in the kitchen. Eventually, both of us became responsible for choosing and planning the seasonal food offerings for some of Chicago’s finest restaurants, as well as creating the accompanying wine and spirit menus and running their wine programs.
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HOW WE GOT STARTED
We met via the restaurant industry in the late 90s. We shared a passion for great food and drink and cultivated our friendship from there. As we acquired more experience and our friendship grew, we realized we wanted to take on more of a leadership role in the world of wine. After Sean returned from a 3-year stint at UVA Wines in Williamsburg (Brooklyn), he and Nathan quickly got to work bringing Red & White to life.
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ABOUT THE SPACE
Sean and Nathan started by sketching a rough idea of the store they hoped to create. Once the plans were agreed upon, they sourced the materials from a shop selling reclaimed Wisconsin barn wood.
Sean, son of a master carpenter, spearheaded the building team. He, Nathan and some of their close friends then constructed the space themselves. The resulting work reflects what they value and what they sell – the space is natural, minimally altered and beautifully crafted.
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ADDITIONAL OFFERINGS
Red & White offers free weekly tastings every Saturday, from 2pm – 5pm. Each tasting consists of at least 4 different selections, which vary every week. No reservations are required. We are also available to host private parties and events. Our open yet intimate layout is a perfect gathering space. Contact us to reserve a date.