New in town

The latest liquor store in the area is more than just a convenience store. Local craft beers, Michigan-grown foods, international wines and more are available at Vine & Brew in Okemos.

Vine & Brew has its official opening this weekend, with several events to showcase its products and customer service.

“We just try to make the whole beverage and food experience a fun experience and try to bring as many new and interesting items in as we can,” said owner Curt Kosal.

Kosal is running the store with his wife, Leslie. Although it’s their first business, he said he developed an interest in wine and spirits after working in the industry for roughly 15 years, most recently at Goodrich’s Shop-Rite in East Lansing.

Craft beers are the store’s biggest focus: Vine & Brew offers a make-your-own-six-pack option. Any six-pack can be changed with no upcharge, according to Kosal.

He said Michigan breweries are on the rise. “I don’t know if a lot of people realize it, but we’re on the cutting edge in that regard, and it’s just growing,” Kosal said.

The grand opening features the type of events the store plans to offer in the future. Thursday will feature a “Foods from Michigan” tasting from 4-7 p.m. A sparkling wine tasting takes place from 5-7:30 p.m. on Friday, and a representative from Dark Horse Brewing Co. will be at the store for a beer tasting from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday.

“It will be an ever-evolving endeavor, but we’re having fun with it,” Kosal said.