Public Wine announced its planned opening in Lafayette for early 2023, bringing a new wine-focused establishment to Old Town. Owners Doug Wargo and Genae Lako designed the venue as a welcoming space for wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. The business concept emphasizes accessibility and education, offering curated wine selections paired with knowledgeable service in a relaxed atmosphere. Public Wine aims to demystify wine culture and create an inviting environment where customers can explore different varieties, learn about wine regions and production methods, and enjoy quality wines without pretension. The owners planned to feature rotating wine selections, educational tastings, and small plates to complement the wine program. The establishment reflects Lafayette's growing culinary and beverage scene, adding to the variety of dining and drinking options available in Old Town.

> Co-owners Genae Lako and Doug Wargo opened Public Wine at 100 S Public Road to offer Lafayette a curated selection of boutique wines, beer, and spirits with a focus on natural wine, organic wine, European selections, and unique offerings from the West Coast and beyond. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the shop specializes in Old World selections with more than 50 wine labels under $20 and the majority of wines under $80, making quality wines accessible to all enthusiasts. What sets Public Wine apart is their commitment to community education and connection: they host FREE in-store wine tastings every Thursday from 4-6 PM, allowing customers to discover new favorites, and offer a quarterly wine club where members receive six bottles every quarter for $150, complete with detailed information about each wine and food pairing suggestions. This boutique bottle shop has become a Lafayette destination for wine lovers seeking natural, organic, and carefully selected wines from around the world, with owners dedicated to sharing their passion for wine through tastings, education, and personalized service.