There is little doubt that the most glamorous job in a bar is the bartender. As the “front man” for the establishment, the bartender is able to set the mood for the evening, while at the same time, entertaining, mixing, and helping patrons choose the right concoctions for the night. While this role is essential, lets not overlook the person who actually chooses what wine and drinks will be made available to begin with.
Niche Hospitality Group—the parent company of Mezcal Tequila Cantina, Bocado, Still & Stir, The Peoples Kitchen, and The Citizen Wine Bar— made a fantastic choice when they brought Katie Kelly on as the Wine Director in June. Coming from Ceres Bistro, Katie’s background includes a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management from UMass Amherst, advanced education through a Sommelier Certification from the Guild of Master Sommeliers, and working experience at The Breakers in Palm Beach, FL.
Some of her favorite wines today are from Southern Italy and Washington State and she is excited about what is coming from both regions because of the balance of bold fruit flavors, acidity and minerality found in their wines, Katie has diversified the wine list at The Citizen Wine Bar, which now consist of 37 wines but will soon be expanded to 70 wines that include sparkling, whites, rosé, reds, and an array of dessert wines.
As the Wine Director at The Citizen Wine Bar, Katie not only is charged with the task of selecting some of the best wines from around the world, but also keeping the list fresh. Listening to the customers is a key. “We keep wine as long as people love them and they’re the best fit for what we need,” Katie said in an August interview. “I am always looking for honest feedback about what our customers think of the list. If a wine is not working, I start looking for a better option.”
Katie is quick to point out, “The price doesn’t determine if a wine will be good.” But when choosing a wine, price, along with flavor are the two most important aspects to choosing a wine for the wine list. “I try to set a price in mind and continually taste in that price range until I find what I consider to be a great value wine,” says Katie.
Most of us are not wine connoisseurs but Worcester has many outstanding local resources to learn about wine. Wine Nation in Millbury and KJ Baarons and Julio’s of Worcester offer free tastings and have a knowledgeable staff that is ready to offer advice and suggestions. “The best way to expand your horizons and enhance your palate is to continually taste different wines,” says Katie. And one of the best places in Worcester to try some new wines is The Citizen Wine Bar in Exchange Place, including “The Velvet Devil” Washington Merlot by Charles Smith, Raymond Barrel to Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon, or La Cappuccina Soave.