The Grape Life Wine Lounge and Cellar is entering a new chapter under new owners Jason Huffman and Rhiannon Nichols. They will officially take over on Nov. 1 at a special event in their Davenport store.
To celebrate the new beginning, they are inviting the community to a Grand Welcoming Event from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 1, at 3402 Elmore Ave., the couple said in a news release. They also urged Quad Citians to stop by to meet the new owners, enjoy a complimentary champagne toast, and take in live music from Playlist Trio throughout the day, a Grape Life release said.
They also said be sure to RSVP on The Grape Life website for the QC Santana Tribute Band performing there that night from 8-10 p.m. ($5 per person). You can call (563) 355-7070 to make your reservations as well.
Mr. Huffman’s passion for wine began during his U.S. Army service in Germany, where he developed an appreciation for European wines and culture, the release said. After retiring from the military in 2021, he became a federal employee on Rock Island Arsenal while also working part-time at Olathea Creek Vineyard & Winery in LeClaire. There he learned the winemaking process firsthand. Since then, his knowledge and love of wine have only grown.
Mr. Huffman and Ms. Nichols said they are “thrilled to carry on The Grape Life’s spirit and vibrant live music scene.” They added that while the heart of the lounge will remain the same, they plan to introduce “thoughtful enhancements.”
Guests, however, can continue to enjoy talented local musicians every Friday and Saturday night in the intimate, relaxed listening room The Grape Life is known for its monthly Premier Wine Tasting experiences. Customers are invited to become a member in their Wine Club, and be on the lookout for occasional Sunday special events.
