Photos by Jane Kortright
“Wine is one of those things that people get really timid about,” says Jason Jones, owner of Augusta Wine Company. “But there’s no pretension here. I don’t judge anyone’s wine knowledge level. Historically, sommeliers have been very pretentious. As an industry, we’ve been trying to change that. This is a safe space where we can speak about wine on any level. Quality and high-end don’t have to translate into expensive.”
This perspective comes from years of working in the wine industry in various capacities. What started as an introduction to wines in the restaurant industry of Myrtle Beach, S.C. eventually landed Jones a nine-year career as assistant sommelier, and then head sommelier at Augusta National Golf Club.
Jones’ experience working in the fine dining industry before and during college would provide a formative and foundational education in his career path. Capping it off with an official certification as a sommelier, he was further able to employ his skills with all sorts of country clubs and restaurants over the past couple of decades, his tenure at the National being the longest.
“I’m nobody but I had a really cool job for a long time,” he says. “That experience gives people a comfort level and validates what the Augusta Wine Company is trying to do. This business is about relationships and rapport.”
Jones and his business partner, marketing expert Preston Hutto, created a business model unique to the Savannah River Region. While wine can be purchased as individual bottles in the main shop, they specialize in private procurement and have designed a locker system that allows members to order and pick up wine at their leisure. Members have an individual code allowing access from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week.
Both monthly and annual rentals are available, and due to the company’s dedication to quality (versus only expensive) wine, it can often end up being the more economical option. “I’d rather undersell the right wine than oversell the wrong wine,” notes Jones. “We believe in all the wines on our shelves. Even if you just need a $10 chardonnay and a $12 cabernet, why wouldn’t you use a locker because I’m going to get you the best $10 chardonnay or $12 cabernet available.”
Whether you’re looking to stockpile wines in preparation for an annual event, looking to further your wine education through a monthly subscription, need an individual bottle for a special occasion, or seeking expert advice for a group wine tasting, Augusta Wine Company provides the highest quality service and wine for an affordable price.
Seen in the May 2024 issue of Augusta magazine
