A NEW wine bar, themed with a "vintage European" feel that opened in Ilminster in June has been met with a positive response from the community.
'Vine' at The Millhouse opened on the outskirts of Ilminster in June.
Owner and creator, 48-year-old Esther Lawrence from Stoke-sub-Hamdon, said her wish had been granted when she opened her very own wine bar in the area.
According to Esther, the journey started when she discovered her "true love of wine" and wanted to bring something new to the area.
READ MORE: 'It's too good an opportunity to miss': New cafe opens its doors in Ilminster
She said: "I always wanted to have my own wine bar.
"[It has] been a bit mad, but I always wanted to see if I could do it and create that community.
"It’s been frightening because I have three children, [but] it’s also been nice because you are your own boss."
"I love wine. I did do a little bit of work as a wine tour host. What I really want to do is bring English sparkling wine to more people."
Esther hosted her very first wine-tasting event three weeks ago, where she showcased British sparkling wines to her customers. For more information, contact vine.themillhouse@gmail.com or themillhouseilminster@gmail.com.
The business is "gradually growing" and Esther is hopeful for the winter months when she feels her cosy bar will be the perfect setting for small gatherings.
She said: "Most people my age want to go somewhere for a nice drink where you won’t be interrupted and have a nice chat.
"I think winter will be the turning point."
Although Esther described progress as "slow", she has been pleasantly surprised by the cocktail and conversation seekers, including Ilminster walking groups and travellers seeking a rest after coming along the A303.
She said: "You never know who is going to turn up. That’s what I like.
"I like to meet people, I like to look after people, make sure they’ve got what they need."
The Millhouse businesses, including Esther's bar, are hosting a pizza event all day on Saturday, August 30, with food served from 6pm to 8pm to further foster community connection.
Similarly, every second and fourth Friday of the month from 7pm to 11pm, there are live music performances.
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