Today we’d like to introduce you to Niko Patel.
Hi Niko, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have been in Alc industry for over 25 years. Started (1998) in small liquor store where Boosted revenues from an initial $600,000 in sales per year up to several million dollars annually Scaled operations, resizing the establishment from 3,000 sq. ft. to 15,000 sq. ft. to handle additional inventory Helped the store garner attention as one of the finest liquor stores in the area in terms of election Built relations with distributors and negotiated deals much more profitable than the then industry standard Stocked high inventory percentages of wine alongside liquor, profiting from the technique before it became standard.
Started the first fine wine retail store (2008) in Snellville from scratch, working with legislators to benefit local businesses and citizens Survived the 2008‑2009 economy and drove initial revenues of $30,000 up by more than 200% over the first years
Developed a far‑reaching network of business connections, aiding in augmenting inventory with exclusive products Built expertise in tasting and pairing wines to accurately recommend wines based on consumer preferences Maintained terrific relations through a focused client experience, generating a loyal customer base Generated consumer interest as a hotspot for exotic wines and quality service within a 50‑mile radius Became the first Georgia‑based, Napa‑sourced wine maker, and
sold the eponymous label exclusively in‑store.
Set up a second location (2010) from scratch two years after opening the first, again as the only fine wine retail store in town
Was known as a highlight of the downtown Lawrenceville area Attracted many customers who frequented the location due to its warm, sociable environment alongside the selection Served to generate interest in a broader area, with customers
continuing to visit the Snellville location after closure.
Open third location , from scratch again (2025) in downtown Duluth and made the place almost destination location with the unique setup of wine bar and retail, having more selection of fine wine by the glass and for retail then anyone in the city. Offering weekly tasting to educate and expand people’s taste on fine wines…
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Struggle was always I offered more than people used to or expected in the area. If I had opened these stores in Buckhead or some better part of Atlanta I would have done much better since people are more open to new ideas and ready to explore more.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Niko’s Wine Cellar?
Welcome to Niko’s Wine Cellar- Your Neighborhood’s Living Room for Wine Lovers.
With over 3,000 carefully curated labels from every corner of the world, our shelves tell the stories of winemakers big and small. Whether you’re discovering a new favorite or revisiting a timeless classic, our knowledgeable, friendly staff are here to guide you- no pretense, just passion. Settle in at the bar, share a glass with neighbors, and feel right at home. Stop by for our affordable weekly wine tastings or explore at your own pace with 28 rotating wines in our self-serve dispensers- a perfect way to sip, sample, and find what you love.
At Niko’s Wine Cellar, wine isn’t just poured- it’s shared.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Happy, satisfied, and returning customers who spread the word and bring their friends. Achieving steady sales growth while building strong ever lasting customer relationships. I’ve been in this business for more than 25 years and lot of them are still in contact for all these years.
Pricing:
- We carry products in all price range. From everyday $10+ to as much you want to spend on collectible wines at $$$$$
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nikoswinecellar.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikoswinecellar/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Nikos-Wine-Cellar-61575874569763/
