It's always exciting to hear about a business start up. Even more so when it's a true brick and mortar experience. I was introduced to Patti Robertson and Mike Meyer by my banker, Nick Burghardt of Chase Bank during his branch open house. Mike and Patti have put in intense effort these last few months to fulfill a dream decades in the making. Tonight the dream becomes a reality with the grand opening of Simpatico Wines. Located at 722 Pasadena Avenue So., South Pasadena, FL 33707. During a recent visit, Mike shared the philosophy behind the dream.

"Our philosophy is to sell high-quality wines at a fair price. We also desire to create a pleasant wine-themed shopping experience for our customers. I could tell you that we taste everything we sell – I wish this were so! In reality, we taste about 90 percent of our wines (a tough job, I know). We love our customers, and want you to have the very best wines to select from! The rest of our cellar selections are chosen on the reputations of the winemaker and vineyard.

I'm looking forward to celebrating the successful launch of the American Dream. Congratulations Mike and Patti! Won't you join us?