Jeff Durbin
The Twisted Vine
3530 N. Halsted Street
How long have you owned The Twisted Vine?
We are coming up on our third anniversary in May. Before we became The Twisted Vine, we were a retail store called The Gourmet Grape in the same location for ten years. In total, we have been in business for 13 years.
What made you want to switch from a retail shop to a bar?
It was customer driven. A lot of customers were asking me to sell wine by the glass, so after ten years doing retail, I decided it was time for a change! We didn’t have a wine bar in the neighborhood, especially one with a piano and live music. I thought it would be a great addition to the neighborhood
How long have you been in the wine industry?
I started drinking wine in my early twenties, and loved it ever since. Going to Napa Valley and experiencing the wine country, I just fell in love with it. When I decided to open my store, I knew I was going to sell wine. Now as a bar owner, wine is still the foundation of my business.
What is something The Twisted Vine does that is unique?
I think we have one of the best whisky selections in the City; we carry over 135 different types of whisky. Also, we are a service style bar, and strive to have the best customer service we possibly can.
What is your favorite kind of wine to drink?
I love a hardy Cabernet Sauvignon!
How long have you been part of the Northalsted Business Alliance?
I have been part of The Alliance for all 13 years. I think neighborhood organizations are always great to be a part of. I sat on the Board for a number of years as well, and I think they do great things for the neighborhood.
What would you like to see in the future for Boystown?
Physically, I would like to keep seeing the beautification of our neighborhood. I would love to see hanging planters along the entire street, to create beautiful and welcoming spaces to our customers. I think we are in a good place right now, but there is always room for improvement. As a community, I would like us to continue working with other communities throughout Chicago to create strong partnerships to promote change.
What does Pride mean to you?
I think being proud is just being who you are, it comes from the inside. To me, it means being a respectful citizen, taking care of others, and helping out your community. There is a great sense of pride that can be accomplished by working together with everyone toward common goal.
What is something people would never guess about you?
A lot of things! Before The Twisted Vine, I had many different careers. I was a licensed barber for a while, and I was also a flight attendant.
