The Social Cork
Wine Bar
About us
The Social Cork Wine Bar was founded by Jay and Melony Speelman. Born out of the pursuit of leaving corporate life and building a dream of our own, we agreed to begin a small business venture.
We were born and raised in Brooklyn and Long Island, New York, and have lived in South Carolina for 14 years. Our precious daughter, Julianna is 16 years old, and will be working at TSCWB.
We are often asked, "Why a wine bar?"
The following quote encapsulates our answer to "why"
"Even though I know how to use a smart phone, I'd still rather go dancing than watch television, and I find nothing more satisfying than singing with my friends next to a fire. We are here so briefly that missing a single opportunity to connect with people seems a crime. That's why we drink wine- it softens the hardness of the day, and loosens our tongues so that we may confide in a friend, share the day's event with a spouse, or sparkle with a lover over a romantic dinner. This is why we are alive-to be together." - Celia Ramsay
We want to bring people together in a place where ALL are welcome. We have asked God to use us as a vessel to build strong community, fellowship, and lasting relationships. All that walk through TSCWB doors are friends. Ms. Ramsay's quote on wine will be framed and affixed to the wall at TSCWB to serve as a reminder to never miss a moment to connect with someone, and enjoy one another's company.
Welcome to our Newsletter
We're so glad you're here!
The Current Environment
Here we are, York County, SC & Charlotte. A little past the halfway mark of 2024. A Presidential election year is upon us and, along with it, the divisive rhetoric between two people with different visions for America's future. Then, of course, we the people arguing among each other creating tension and division. Will it be Trump? Kamala? Then, of course, the labels of division to add to the mix.
No matter what side one may fall on, the system is built in a way to divide us-- inadvertently. Add to that the stress of our careers, be it deadlines, the workplace "prick," longwinded meetings about nothing while the workload is piling up, etc., family drama, medical issues, money problems, and the list goes on.
Just across the border of Charlotte, a Fort Mill, S.C small business called "The Social Cork Wine Bar" has a mission all about community. Within this establishment, hanging on their wall, is a quote by winemaker Celia Ramsay: "We are here so briefly that missing a single opportunity to connect with people seems a crime. That's why we drink wine--it softens the hardness of the day, and loosens our tongues, so that we may confide in a friend, share the day's event with a spouse, or sparkle with a lover over a romantic dinner. This is why we are alive--to be together."
This orange-walled, petite establishment is typical of a New York style wine bar. The owners, Melony and Jay Speelman, are from Brooklyn and Long Island. New York. They take Ramsay's approach in connecting with people to heart. TSCWB has been referred to by regular patrons of the establishment as "the Cheers of the south" because "everybody knows your name." The ambiance promotes a tranquil environment.
TSCWB offers artisanal wines from small family-owned vineyards, organically and sustainably grown, with no dyes or fillers. They are quality and affordable wines not found on shelves in retail establishments. Cocktails are popular in this establishment as well. Want your Old Fashion smoked? Expresso Martini anyone? Margaritas? And, of course, a variety of beers.
The food menu is delicious. Dessert menu's Fondue made Charlotte Observer's Top 10 list. They are also known for hosting a wide range of popular events ranging from wine tastings with winemakers from all over the world, to live music, comedy and murder mystery nights, BBQ and cook outs, Bourbon tastings, painting and drawing classes, Salsa dancing and much more.
Have you forgot the tension and chaos of the election yet? Great, come on in to meet the many friends of The Social Cork Wine Bar (www.thesocialcorkwinebar.com).