Tastemaker Eryn Thomas
WHERE TO FIND HER: Bartending, serving, and coordinating special events at Primitivo Wine Bistro, where she has worked for five years.
WHY SHE LIKES IT: The staff. No one is snobby about wine and we always find a way to make it fun. We don’t want people to be intimidated by wine. The staff has great chemistry and patrons comment on it all the time.
ADVICE FOR NEWBIES: Don’t be afraid to say what you like, “It’s just fancy grape juice.”
WHAT MAKES PRIMITIVO UNIQUE: We don’t carry big names. We focus on hard to find, boutique wineries, and international producers from regions as diverse as China, Urugauy, Greece, France, and Spain.
THE LATEST TREND AT THE BAR: Primitivo offers two pour sizes – a 2.5 ounce pour and a 5 ounce pour. It lets customers try a number of different wines with each meal.
ON WINE COCKTAILS: Sangria is one of the most popular options at Primitivo. “It’s fruity and fun,” she notes in reference to the success of Sangria Sundays. “We even pour wine over Coke, it’s called a calimocha.”
THE BACKUP CAREER: Eryn has found her niche in the event planning she does for Primitivo. “Probably something along those lines.”
BEST CUSTOMER COMPLIMENT: “They request to sit in my section.”
WHAT SHE’S DRINKING NOW: La Grola by Allegrini is a blend which runs the gamut of flavors. The terrific tobacco and an earthy finish are notable characteristics. And, champagne of course.
PERFECT DAY OFF: Simple. The beach. Wine. Snacks. Swimming. Repeat. Oh, and the Steelers win the Superbowl.
