Blog

Jul 25, 2023

Work continues at Michigan Wine and Beer Portal; events scheduled

Construction continues on the Michigan Wine and Beer Portal, but some events

Construction continues on the Michigan Wine and Beer Portal, but some events have been set.

The business is under construction inside the River Raisin Banquet Center, 8 N. Monroe St. Both businesses are owned by Monroe's Bentley family.

Drew Bentley, sommelier, runs the Michigan Wine and Beer Portal.

"The Portal is not currently open for regular hours. Our goal is to be open for regular hours starting in the late spring or early summer of this year," Bentley said. "The construction is going well, although it always seems to take longer than we want."

So far, the floors and ceilings have been finished, light fixtures and ceiling fans were hung, wine shelves were installed and the bar front is finished.

"This week the plumbers are here finishing the rough-in plumbing for the bathrooms, and the electricians are finishing the rough-in for the entire space. Slowly but surely we are getting closer," Bentley said.

Last spring, Bentley announced plans to build the Portal.

Fundraisers for community organizations, as well as a Prohibition presentation, have taken place at the venue so far. The first pre-opening event was held in October.

Up next is a "Perfectly Paired Wine Dinner," featuring sommelier Kim Simecek from Shady Lane Cellars and Chef Mike Lyons. The event will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. April 28. Tickets are now on sale for the five-course meal.

"I am personally super excited about it," Bentley said.

A murder mystery dinner series is planned for the summer.

The Michigan Wine and Beer Portal is expected to be an indoor and outdoor complex, offering a sommelier-run wine bar, chef-prepared food, a gift shop, an ice cream shop and riverfront seating.

Bentley has been working on the concept for years and has taken sommelier classes.

On the Net: Find Michigan Wine and Beer Portal on Facebook.