Food & Drink
A Small Peachtree Corners Business Making Big Waves Among Wine Enthusiasts
Grbinich Wines has been thriving in Peachtree Corners since 2019, serving over 50 accounts primarily in Gwinnett County with others in North Fulton, Cobb and DeKalb. Margo Grbinich-Hunt began the business after a successful career in the medical field as the owner of Sunrise Health Management.
She had retired and was “enjoying life” when her travels started her on a new path.
Returning to her roots: Živjeli! (Croatian for Cheers!)
Though her father spoke Serbo-Croatian fluently, the career Army officer focused on becoming all-American, putting his family heritage on the backburner in favor of assimilating. Curious about her European roots, Grbinich travelled to Donja Kupčina, her father’s birthplace, as an adult, in search of the long-lost relatives she’d always heard of.
While she delighted in connecting with her paternal kinfolk and soaking up the beauty of Croatia, she was struck by the phenomenal natural resource in their grape cultivation and the world-class wines they produce. She emerged a wine adventurer.
“A big part of my vacation was spent enjoying the wines and varietals throughout the country. When I came back to Atlanta, it was disappointing that wine boutiques didn’t carry wines from the Balkans,” she shared.
Seemingly, the rest of the world began to discover Croatia’s charm with its 1,104-mile-long coast lapped by the crystal waters of the Adriatic Sea, just as Grbinich did. Today, several Croatian ports are popular tourist destinations. Grbinich was drawn to the picturesque, central-southeastern European country and the warmth of its people who remain grateful for America’s support during the Balkan war of the 1990s.
Encore career: the birth of a wine diva
A few more trips and sips and Grbinich delved deeper into the world of Balkan wine production. Unique terroirs and microclimates characterize the diverse wine regions of Croatia.
The northernmost Istrian peninsula produces modern whites and rich reds. The islands and mountains of Dalmatia gifted the world with high quality white and red wines from vines growing on treacherous slopes, as well as the dignified Dalmatian dog breed.
Inland Slavonia’s continental climate and fertile soil produce light, crisp, mildly aromatic white wines. The island of Krk is known for its dry white wines and domestic reds. Hvar produces fruity whites and bold reds.
Once she discovered this hole in the American wine scene and realized there was fun to be had in the world of wine distribution, her second career was born.
“I’ve always had a lot of business acumen. I love starting businesses, realizing where there are certain market niches to fill. I went from one type of medicine to another, in some respects,” Grbinich chuckled.
Grbinich Wine’s small, efficient staff covers sales, operations, deliveries, bookkeeping and advertising. The company seeks to satisfy retailers with the right price point and products for whatever customers request.
Building relationships
Though Grbinich holds a license to import international wines herself, this lady boss prefers to work closely with local importers concentrating on distribution to restaurants, wine boutiques, liquor stores and specialty European markets. Her product line has expanded to reflect the multicultural city of Atlanta and diverse communities like Gwinnett County.
Today, Grbinich is the largest distributor of Romanian wines in Atlanta. Wines from the Republic of Georgia, located at the intersection of Eastern Europe and West Asia, make up her second largest product by volume. Croatian wines comprise her third largest-selling category.
Curiosity and attentive customer service have Grbinich branching out to carry wines from all over the world, in addition to those from former Yugoslavia that started it all. The wines and spirits she stocks from other Balkan countries include products from Bulgaria, Bosnia, Serbia, Moldova and Ukraine. Vendors also demand wines from France, Italy, Turkey and South America.
In-person meetings keep Grbinich abreast of her customers’ needs. She relishes guiding them in their buying choices and customizing inventory to satisfy them. Hosting educational events and tastings on site or in her warehouse tasting room also proves to be beneficial for her retailers.
The price point of Grbinich Wines is approachable, with bottles retailing from $10 to $40.
“I try to purchase wines that are reasonable, especially in today’s economic climate. People are buying down. They want a fine Cabernet but instead of spending $30 for a bottle, they’re looking to spend $15 to $20,” Grbinich added.
Tastings
When it comes to wine degustation to familiarize customers with her exclusive products, Grbinich recommends a maximum of six: a mix of whites, rosés and reds.
“Everything will taste good after the sixth one, including Boone’s Farm,” she laughed.
Or one might choose to do a tasting of all reds, all whites or all dessert wines. “It’s easier for consumers to notice variations within one kind,” she said.
Training your palate to identify different notes of a wine, flavors and spices, is comparable to training your ear to hear different notes when you’re playing an instrument, according to Grbinich.
“Once you start on that journey, it’s really fascinating,” she smiled.
Don’t balk at trying Balkan Wines
You’ve never heard of Balkan wines? All the more reason to try them! With 2,500 years of wine production history, vehement vintners who’ve been perfecting their craft for centuries, taking great pride in maintaining European winemaking traditions and countless indigenous grape varieties, one would be amiss not to try these wines.
Whether you’re a wine aficionado or someone who appreciates an occasional glass with a nice meal, it would be a shame to limit your exposure to just a select few grape varietals commonly appreciated in the United States.
“You could probably name on one hand each of the reds and whites we customarily enjoy. In Europe, there are dozens of grape varietals that I was totally unfamiliar with and yet they’re so delicious, refreshing and pure,” Grbinich expounded.
Also worth highlighting are the health benefits of more organic, natural wines from small-scale, family-based European viniculture prioritizing a love of the land, immediate consumption and enjoyment of the fruits of the earth as they are harvested.
In contrast, millions of barrels of one varietal mass-produced in the United States necessitate manipulation and not-so-natural processes to preserve the wine.
Besides those seeking wines from their homelands, more and more Atlantans and residents of surrounding areas are craving something new.
Grbinich describes Atlanta as a “wine city,” evidenced by an explosion of wine boutiques. Coaxing people into testing their comfort zones and trying new vinos is Grbinich’s mission, “Life is too short to get stuck on one or two favorites!”
Difficult to say, delicious to drink
The most beloved red wine along the Adriatic Coast comes from a grape called Plavac Mali which is genetically linked to Zinfandel. Zinfandel, known as Tribidrag in Croatia, is thought to be a California born grape. However, it was introduced to California during the Gold Rush in the 1850s from Croatia.
Plavac Mali is known for producing flavorful, deep red wines ranging from medium to full-bodied, high in tannins, alcohol content and minerality resulting from rocky, coastal growing conditions. Its characteristic aromas span from sour cherry, red plum, licorice and spices to figs and dark berries.
If you like Zinfandel, you’ll love Dingac Plavac Mali, available upon request by retailers. Although most Croatian wines aren’t meant to be aged, Plavac Mali ages well.
Ukrainians make an incredible Cabernet: Stefania Cabernet Sauvignon. Find it at Buford Farmers Market. It’s full-bodied, aromatic and affordable.
Sauvignon Blanc fans would love fruity, Malvazija with its surprising floral aroma. Ask for Vina Laguna Malvasia from the Istrian peninsula at Corners Fine Wine and Spirits in Peachtree Corners.
Grbinich’s newest Piazza Mistrichi Italian Proseccos are coming soon to Italian restaurants with impeccable taste near you!
Do you fancy German pilsners? Try Romania’s Timișoreana, a golden, well-balanced lager with hop aroma dating back to 1718. Tower Beer, Wine & Spirits in Doraville carries it.
The stylishly packaged Hafner Premium X.O. brandy from Austria with notes of dark vanilla, caramel, molasses and a hint of tobacco is kosher, organic and vegan.
Break the rules and pick a wine you like! “If you want a red with your trout, that’s fine! If you want a nice white with a steak, it doesn’t matter. It’s your money,” Grbinich stated.
Cork or cap?
Nothing can replicate the ceremonial uncorking of a bottle of wine nor the popping perfection of that celebratory sound but contrary to popular belief, a cork doesn’t necessarily denote a higher quality bottle of wine, according to Grbinich, who carries both cork and screw cap bottles. In fact, since corks are porous, they can invite spoilage.
A twist top doesn’t require special equipment to open, so Grbinich finds them less intimidating. Plus, transporting an opened bottle is easier with a cap. Wineries are turning to screw caps and looking to make them more environmentally friendly.
Hobby to hustle
Grbinich’s formation included frequenting a number of wine schools to train her palate. Broadening her own knowledge of wines better enables her to guide others in enjoying them without insecurities. You don’t have to be a cork dork or understand the complex science behind winemaking in Grbinich’s view — it’s fine to simply enjoy it!
If you’ve been to or near the Forum in the past few months, you’ve probably noticed cranes and construction crews. The anticipation of the first phase of renovation of the 22-year-old retail center has left a lot of Peachtree Corners residents as well as nearby patrons excited to see changes.
The Forum administration invited the media for a hard hat tour on July 17. The event showcased the redevelopment progress ahead of The Plaza’s grand opening on Aug. 8.
Scrumptious bites incoming
Executives from the development and leasing teams joined on-site management and led attendees around the new central gathering space, guest amenities and Politan Row, the newly created 10,000-square-foot food hall.
Dining concepts from veterans at Sheesh, Twenty-Six Thai and newbie Gekko Kitchen were the first food vendors announced for the space, which is expected to open in January.
“We can’t wait to introduce the Peachtree Corners community to our food hall experience,” said Politan Group CEO Will Donaldson in a news release. “Every detail from the design to the bar program to the cuisine is thoughtfully curated to inspire guests to not only mingle with one another but to connect with our incredible restaurateurs and discover new favorites.”
During the tour, Donaldson explained that eventually there will be seven different global cuisines in the Politan Row food court at the Forum featuring well-known and up-and-coming local talent. Once complete there will be a central bar, a private event venue and a covered outdoor patio.
“One of the things that we’re excited about is this unique design that we’ve come up with, that’s very specific to this area,” he said. “We’ll be open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Whether you’re with a group for lunch or with your family, it works great for multiple settings.”
Twenty-six Thai owner Niki Pattharakositkul said the restaurant will work with local vendors to source the freshest meats and produce possible.
“There are certain types of produce and protein we try to source locally, but sauces and the more exotic produce and herbs, we have to import from Thailand,” she said. “Our brand is trying to move towards doing things locally and sustainably.”
Working with organizations such as Georgia Grown limits the use of large food distribution companies. Since starting Twenty-six Thai in 2016, Pattharakositkul has launched seven locations across metro Atlanta, including at Politan Row’s Ashford Lane and Colony Square.
The eatery describes itself as an “authentic wok-fired Southeast Asia-inspired menu featuring items such as pad Thai, pad see ewe and classic drunken noodles.”
Sheesh, a Mediterranean concept that uses simple, wholesome ingredients prepared with unique spices and blends, is run by corporate executive chef Charlie Sunyapong and director of operations Raquel Stalcup. The two are also members of the group behind full-service restaurants Stäge at Town Center and Pêche at the Forum.
The popularity of those suburban concepts has already taken off. With Sheesh, they’re looking to do something different.
“There are going to be some things that are unique to Sheesh that you’re not going to get at the other places,” said Sunyapong. “You’re not getting a whole restaurant; this is quicker fare.”
Gekko Kitchen, a former food truck transformed into a hibachi and ramen experience, will be serving fresh, fast bowls that are more colorful and lighter than traditional hibachi fare.
Gathering spots
Development Manager Nick Lombardo explained that NAP is moving away from building big construction projects from scratch like Colony Square in Midtown Atlanta and Avalon in Alpharetta.
“As a company, North American Properties pivoted around 2020 from building big ground-up construction to more redevelopment with already existing properties,” he said. “With the thought of great assets that just need a little more attention Infused into them to create value, we bought the Forum in 2022.”
He said that value-add propositions done at The Forum will create a more walkable center.
“Trying to compete with the internet on convenience is a very tough task, so the way we differentiate is by experiences,” he said. “We host between 150 to 200 events every year. We have things like concerts, wellness and fitness events and we have child playtime events. Our marketing team does a great job and they’re the differentiator when it comes to what makes our property stand out.”
By the first week of August, a large gathering space will be unveiled in the central area of the property between Pottery Barn and seafood restaurant Pêche. It will have a nine-foot LED screen capable of hosting movie nights and sports viewing. There will also be musical performances featuring local artists.
“We’re not in competition with Town Center,” said Charlotte Hinton, marketing manager at The Forum. “Town Center has gates like a real music festival and we’re more like a ‘chill and enjoy the music’ vibe where you can grab a beer and hang out or maybe kind of walk around.”
The smaller space and artificial turf are unlike the Town Center space where attendees spread blankets and bring chairs. The Forum will have furniture and seating in the space so folks can just gather and either enjoy time with family or partake in events.
The Forum will also offer valet parking on a limited schedule at that end of the property.
More improvements
Although the construction equipment will have moved out, the jewel box building will house a yet-to-be-named restaurant that will open early next year.
“We’re pretty much done with what we’re doing as far as landlord work,” said Lombardo. “We ask our tenants to bring their brand and their design and their material pallet and put that on the building to express their brand identity. They know their brand better than we do. They know how to best design their building and how it functions and works.”
It’s the same process with retail stores, he added.
“We always ask all of our new tenants to come in here when they’re building their storefront,” he said. “They’re not just selling their clothes; they’re selling a lifestyle in the brand so we ask them to push their brand out to the street.”
Even with the new spaces, there will be no shortage of parking, Lombardo added. “There’s plenty of parking behind these buildings,” he said pointing toward Pêche. “What we’ve done is enhance the connectivity to those areas. We’ve redone this breezeway and we’re adding lighting and connecting the parking lot to the main boulevard here. The goal is to replace cars with people and activity and bring a sense of community to the property.”
The Taste of Peachtree Corners has been in the works for years, but the COVID-19 pandemic put many key events on hold for the Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA).
But luckily this year, the dedicated staff of volunteers successfully executed a memorable event and introduced a lot of local business owners to their neighboring restaurants and caterers.
As I walked up to the Community Chest Room at Peachtree Corners City Hall on June 27, there was a line outside the door. I later found out that over 100 people had registered to attend the event. I got checked in quickly and was faced with a “passport” of 10 Peachtree Corners restaurants serving everything from high-end bakery items to good old-fashioned barbecue, and modern twists on seafood and American cuisines.
Let’s talk about the food
The idea was to visit all 10 restaurants and collect stars while trying samples and small plates. My first stop was Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, and they had my favorite – homemade chips and queso. The queso was smoky and mildly spicy with a great depth of flavor. What a great start. Next up was Chopt. Creative Salad Co. I had never heard of this restaurant before, but they blew me away with a perfect amuse-bouche of cherry tomato, pesto, mozzarella, and olive oil. These guys understand simple and fresh Mediterranean flavors.
The folks from Marlow’s Tavern were also on-site serving shrimp and grits with jalapeno, spinach and tomato beurre blanc. This is definitely the style of elevated food I’ve come to expect from Marlow’s. And as a nice touch, they prepared a refreshing blueberry cocktail.
Another familiar face was set up on the other side of the room. J.R.’s Log House Restaurant served southern favorites like pulled pork sliders, baked beans and mac n’ cheese. I couldn’t pass this one up. The pulled pork was tender, tangy and saucy. Exactly what I want from a barbecue. Lazy Dog’s table really impressed me with its presentation. The tuna cup with rice, avocado and chili with chips on the side, was a real stunner.
Moe’s Southwest Grill was also on-site handing out tasty tequila lime chicken with rice, avocado, and black beans. This super hearty and comforting entrée was followed by a seafood course from PECHE Modern Coastal. Crab cakes with a croissant pinwheel, roasted garlic and lemon aioli and arugula were on the menu and the flavor combinations were simply fantastic.
PECHE’s sister restaurant STAGE Kitchen & Bar was next door offering a tuna and salmon tostada with avocado, eel sauce, spicy mayo, and cilantro. This was easily one of my favorite bites of the night. The tostada was crunchy and light with clean and bright flavors. No kidding, I could probably eat this every day for lunch.
I moved on the Smoke’s Family Catering and owner Phillip Smoke had whipped up enough barbecue to feed an army. I had the pleasure of trying the smoked chicken with potato salad and it was the perfect pairing. Last but not least: dessert. I capped off the evening with a beautiful chocolate ganache-filled croissant with perfect lamination and flaky texture.
The inspiration behind the event
With a (very) full stomach, I caught up with PCBA President Lisa Proctor to talk about the event.
“We knew that COVID was really hard on a lot of our restaurants to get people back in,” said Proctor. “We wanted to do it in June because we wanted to celebrate our military. Everybody remembers them maybe on Memorial Day or different things, but June is the 80th anniversary of D-Day.”
“The military is always close to our heart,” she added. “We’re also very proud of our restaurants. They all have gone above and beyond.”
Tonight, the PCBA was honoring the Armed Forces and its brave veterans while bestowing two donation checks to very worthy causes.
The first check for $500 went to Folds of Honor. Since 2007, Folds of Honor has provided life-changing scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled military. And now, their mission expands to the families of America’s first responders.
The second check for $500 was given to Light Up the Corners, a 501(c)(3) volunteer organization with an annual glowing, flashing, blinking, shining, nighttime running party and fundraiser in one. All proceeds from the event go to benefit less fortunate children and families in the Peachtree Corners community who are struggling by giving them the chance to participate in life-enhancing programs and activities at the Fowler YMCA.
Over the past 12 years, the PCBA has awarded 19 scholarships and donated more than $156,000+ back to the Peachtree Corners community.
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