T&T: We understand that your partnership is a close collaborative effort between three people who were destined to meet. Please tell us more!
AR: We are continually amazed at the chain of events that led us to this day. It really reads like a novel! All three of us bring a diversity of skill sets and talents to our business, yet we share the same value of a strong work ethic, integrity, and leadership.
EA: Having an eye for detail, being healthy minded, and staying physically active are traits that all three of us share, along with high energy, lots of laughter, and positivity. We’re perfectly balanced, like the time 11:11, which makes the winery name the perfect choice.
T&T: What prompted you to seek out the renowned Kirk Venge as your winemaker, and what characteristics is he bringing to your wines?
EA: Actually, Aurelien already knew Kirk. They unexpectedly reconnected at an event where Kirk expressed interest in our buisness venture. This prompted a lunch between the three of us, where, by the time we were through, the decision had been made to make wine together. Kirk brings a strong knowledge of viticulture and focuses on the vineyard first.
AR: Kirk contends that the winemaker has to start with consideration of the wine from every angle. He treats wine like a slow food, utilizing gravity and low impact techniques. This yields the types of wines we’re going for: soft, packed with fruit, and no flaws.
T&T: You’ve created an exceptional tasting room venue. What is your vision for guest experiences?
AR: We strive to have our guests feel like they’re in their own homes with comfortable, warm, and elegant
décor and enchanting music. Aesthetically, we combine rustic charm and sleek urban curves and nuances, like the round bar, designed to reflect the Eleven Eleven symbol.
EA:When entering our tasting room, guests are welcomed warmly with a splash of Rosé of Syrah. We’ve created various tasting experience areas for them to make their Eleven Eleven moment. We celebrate the culture of wine, food, art, and entertainment unique to the Eleven Eleven experience. And our guests keep returning for more.