Dick Young, Paris, France
When I am not in France, I buy my French and Willamette Valley Pinot Noir and Rhone Valley Syrah from “The Wine Guy,” Mark Gambuzza.
Mark is based on the tiny, semi-tropical island of Key West, just 90 miles from Cuba.
Debbie and I have lived in Old Town Key West, only blocks from Mark’s shop, for three decades.
We see Mark, frequently, as part of our regular lunchtime foray to our favorite Key West haunt, The Thirsty Mermaid.
Mark specializes in case and half-case personal Old Town scooter delivery – a convenient door-to-door luxury service to be sure.
I have talked with Mark about wine so much over the years that I now trust him to bring me the best of his latest arrivals, all in the moderate 12.5% –13.5% alcohol range that works best with Pinot Noir and Syrah.
By way of introduction, I have asked Mark to write up a strictly “self-serving” post on himself so that I could better introduce his unique wine program to our horde of thirsty, warm weather loving aficionados.
A votre santé,
Dick
Mark’s Letter
My name is Mark Gambuzza, and I own Uva Wine Shoppe in Old Town, Key West. I also run a Business Group called Mom and Pop Businesses of Key West. I am a proud capitalist who believes that (you) can run a business and have a positive impact on both the community and the environment.
I carry a wonderful selection of smaller produced wine from around the world. I focus mainly is on wines that have been produced using organic and biodynamic viniculture methods.
I also have a small bar in my establishment, where I rotate a selection of wines not usually poured in most places.
Through my business and the fellow businesses in my group, we try to promote a community that highlights the “real” Key West. Our Southernmost City is an amazing community steeped in history, culture, art and amazing architecture.
I have great pride in having a positive influence on my community through my involvement in causes that support KW residents in sustaining a healthy economy and environment.
When in Key West, I invite you to stop by,
Mark Gambuzza
Uva Wine Shoppe and Bar
519 Fleming Street
305-735-4871
Uvakeywest.com
