Pour Choices: Crafting Community, One Glass at a Time

January 2, 2025

Leah and Ben, owners of Pour Choices, believe that life’s most treasured memories are born from a simple formula: good food, good drinks, and good company. With this philosophy at heart, they’ve created a space where every bottle on the shelf is handpicked to enhance your gatherings, elevate your dining experience, and inspire those cherished moments.   

Pour Choices, Charles Town’s very own boutique wine shop, opened its doors on Mother’s Day weekend in 2024. From the very beginning, this cozy yet sophisticated spot has stood out, thanks to Leah and Ben’s combined 40+ years of experience in hospitality. Leah’s passion for wine blossomed during her college years when a dining experience class turned her curiosity into expertise. From curating wine lists to mastering pairings that transform meals, her knowledge is the backbone of Pour Choices’ exceptional selection. 

What started as a modest selection of 40 wines has grown to nearly 80 carefully curated options. The thoughtfully arranged shelves guide you through the wine journey: from sparkling bubbles to refreshing whites and rosés, robust reds, and finishing with luscious, sweet and dessert wines. Not sure where to start? Pour Choices makes exploration easy with tastings every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Already a wine connoisseur but looking for something new? Their rotating selection reflects the seasons, ensuring there’s always something fresh to discover. And if a beloved bottle disappears from the shelves, no worries—Leah and Ben are more than happy to special order it just for you! 

Pour Choices isn’t just about the wine; it’s about the experience. The shop’s open-concept design ensures that everyone feels welcome, including families with kids and those navigating strollers. Kids can stay entertained drawing by the window while parents browse stress-free. The design also makes the shop the ideal venue for their monthly events, which blend wine and creativity in delightful ways. From “scrubs and bubbles” workshops to paint-and-sip nights and even cookie pairing sessions, they’ve made it their mission to turn wine tasting into a fun, memorable experience for all. 

Behind the scenes, social media has played a huge role in Pour Choices’ success. For Leah, it’s been a game-changer. Best of all, it’s free! She’s dedicated time and creativity to crafting a unique voice that perfectly blends humor and business, making every post feel fresh and relatable. From witty wine memes to lively discussions and her popular Fun Fact Friday series, Leah’s content keeps followers coming back for more. 

Leah’s journey with Pour Choices has also been a lesson in community, patience, and perseverance—wisdom she’s eager to share with fellow entrepreneurs. “Immerse yourself in the existing business community and take the time to build those relationships with fellow business owners,” she advises, reflecting on the connections she’s fostered since winning the 2024 Jumpstart Jefferson business pitch competition. Her other advice? “Don’t feel rushed into making a decision. Don’t let anyone tell you to make moves faster than you need to.” And when challenges arise, she encourages resilience: “If something doesn’t work out, that’s for a reason. Keep going. Something great is around the corner.”  

Leah and Ben’s story is a testament to the power of community, persistence, and following your passion—qualities they pour into the business every day. Be sure to swing by the shop located at 130 W Washington Street in Charles Town. Look for the witty wine-pun on the chalkboard outside and you’ll know you’re in the right place. Don’t forget to follow them on Facebook, too, for more fun and updates!