Grand Cata (1550 Seventh St. NW) offers an escape into the wines and flavors of South American in the Shaw neighborhood. Co-Founder and President of Grand Cata Julio Robledo said that it is “definitely more than a wine store.” Featured are imported dry goods, fresh produce, a gourmet deli and a selection of beers in addition to an extensive array of wines.
Robledo met co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Pedro Rodriguez in 2009 while the pair were working together for a media development non-governmental agency (NGO) in the District. Drawing on their mutual passion for food and wine as well as their shared heritage, the two decided to develop their own Latino wine company.
Robledo said that while the District boasts a large variety of wine stores, until Grand Cata opened there were not many that featured South American wines. The pair hopes that Washingtonians can travel to these regions through the food and wine, experiencing the culture from their own neighborhood.
Robledo said they have been overwhelmed by the support of District residents and said they are excited to continue to share the culture of South America with the community.
Grand Cata also offers a wine club that showcases wines from Latin America and what the owners call the “heritage nations” of Spain, Portugal and Italy. Subscriptions start at $40 per month and include two bottles of hand selected wine.
You can learn more about Grand Cata on their website (grandcata.com). Visit them at their flagship location in Shaw, open Monday through Sunday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. or in Union Market, open Sunday and Tuesday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday 11 a.m.
