deVINE on Franklin

Before the shutdowns of 2020, Emily Trageser and family had already begun work on their dream. For five years, they had been dreaming of opening a wine bar in Clarksville similar to the ones they knew and loved during their time with the military in Monterey County, California. They began the long search for just the right location, the right distributor, the training they would need. They settled on 128 Franklin Street (which had been vacant for nearly 40 years) and began the long and arduous process of restoring it to its former glory.

When the world ground to a standstill due to the pandemic, construction slowed but did not stop. Materials were delayed and hard to come by. The family worked together on the restoration along with their contractor, even their children pitched in with the labor. Emily earned her Introductory Sommelier certification in August 2019 and continues her training as a wine stewart with the Court of Master Sommeliers. She has intensive training which requires passing a wine theory exam which tests knowledge of wine types and the various regions of the world from which they originate, as well as the basics of wine service and tasting. The family continued working toward their dream even as the world slowed down.

The Tragesers held their first event in November 2020 at Journey’s Eye Studio, and the level of interest in the community encouraged them to continue on their journey. Other events followed, including a wine pairing experience event in conjunction with the Roxy Regional Theater in May 2021. As the world began to reset and return to normal, work began to pick up again. Momentum was building as the family grew nearer to their goals. Finding distributors, completing paperwork for the city and state, creating menus which incorporate local foods and highlight specific wines that will be enjoyable for patrons, finding furnishings, decor and staff. Emily and her family have worked diligently to prepare for their opening, even as the world made their opening more delayed than they originally hoped.

The door of The Vine on Franklin was opened for a soft opening on March 1. On that evening and every evening since, friends and family enjoy the fruits of the Trageser’s labors with wines from around the world and small plates to accompany them. The warm and inviting atmosphere created by the owners and staff is felt from the moment you walk in the doors. The history of the beautiful building has seamlessly blended into a modern way to socialize and enjoy wine in a welcoming and lively atmosphere. There are small table sets for dining, but also many cozy conversation vignettes with soft seating for four gathered around low tables. The bar area features seating nestled around a bar which is built of the original tin ceiling tiles of the building. Downstairs there are more gathering spots, looking into the beautiful wine cellar. Every space for patrons is inviting, with warm lighting, music, and