Episode 7 - Devin Davis of New York talks Essential Retail Work

Devin Davis lives and works in Manhattan, New York City, going between his home in Harlem and the wine shops he has worked in downtown.  Devin and host Michael Whidden have known each other for approximately six years, going back to when Michael started working with one of Devin's shops.

Learn about one of NYC’s essential workers who...from receiving, storing and stocking to greeting, advising and processing...made sure that everyone got their bottles of wine during the pandemic.  He’s happy to have found his “tribe” in the wine community. 

Devin talks about his transition from working at a warehouse (unrelated to wine) into the wine trade.  Guess how long it takes him to move a delivery of 1,200 bottles (100 cases) of wine from the main floor down to the shop cellar. Devin shares his journey of discovery and his affection for Riesling, Bordeaux and natural wines. His dream food/wine pairing will likely surprise many (unless they’re in the trade themselves).

His experience working during the pandemic, even during the most ominous days, is not what you’d expect.  Devin offers thoughts on how to identify a wine shop worthy of your business...and it has nothing to do with the bottles on the shelves.  He also discusses the importance of curiosity and honesty in customer relations.

Devin finds hope in his friends, family and relationships.  Indeed, simply being out in the city, talking and dealing with people from all over gives him hope and contradicts the negativity of news and social media. He concludes saying life may not be perfect but there’s a lot we can enjoy in life and we just need to keep pushing through.