SML Fine Wines | Ryan McFeely

A shop.

One that showcases wines from around the world with a sense of presence - and place.

A collection of vintages shaped fully by the terroir in which they are grown… not by the demands of mass production.

That dream is what Ryan McFeely recently brought to life in the form of SML Fine Wines - located in Westlake Village. But the seed of that dream was planted in young Ryan many years before as a fine dining waiter in Baltimore. He climbed his way up through the ranks to Maitre d'Hotel and credits much of his success to Head Chef Cindy Wolf. She, and business partner Tony Foreman, observed his interest and aptitude for the finer details of the service industry, and took him under their wing. Amazing opportunities to further his education through wine selection trips with the business duo introduced him to the concept that was to become his passion: not simply knowing a wine, but knowing the people, the history, and the very soil from whence it came.

His own path of exploration eventually grew into his serving as an educational guide for others who were on their own oenophile journeys.

As life went on, Ryan moved down to Florida and shifted focus from restaurant service to the distribution side of the industry. During this phase of his career, he was thrilled to be able to study under one of the few female Master Sommeliers in America: Laura DePasquale. He began gaining his footing in the business world of wine there, little knowing that just around the corner lay a chance to open his own shop which would utilize both halves of his career so perfectly.

In 2023, Ryan and his family relocated to Virginia.

The draw of generational roots, a rich community life, educational opportunities, and room for their children to grow up in a rural setting landed them here at SML. Moving to a new area also seemed like the right time to make the leap into business ownership.

When asked about the shop, Ryan lights up over all that he plans to offer to the community! Regular Friday afternoon tastings, educational classes in the intimate living-room-esque learning area (which will be capped at eight participants to ensure a rich experience for all), and local delivery are just a few of the things he hopes to add before the end of the year.

I was curious if there was a new trend that he is particularly excited about, and his reply was that "Grower's Champagne" is a genre of wine that has only recently become more accessible to us here in the US. He's excited to share this outside-your-typical-mainstream-bubbly experience with his customers.

It's clear that McFeely has found his sweet spot. A place where he can share his long-acquired knowledge about the fruit of the vine with those who love to learn. Nothing is more thrilling for him than watching other people's excitement when they try a brilliant pairing for the first time!

In addition to what is carefully curated in-store, Ryan also welcomes special-order requests.

SML Fine Wines:

Bringing the community together one bottle at a time.

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At time of publication, hours are:

Tuesday-Saturday 10am-6pm

Free tastings are held:

Fridays from 4-6pm