Vine 32: A Wine Bar That’s Breaking Barriers

Vine 32, a wine and graze bar located in Bedford, New Hampshire, is quickly becoming a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. Opened in April 2022 by New Hampshire locals Leah and Tom Bellemore, Vine 32 is a refreshing take on the traditional wine bar experience.

Leah, who has a background in boutique hotel marketing, got the idea for Vine 32 back in 2020, while on a business trip in Charleston, South Carolina. She was drawn to the self-pour wine bar concept, which allows customers to try a variety of wines by the ounce. She knew immediately that this was the perfect new business venture for her.

It did not take long for Leah to sell Tom on the idea. Together, they wanted to create a space where people could come together to enjoy wine and good company, in a relaxed and approachable setting.

It was important to Leah and Tom to stay local, so they looked to other business owners in southern New Hampshire for advice. They even reached out to the owners of the wine bar in Charleston that inspired them, who graciously shared their original business plan.

When Leah started to pursue her business idea, she faced some challenges and felt she was quickly dismissed by lenders as she was looking for the support to bring her vision to life. Afterall, it was a new concept to New Hampshire but she had done her research, finding that there was interest in the market. She was determined to find a lender who would listen to her vision and help her make her dream a reality.

While browsing the online for local lenders, Leah came across Bank of New Hampshire’s website and saw Jacy Amenkowicz, Vice President, Commercial Banker. Leah wasted little time and sent an initial email to Jacy, outlining her vison for a wine bar. Jacy was immediately impressed by Leah’s passion and determination and was eager to help Leah through the process to get a small business loan.

“Small business owners and entrepreneurs need someone to listen,” Leah says. “Jacy did that for me. She helped me understand the loan process and now, I can always rely on her to answer any business banking questions I have.”

Since opening its doors in the spring of 2022, Leah and Tom have become a small business success story. Vine 32 has evolved from an idea on paper to a community hub where women are supported and encouraged to pursue their dreams.

The banking and wine industries are centuries-old, but they are both undergoing a transformation to appeal to a new generation of customers.

If you are looking for a new place to enjoy wine and good company, be sure to check out Vine 32 located at 25 South River Road, Unit 107, Bedford, NH 03110. You will not be disappointed! And if you have been sitting on an idea for a new business, but not sure how to get started, reach out to one of BNH’s Commercial Loan Officers today to start the process of making your business dreams a reality.

Leah now has her sights on expanding the business with more locations!

Jacy Amenkowicz, Vice President, Commercial Banker for Bank of New Hampshire and Leah Bellemore, Owner of Vine 32