Clover & Clay Spotlight Series
At Clover & Clay, we love celebrating the makers, merchants, and community-minded people who add warmth and creativity to local life. From kitchens filled with the scent of sourdough to shops that turn simple gatherings into something special, each story reminds us why we love what we do; connecting people through thoughtful gifting, beautiful gatherings, and shared experiences.
This month, we’re raising a glass to one of Redding’s finest, Frank Avallone of Redding Wine & Spirits, whose passion for great wine and genuine hospitality makes every visit feel like coming home.
A Local Gem for Holiday Sipping, Hosting, and Gifting
There’s something special about walking into a store where the owner greets you by name and remembers what you love to drink. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Redding Wine & Spirits, where owner Frank Avallone brings two decades of expertise, and a genuine love of hospitality, to every conversation.
Frank’s roots in hospitality run deep. Raised in a family that owned Old Sorrento in Danbury for 36 years, he grew up surrounded by the rhythm of good food, great company, and thoughtful service. “The importance of customer experience was instilled in me early on,” he says. “It’s just part of who I am.”
After more than twenty years in the beverage industry, spanning retail management, store ownership, and close relationships with suppliers, Frank has developed an expert eye for curating selections that balance quality and value. Earlier this year, when the opportunity arose to purchase a store in Redding, he knew it was the perfect next step. “This is home for me,” says Frank, who was born and raised in Bethel and now lives here with his wife and three daughters. “I love being part of this community and helping people find something they’ll love to share.”
Thanksgiving with Frank: Wines for Gathering and Gratitude
As the holidays approach, Frank turns his focus to Thanksgiving. “There’s always something sparkling for starters and celebrating,” he says. “Then wine with the main course, and a cordial or two for conversation and games after dinner.”
When it comes to pairing, Frank keeps it both classic and accessible:
- Start with something sparkling: Champagne or Lambrusco are his go-tos for appetizers.
- For the meal: A Riesling for white-wine lovers and a Pinot Noir or Zinfandel for those who prefer red. “Thanksgiving food is pretty traditional, so these wines are versatile enough to complement almost everything on the table.”
- And for the host gift? “You can’t go wrong with bubbles,” Frank says.
At his own table, the focus is on variety. “I like to share something new with our guests every year,” he adds. “It’s part of the fun; introducing people to wines they might not have tried before.”
Frank’s Picks for This Year’s Table
If you’re stocking up for the season, Frank recommends a few standout bottles:
- Lini 910 Lambrusco Rosso: A lively sparkling red, perfect for appetizers and cured meats.
- Selbach Riesling Kabinett: Light, crisp, and ideal for turkey and all the trimmings.
- Broadley Vineyards Willamette Valley Pinot Noir: Elegant, fruit-forward, and beautifully balanced for the holiday meal.
While the shop also gets its share of limited-release bourbons and tequilas, Frank notes they’re gone almost as quickly as they arrive, so keep an eye out if you’re hunting for something special.
Gifting Made Easy (and Personal)
Redding Wine & Spirits is ready for the holiday season with both pre-made and custom gift baskets. “We love helping people create something thoughtful,” Frank says. “If it’s available in Connecticut, we can get it. We also offer delivery and curbside pickup to make holiday shopping that much easier.”
Introducing Frank’s Monthly Picks Wine Club
For those looking to explore new wines all year long, Frank’s Monthly Picks Wine Club is the perfect way to sip and discover. Each month, members receive three bottles handpicked by Frank, thoughtfully selected to expand your palate, explore new flavors, and uncover hidden gems.
Stay for six months, and you’ll receive a special gift of exclusive Redding Wine & Spirits merch, Frank’s way of saying thank you for being part of the community.
Membership: $60 per month, with pickups on the first Friday of each month.
Sign up in-store or by emailing frank@reddingwineandspirits.com.
Clover & Clay × Redding Wine & Spirits
Holiday Collaboration + Event Announcement
This season, we’re thrilled to announce a festive collaboration between Clover & Clay and Redding Wine & Spirits, bringing together the art of gifting and the joy of great wine.
Our partnership features handpicked wines and spirits paired with Clover & Clay’s signature entertaining pieces, all beautifully packaged in our signature gift boxes and ready to give.
✨ Mark your calendars:
A Very Merry Pairing Party
📅 Wednesday, December 10 | 🕔 5–8 PM
📍 Redding Wine & Spirits
Join us for an evening of sipping, shopping, and seasonal cheer, complete with curated gifts, perfect pairings, and a few festive surprises. It’s the perfect way to toast the holidays and celebrate local.
A Toast to Community
For Frank, wine is about more than what’s in the glass. “It’s a big part of giving thanks in my family,” he shares. “We always raise a toast to what we’re grateful for. This year, I’m thankful to be here in Redding, growing this store, and connecting with so many great people.”
As we head into the season of gathering and gratitude, we couldn’t agree more. Here’s to local businesses like Frank’s, helping make our celebrations sparkle, one glass at a time.
