Once a teacher, always a teacher! Sal Medina, former Monrovia High School History teacher turned entrepreneur, once dedicated 60-70 hours a week to his students who he affectionately refers to as, “his kids.”  These days you will find Sal, owner of the Packing House Wine Merchants, educating the public on Chateaus, Pinot Grigios and Cabernets.

The Packing House is home to this upscale Wine Bar.  Claremont’s first “bar” in over a century exudes a comfortable elegance that beckons passersby to peruse the abundant wine selection and sip leisurely from stylish, stem-less glassware.  Take a seat at the bar or in the lounge area outfitted with pillows and ottomans, and you will most likely be greeted personally by Sal himself.  He addresses his patrons by name whenever possible.  With his relaxed demeanor and effortless charisma, you are instantly put at ease.  There are no stupid questions.  Sal remarks, “We are teaching people how to drink.”  Sal and his Wine Servers field questions and offer their expertise to guide individuals through their wine tasting and selecting process.  Sal’s business philosophy is that of “Responsible Ownership.”  Sal explains, “We have attached ourselves to the buddy system.”  He went on to describe how he and his staff take steps whenever possible to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients. 

Still an active member of the community, he is an Ambassador to the Claremont Chamber of Commerce and will be Principal for a Day at one of Claremont’s local elementary schools—an event the students will certainly relish.  In an effort to unite local businesses, Sal is pioneering a partnership with Village restaurants and Venues.  This effort could mean reduced corkage fees at local restaurants if you purchase your bottle of wine from the Packing House Wine Merchants. 

Sample a flight, taste wine by the glass, or order cheeses and other light refreshments to complement your wine and clear your palette.  Attend one of the many events and themed nights that the Packing House Wine Merchants has to offer, such as Wine 101 and 102 for those of you who wish to increase your knowledge of wine.  Daily wine tastings are available as well as Wine & a movie on Wednesday nights.

To imbibe wine is not the sole purpose of a visit to the Packing House Wine Merchants.  Drinking is merely one aspect of a greater experience.  You will leave educated about wine and with a feeling of kinship that resonates a positive vibe throughout the entire community.

Packing House Wine Merchants
located at the Packing House
540 W. First Street, Claremont
(909) 445- WINE

Business hours:          

Tues-Thurs 11am-9pm
Fri- Sat 11am- 12am
Sunday 11an- 5pm