Detroit’s reputation as a destination for foodies and drink enthusiasts continues to grow, and the city’s newest addition is sure to be a hit with those who appreciate fine wine, great music, and a stylish atmosphere. Brix, the latest hotspot for wine connoisseurs and event goers, is located in the bustling Rivertown neighborhood, walking distance from the Riverfront and surrounded by an energetic community.
This black-owned retail shop and event space promises to bring a unique and exciting new perspective to the city’s thriving social scene. The brand’s combination of a distinctive wine-tasting experience with a social ambiance provides a sophisticated backdrop that visitors are sure to love.
Mikiah Westbrooks, the owner and visionary behind Brix, is a seasoned veteran in the industry and a trusted brand in the city. Westbrooks had a successful establishment named Brix Wine & Charcuterie Boutique in West Village that quickly became a favorite among locals due to the inviting and rare ambiance. In 2019 the boutique and bar closed its doors with plans on locating. Although there are plans to reopen that concept in the future, Westbrook is excited about this new and exciting approach to gathering like minds and enjoying wine.
“Our mission with Brix is to create a space for the novice, the enthusiast, and the connoisseur to come together, and share knowledge,” said Westbrooks. She credits her unwavering passion for wine as the driving force behind the Brix brand.
With its vast selection of wines available for purchase and tasting, Brix provides a wine-lover’s paradise with wall-to-wall offerings. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing evening of wine-tasting or need to pick up a bottle after a long week, Brix is an ideal destination. The venue also serves as an ideal setting for private events and wine pairings.
Beyond this incredible space, the wine is the star of the show. Offering a wide range of moderate to premium-priced wine selections, there is sure to be something for everyone. One of the signature offerings at Brix is the Haus of Harriet, a direct-to-consumer private-label wine that pays tribute to the fearlessness of Harriet Tubman. The collection includes two exquisite varietals: a Cabernet Sauvignon and a sparkling wine.
At Brix, Mikiah Westbrooks brings her expertise to all aspects of the operation, not just wine selections. In addition to the impressive wine list, Brix provides a curated soundtrack to enhance the overall experience, making music an equally sought-after pairing with their wines.
“Music is a huge part of Brix and nothing pairs better with wine than music. At the former Brix location, we had a music series called the DJ Selector where DJs, city officials, and tastemakers would share the soundtrack of their lives through a 2-hour DJ set. Drake Phifer (Phifedom) curated the lineup and will be handling the music in the new location as well.”
Bringing both style and expertise to the wine industry is a challenging feat, and being part of the mere 1% of Black owners in the industry can make it even more difficult. Westbrooks is an advocate for greater diversity and inclusivity in the field.
“When it comes to challenges in the wine industry there are many but the one that stands out more than anything else is the lack of inclusivity and diversity,” Westbrooks continues. “For minorities looking to enter the wine industry, I would say we need you, we need your voice, and we need your advocacy to help make this industry more inclusive for people of color. Whatever you do, don’t give up. Find a mentor or someone in the industry that is willing to share their knowledge and help you navigate [the challenges of the industry].”
Westbrooks draws inspiration from the thriving business community in Detroit and emphasizes the importance of perseverance and solidarity. Positioned among other active businesses, Brix is poised to attract significant foot traffic during the upcoming summer months. With exciting events already underway, Brix is a top destination for laid-back vibes, exceptional wine, and essential wine accessories like openers, glasses, and decanters.
Brix is set to open its doors on May 3rd, offering guests a chance to enjoy a selection of wine samples, delectable Charcuterie by Janna Kay Charcuterie, a 10% discount on all wine purchases for the day, and a positively delightful atmosphere.
With the city’s transformation still in full swing, the opening of Brix has brought even more excitement to the streets of Detroit. Stay tuned for more details about Brix’s upcoming events, which promise to be nothing short of unforgettable. To keep up with all the latest happenings at Brix, be sure to follow them on Instagram @brixdetroit, Facebook @BrixWineDetroit and their website shopbrixretail.com
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