Colorado Wine Co opened in 2005 as the brainchild of Jennifer and John Nugent. After Jennifer passed away in 2014, the wine bar was sold to new owners, but sadly saw decline in its upkeep and popularity. Another nine-year period has passed, and the space has once again changed hands, but thankfully remains as a local wine and beer tasting room.
New owners Brian Girgus and Ashley Berry are Eagle Rock locals that have paid homage to the Nugents’ original vision of a community-centered tasting room with a thoughtful refresh, expanded hours, and a rebrand as Western Station Beer & Wine.
Read on for an interview with Eagle Rock residents and Western Station’s new co-owner, Brian Girgus:
What is the story behind Western Station?
Well, we’ve lived in the neighborhood for a long time and we’d stop by the Colorado Wine Co, which existed in the same space, as our friend Dan worked there. It was easy to see the place was in need of some attention and was being neglected by the previous owners. We were fortunate to be able to buy it and give it the attention it needed to be a cool place again. We were well aware of the business that original owners Jennifer and John had created many years ago and we felt like we would be able to give it some of that life that it had where the owners are available and present enough to create a more vibrant place.
What made you want to open a wine bar and bottle shop in Eagle Rock?
Well, being that we’ve lived here for 10 years it wouldn’t make too much sense to try and do business in another neighborhood. I own and operate The New California Barbershop in Echo Park and it’s hard enough to drive four miles down the 2…… haha. An old wise man told me a long time ago that it was very important to work where you live. Especially true in LA.
How do you feel that Western Station fits into the Eagle Rock community?
We have so many friends from the music/arts/film community that we’ve been part of over the years that live around Eagle Rock and Highland Park, La Canada, Glassell Park etc. It’s a natural position for us to offer them all a place to stop in and take it easy for a little while.
After an extended cold and rainy season, what are some of Western Station favorites to enjoy as we move into the Summer?
Chilled wines and cold beers, no doubt about it! I like ice cold beer year round, but the Craftsman1903 Lager or a nice Sauvignon Blanc on a warm sunny day is beautiful thing!
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Western Station Beer & Wine
2305 Colorado Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041
westernstationbeerandwine.com
(323) 274-4801
Sun – Thurs: 1pm-10pm
Fri + Sat: 1pm-12am