Tonore’s Wine Cellar Iconic Monroe Business
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OVEMBER 1ST MARKS A SPECIAL occasion for the Kicey Family. It is the day that they officially became owners of an iconic Monroe establishment. Tonore’s Wine Cellar has stood proudly on the corner of 8th and Louisville since 1935. George Tonore Sr. started his business, a small grocery store, when Louisville Avenue was still a gravel road. He had the foresight to make changes to the nature of the business as times changed. In 1963, Tonore started carrying mostly wines and liquor. The store evolved into a shop that had one of the most diverse selections of wines found anywhere in the United States and in 1974, the name officially changed to Tonore’s Wine Cellar. Russell Kicey is no stranger to the industry. 29 years ago, he started working for Marsala Beverage Company. In addition to the many positions he held during his time there, he developed their craft beer portfolio, as well as their wine and spirits portfolio from inception. Russell became friends with the Tonore family through his job at Marsala. By that time, the store was being run by George Tonore Jr. Kicey jokingly mentioned to Tonore in passing that he would be interested in buying the business when George was ready to retire. Little did he know that Tonore and his wife had prayed to find someone to come into their lives and take over the establishment. Their main hope was that the new owners would carry on their traditions and uphold the integrity of the business. It was not an easy decision for the Kiceys. His wife, Julie, had been teaching 62 NOVEMBER 2016 | WWW.BAYOULIFEMAG.COM
almost as long as he had been employed by Marsala. For two people who had been in the same job, each for nearly 30 years, the choice demanded major consideration. After lots of talking, they decided to take the leap, and accepted the offer. They made good on their promise. For the past year they have continued to give back to charity, something that was very important to the family business. Each season they hold a tasting that benefits a local organization, 3 wine tastings and one whiskey tasting (Russell added the whiskey tasting). Some of the organizations that have benefitted from the events are Krewe of Janus, Boy Scouts, Quota Club, Rotary Club, Susan G Komen, ARCO, Family Promise and Med Camps. Other traditions that the Kicey’s continue are their party planning services, which includes wedding receptions, engagement parties and birthday parties, as well as their delivery service. Tonore’s will deliver for free to a reasonable area with any order of $150 pretax. With the holidays approaching, many people turn to Tonore’s for holiday gift baskets. They can create custom baskets with anything from wine to whiskey to beer, gourmet foods, gifts and more. Whatever the budget, they can accommodate your needs. They will deliver baskets to clients and friends as gifts during the holiday season. Out of town family members often order gift baskets for loved ones. It’s as easy as making a phone call. With Russell’s background starting
with beer, it comes as no surprise that he has expanded Tonore’s craft beer selection, always stocking the latest, newest brands and styles of beers. In fact, they now house the largest selection of craft beer in north Louisiana. If you are looking for a hand picked selection of craft beers, Russell can help. If there is anything you want that they don’t have, chances are very good that they can order it for you. Tonore’s Wine Cellar remains a family owned business that treats people like family. The Kiceys offer a comfortable and accommodating atmosphere with a rich history. A few additions have been made since the family became proud owners of the store. From a humble beginning, the business has grown to become a household name in the area. The Kicey family is committed to offering its patrons the same service that they’ve always experienced, and the same great selection of beer, spirits and wine. The Kicey Family would like to thank the community for the overwhelming amount of support they have received during their first year of business. They hope to be serving you for many years to come! Tonore’s Wine Cellar 801 Louisville Avenue in Monroe (318) 325-4100 Find them on Facebook for new arrivals and specials.