We sat down with Owner Tiffany Nguyen of Ethos Wine & Tea in Charlottesville, Virginia. Tiffany is the wearer of many hats. She is no stranger to gathering people together “just because.” A long-time resident of Charlottesville, Virginia, and mother to four wonderful kids, she began her personal entrepreneurial endeavors in Fall 2023 (though she is no stranger to small business being married to a fellow business owner!). She desired to see an inclusive space where many people from all backgrounds could come together (with any type of drink in hand) and feel comfortable, and thus the dream of Ethos began to take form.

Ethos Wine & Tea in Charlottesville VA - Best Virginia Wine Bar — Ethos Wine & Tea in Charlottesville, Virginia: Meet the Owner

Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?

Most of my mornings typically start off with at least one of my four kids running into our room and climbing into our bed to give me a big hug and snuggle. Then after ample coaxing, we all make our way downstairs to get started for the day. For me that looks like a large glass of water and a cup of coffee—brewed with a touch of cinnamon during the fall days! After that, the day's agenda quickly takes over and I'm off. No two days are ever a like, but most include some version of answering emails, scheduling tastings, creating marketing posts, connecting with community partners, scheduling staff, running all sort of errands, and working the floor or kitchen. Most days I end with my family when I can make it home before the kiddos are in bed then sit down with some dinner, often a glass of wine, and more computer work.

What’s a good way for someone to start developing their wine palate?

The best way to start is to actually start! Sometimes I think folks overthink starting something—as if there is a right or wrong way. The next thing I would do is keep a curious mind—try to pick just one flavor of the wine that might seem familiar. Then try some more and don't give up.

What kind of wine do you typically enjoy the most?

I typically enjoy bubbly wine. I also tend to like wines that have a little oxidation.

What’s a wine that surprised you recently?

I recently tried a Lambrusco that was made in the traditional method that was champagne adjacent without the champagne price point! It was delightful.

What up-and-coming wine region are you excited about?

I would be remiss if I didn't mention the really neat wines, farming techniques, and winemaking coming from Virginia. I'm excited to have a front row seat to see the journey unfold and Virginia wine continue to evolve.

What’s your Instagram so that readers can follow you?

You can follow @ethoswineandtea and @tiffany_ethos.

Tell readers why they should visit your wine bar?

One of our goals at our wine & tea bar is to create a space that focuses on gathering people together. We seek to make wine approachable and simpler to engage with. It does not need to be fussy even if the beverage is complex. We also want to introduce people to new styles, grapes, and winemaking techniques. We also have a strong tea program for those in your group that are not partaking in alcohol for the evening or as a choice. We are a place that seeks to give you an elevated experience.