Calvert Woodley Catalog 2025 - Flipbook - Page 3
Calvert Woodley 2025 FALL SALE
Aleap and became the owner of Calvert Woodley. What a year it has been — one filled with
s I sit down to write this message, I can hardly believe it’s been a full year since I took the
learning, transformation, and above all, gratitude.
Change, as we all know, can be challenging. Taking the reins of a long-respected business with
such deep roots in our community was both exciting and humbling. There were moments of
uncertainty and plenty of lessons along the way, but with every challenge came new opportunities
— to grow, to refine, and to continue the legacy that Calvert Woodley has built over the years.
Our commitment remains the same: to offer an exceptional selection of fine wines, spirits, and
cheeses, paired with the warm, knowledgeable service our customers have always known us for. But
we’ve also embraced the beauty of new ideas — fresh partnerships, curated collections, and small but meaningful updates that bring
a renewed sense of energy to the store and to this catalog.
This issue represents more than just our latest offerings; it’s a reflection of our journey — the blend of tradition and innovation
that defines who we are today.
As you explore these pages, I hope you’ll feel the same appreciation I do for the artisans, winemakers, and passionate producers
whose work fills our shelves. And as for me, I look forward to sharing a bit more of my own story — how I came to this world of
wine and what continues to inspire me every day.
My journey in this industry began long before I ever imagined owning a business like Calvert Woodley. In many ways, it started
when I was just three years old, running around the storage room of my father’s tiny liquor store in Wilmington, Delaware. For more
than three decades, that store has been the heartbeat of our family — a place built on hard work, community, and genuine
relationships. Those early experiences shaped who I am today.
After graduating from Temple University’s Fox School of Business, I took what I thought was the “right” path and entered the
world of finance. After three quick years behind a desk, I realized that my true calling wasn’t in boardrooms or spreadsheets — it
was in entrepreneurship, in being hands-on, and connecting with people the way my father always had.
Convincing my dad to let me come work with him wasn’t easy. He wanted to be sure I understood the commitment, the grind,
and the passion it takes to run a successful small business. Eventually, I earned his trust, and with his support, I began searching for my
first location — a search that led me to Morris Miller Wine & Spirit.
Owning Morris Miller opened doors I never could have imagined. It wasn’t long before I became familiar with the name Calvert
Woodley — known throughout D.C. as the premier destination for fine wine and spirits. I admired the legacy, the expertise, and the
care that went into every detail of the operation.
Fast forward seven years, and here I am — writing this message to you as the proud owner of Calvert Woodley Wine & Spirits.
The journey has been humbling, challenging, and profoundly rewarding. Every day, I’m reminded of how far we’ve come and how
much there is still to learn and build upon.
As I reflect on this first year at Calvert Woodley, I know that none of this would have been possible without the incredible team
that makes this place what it is. To our dedicated staff — thank you for standing by us through this transition, for your patience, your
professionalism, and your unwavering commitment to our customers. Your knowledge and passion are the soul of this business, and I
am deeply grateful to have each of you as part of our journey.
A special thank you to Will Murck, Tom McKnew, and Ben Giliberti for your hard work and expertise in bringing this
catalog to life. Your insight and attention to detail ensures that every page reflects the quality and care our customers have come to
expect. I would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to Marlene Rice and Rusty Coolidge, whose long-standing partnership in
printing and design continues to give our catalog its signature look and feel year after year.
And finally, my deepest gratitude goes to Michael Sands and his late father, Ed Sands, for building such a landmark business and
for trusting my growing family to continue the Calvert Woodley legacy. It is an honor to carry forward what they created — a place
where expertise, community, and a shared love of fine wine, spirits, and cheese come together.
As we look to the future, I’m excited for what lies ahead. There’s so much more to explore, to taste, and to celebrate together.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us — your loyalty and enthusiasm are what make Calvert Woodley not just a store, but
a family.
Warmest wishes,
Jay Patel
Owner
