Meet Adam Ottly, Proprietor of Katonah Wine and Liquor

Adam Ottly’s obsession with wine began 12 years ago, when he started working for his father-in-law, Sam Rogers, the long time owner of a 30-year-old business in the heart of Katonah.

When Rogers said he was ready to retire, Ottly was just 29—but the budding oenophile loved to drink and learn about wine and decided to purchase the business.

Since he took over in 2006, Ottly, now 34, has adjusted his purchasing strategies along with the economy. "Now people would rather buy two, $20 bottles of wine instead of one $50 bottle," he said.

And he's learned to reach out and engage his customers, with weekend wine and vodka tastings and a wine club, in which joiners buy four recommended wines per month and receive recipe pairings to go along with the selections.

One thing he said he'd never change, however, is his commitment to getting to know his customers on a personal level and always providing them with exciting new wines. 

Patch sat down with Ottly, a Southeast resident, to learn what makes Katonah Wine special, what it takes to own a wine business in Katonah, and what he's recently uncorked on his table.

Patch: What did you do before opening your wine shop?

Ottly:  I used to work for an aviation company in White Plains.

Patch: What makes Katonah Wine different from the other local wine shops?

Ottly: Katonah Wine has always been a family-owned operation. I believe getting to know your customers on a personal level and getting involved in the community is the most important thing in today's society.

Patch: Is there a particular niche you try to fill, given there are a handful of wine shops for locals to frequent? 

Ottly: Finding new and exciting wines that speak to my customers is a big part of my job, and I strive to find the best prices for today's wine selections.

Patch: How have you dealt with the challenges of this tough economy?

Ottly: We have had to adjust the focus of what types of wine to keep in the store. More and more customers are looking for the best quality of product for their dollar. We have some great distributors in the industry to help us achieve our goals.

Patch: What’s your favorite thing to drink?

Ottly: Caymus Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon.

Patch: What would you recommend for the Thanksgivng holiday?

Ottly: Here are some great wine selections for your Thanksgiving dinner: A good white wine includes Sancere or Dry Riesling or Red Zinfandel.

Patch: And what will be served with your turkey?

Ottly:  Klincker Brick Zinfandal.

Katonah Wine and Liquor will be open from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Thanksgiving. They'll be operating with normal hours throughout the weekend, and on .