Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/552044
{ SOMMjournal.com } 83 T he Windy City's Jason Prah and Scott Harney also wanted to focus more on customers, prompt- ing them to open their restaurant in early 2015. Named for a type of drawbridge, Bascule Wine Bar takes its inspiration from the analogy of bridging wine and food as well as from the many bridges that criss- cross the Chicago River. Although both men have significant tenure in fine dining, they aspire to create a truly neighborhood place with Bascule as evidenced by a welcome note they left on a local website, the creation of a bocce league and playing guests' records for them when they come in. Moreover, they are eager to make their own decisions and not have to jus- tify themselves to anyone. Harney points to his previous experiences, which gave him an understanding of finance to be able to go out on his own, but admits they must, "Put up or shut up; this time it's [our] money." A similar sentiment is shared by Brian McClintic, MS. Perhaps best known for his co-starring role in the documentary Somm, McClintic made a name for himself at The Little Nell in Aspen, but has chosen to invent his own place. As McClintic explains, "You spend an enormous amount of time working for other people, learning what you like and what you don't, while thinking: Wouldn't it be cool if we did it this way?" McClintic's Les Marchands was estab- lished in a hip Santa Barbara neighborhood with several like-minded colleagues in 2011. Initially conceived solely as retail, they grad- ually expanded their offerings to include a wine bar and special dinners, giving guests a more holistic wine and food experience. McClintic is excited about the evolution and growth of both sides of the business. P roprietor and Wine Director of Social Wine Bar in Charleston, SC, Brad Ball is no stranger to building businesses, having grown up in his parents' restaurants, eventually rising to Managing Partner at Poogan's Porch before develop- ing his own wine-centric concept. Blaming his entrepreneurial DNA, Ball has extended his reach to include a wine- making venture, a curated online wine shop and a wine storage facility. Although known as "the wine guy," Ball confesses that he has always been in love with business and actu- ally enjoys meeting with accountants and lawyers. He attributes his diverse portfolio to his ability to spot gaps in the industry and see the potential for success. PHOTO: JEREMY JACKSON Bascule co-owner Scott Harney cozies up to a favorite Provençal rosé on the bocce court. Brad Ball owns Social Wine Bar in Charleston, SC. Brian McClintic, MS at Les Marchands, his wine emporium in Santa Barbara. PHOTO: JEREMY BALL PHOTO: GATELY WILLIAMS