Detroit Book and Wine Shop Wins Retailer Award
Vesper Books and Wine, located in a former savings bank, earns the Next Wave Retailer of the Year title.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Local Shops
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Vesper Books and Wine in Detroit’s Core City neighborhood has been named the Next Wave Retailer of the Year. The hybrid venue operates as a wine bar, retail shop, and specialized bookstore focused on cookbooks.
Why it matters
The shop aims to increase access to natural wines in Detroit while providing community-focused programming. Owners work to serve local residents while remaining mindful of the area's economic challenges.
The shop is situated in a 19th-century building formerly occupied by a Detroit Savings Bank. It serves a neighborhood where the median household income is approximately $35,000.
The players
Symantha Duggan
She is a co-owner of Vesper Books and Wine who returned to Detroit in 2019.
Robert Wilson
He is a co-owner of Vesper Books and Wine who partnered with Duggan to open the business in 2024.
The details
Owners Symantha Duggan and Robert Wilson renovated the historic bank building with support from friends, artists, and architects. The shop maintains accessibility by manually sourcing high-quality inventory and hosting events like a member-based Cookbook Club.
Timeline
Symantha Duggan and Robert Wilson met in 2019 after Duggan moved back to Detroit.
Vesper Books and Wine opened to the public in 2024.
The shop was named Retailer of the Year in October 2026.
Culture Shift
The emergence of hybrid retail concepts like Vesper Books and Wine reflects a broader trend of repurposing historic urban infrastructure for community-centric businesses. This development mirrors the continued growth of Detroit's wine scene.
Residents can visit the Core City shop for curated cookbook selections and community events such as book signings and winemaker gatherings. The business model ensures inventory remains accessible to customers in the local neighborhood.
The takeaway
Supporting local retailers helps maintain the character of historic neighborhoods while fostering community engagement. Residents interested in the local cookbook scene can participate in store-led clubs or attend author events.
Further reading
Explore more unique storefronts and businesses in our Local Shops section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by VinePair.
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