Brian Powell, 35 / Owner, Wine Gourmet
Brian Powell purchased Wine Gourmet in 2011, becoming a member of the Guild of Sommeliers & Court of Master Sommeliers in 2013. He recently completed an expansion of Wine Gourmet and Medmont Mercantile for a multi-faceted gourmet shop. In addition, Powell ran as the Democratic candidate for the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors (Cave Spring District) in 2019. He is a member of the Lakeland Masonic Lodge; Hunting Hills Country Club and Roanoke Elks Lodge #197. He participated in the Valley Business Front 2020 Advisory Panel and is also a foster parent and advocate for children in the Roanoke Valley. Powell also supports multiple nonprofit organizations through his shop, including, but not limited to, Susan G. Komen Foundation, West End Center, United Way and CHIP. “My passion … not only allows me to interact with the community on a daily basis, but also to give back to the community through charitable contributions of time, energy and donations,” Powell says. “Roanoke has become my home over the last decade. It is extremely important to me to see it continue to grow, and to see my neighbors all continue to grow as well, even if they need a hand up or a connection made to a service here in the region.”
- Earned Bachelor of Science in Biology, Virginia Tech, 2009
- Member of the Roanoke Regional, Salem Roanoke and Montgomery County Chambers of Commerce
- Previous member of the Square Society Board
- Previous Susan G. Komen Big Wig
- Member American Cancer Society, Cattle Barons Ball Board
From the Nomination: ““Brian Powell has owned Wine Gourmet since 2011. As part of his ownership and dedication to wine, he is a sommelier. Powell is tireless in his efforts to serve and educate the community on fine wines, beer, and food. His level of community involvement goes far beyond ownership of the business. Many local businesses trust Powell and Wine Gourmet to craft hospitality baskets for their clients. Additionally, Powell is dedicated to Roanoke wine lovers – always willing to answer questions and order any special products. From wedding receptions to barnyard parties to large community events, Powell is a well-known and trusted name in Roanoke hospitality. Most recently, he is working to complete an expansion of Wine Gourmet and Medmont Mercantile, transforming the former wine and beer business to a multi-faceted gourmet shop, offering the finest in wine, beer, and chique gifts. … In addition to owning and operating Wine Gourmet, Powell is vested in the community. He ran as the Democratic candidate for the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors (Cave Spring District) in 2019, championing education and regional cooperation. … Powell is not a Roanoke Valley native, but the casual observer would think so because of his knowledge of the Roanoke Valley and his community involvement. He and his business are well vested in our area. At only 35 years old, he is an example of an entrepreneur who will serve the Valley for years to come.”
What do you love about Roanoke?
Powell: “After growing up in Northern Virginia and living/working in Chicago, I love that Roanoke has everything you really need or want from big city life with the feel of a tight-knit community. Roanoke has amazing growth potential, copious amounts of attractions, immense amounts of diversity, all while possessing a small town feel that allows for comfort and security.”
How does your passion impact our community?
Powell: “My passion for what I do with my job, my family, and the community impacts the community in several ways. My passion for my job, Wine Gourmet, not only allows me to interact with the community on a daily basis, but also to give back to the community through charitable contributions of time, energy, and donations. My passion for my family allows me to know that by opening our doors by being foster parents in Roanoke County, that we can make a difference in the life of a child in need – even if it is just for a brief time. My passion for the community itself drives us to work hard at the store so that we are able to say yes to more requests for donations each year but also to donate time through boards and volunteerism. Roanoke has become my home over the last decade. It is extremely important to me to see it continue to grow, and to see my neighbors all continue to grow as well, even if they need a hand up or a connection made to a service here in the region.”
