As mentioned in last issue's column, wine in a can is back. But if 2 and half glasses is too much, no worries-you can get a glass and a half with a new line of can wine from Prophecy. The labels are reason enough to buy Prophecy wine in a bottle and now the 250ml can. Each label features a beautifully drawn character that reflects the juice inside. I can see these mini 2-packs as fun holiday stocking stuffers, take home gifts for adult birthdays or add a straw and serve at a bridal shower. Three varietals affordably priced and widely available.

In 2004, Kim McManama turned a neglected cottage on Cornell into Perk Up Cafe. She kept the menu small and fresh and brought in her own coffee roasting system. Locals and visitors found a respite from the sudden surge of chain restaurants and coffee shops popping up on every corner. A few years later Kim wanted to add wine to her events but didn't want to buy a license. I owned the Mass Ave Wine Shoppe at that time and could use my license to pour off-site. Kim and I became friends and strong supporters of each other as we were among the few female-owned businesses in the city at that time. She also had support from a very talented manager, baker and roaster in Alice Matsuo. Alice and her husband had lived around the world and Alice learned her crafts from some of the best. She only used fresh, authentic ingredients in her breads, and moderately roasted her beans to stay true to their natural flavor. Kim added a selection of German pastries and cakes that were custom baked by Jeanette Footman. Customers could dine in or buy a loaf or cake or torte to go. In 2009 Kim sold the business to Alice and Jeanette who added the Brotgarten name as their high quality, authentic German products had garnered a strong following. My friendship and collaboration with Kim extended to Alice and Jeanette and I was delighted to help when they needed wine or support for an event.

Alice and Jeanette have grown the business slowly and smartly over the past ten years, always staying true to their mission of producing simple, fresh, authentic products. Perk Up's original menu item, a fried egg sandwich on whole grain bread continues to be a customer favorite.

This month Perk Up Cafe/Brotgarten celebrates 15 years of being owned and operated by women who value taste and quality over quantity and flash.

Congrats to Alice and Jeanette who continue to support local art, music and small businesses along with their delicious products seven days a week. www.perkupindy.com