At the planning commission meeting on Feb. 26, commissioners George Roupe, Jill Hunter, Lisa Kurasch and Rutshi Zutshi granted Patrick Rupert and his business partner the right to sell alcoholic beverages in their proposed retail wine store, Saratoga Wine Merchants Inc., on the conditions that the hours of operation would not run later than the proposed 10 p.m.

Rupert, who has three years of experience in the wine industry, said his business would invigorate downtown Saratoga during evening hours and create a needed synergy between the restaurant and winery business sectors.

"We're overwhelmed by the number of our supporters," said partner Sherry Hanson. "We like the energy here and would like to be a part of the community."

The retail store, which will specialize in quality wines ranging in price between $15 and $25 a bottle, will also carry domestic and imported olive oils and packaged gourmet food items. The 1,450-square-foot space will include an area for wine tasting.

Hunter commented that the business would be a nice addition to the community because it will create some foot traffic downtown during the later hours.

"It will also build a camaraderie among residents and business owners," said Hunter.

But Commissioner Mike Garakani, who said he had mixed feelings about the impact of the business on public safety, abstained from voting. At the meeting, Garakani questioned Rupert about the possibility of a customer becoming intoxicated from tasting the wines. He stated that with 200 different wines in the store and 3 ounces permitted for tasting each wine, it would be easy for a customer to get intoxicated.

Rupert responded that he has not had any such situation in his years in the business. He added that he would serve his customers at his discretion.

"If a person appears intoxicated, we will obviously not serve any more drinks to that person," he commented.

Staff planner John Livingstone added that not everyone who tastes wine swallows it.

"Some people spit it out," he said.

Residents and business owners have 10 days to appeal the commission's approval. If no one appeals, Rupert and Hanson will be able to proceed with their business plans.