A new business is uncorking something special in Wagner. Yes, Let’s Wine Co., founded by Alison Woods and Chloe Kocer, is bringing popup wine tastings and curated pairing events to the community with a focus on connection, approachability, and local collaboration.

While the original dream included the possibility of a full-scale winery someday, the duo decided to start by meeting people where they are. Pop-up wine tastings offered the perfect opportunity to share their love of wine in a flexible, welcoming way while building community and growing organically.

The idea for Yes, Let’s Wine Co. came together quickly. Through mutual friends and shared interests in wine, Alison and Chloe connected and eventually met over a glass of wine. What began as planning a small wine dinner for friends soon turned into bigger conversations and, before long, the realization that there was room for something new in Wagner.

Yes, Let’s Wine Co. operates as a pop-up experience, partnering with Kocer Fallen Timbers to host thoughtfully curated events rather than running a traditional tasting room. Guests can expect relaxed, welcoming gatherings featuring guided tastings of carefully selected wines, often paired with local cheeses or small bites. Events are intentionally designed to be conversational and comfortable, whether guests are longtime wine lovers or simply curious beginners.

Each event features curated pairings, meaning wines and foods are chosen intentionally to complement one another. By working with a smaller wine supplier, Yes, Let’s Wine Co. is able to highlight lesser-known wines and smaller producers, offering guests the chance to discover something new without feeling overwhelmed.

Because the business is pop-up by design, tastings vary from event to event. Some may focus on specific regions or varietals, while others highlight seasonal flavors or themed experiences. This keeps each gathering fresh and encourages guests to return again and again.

Community is at the heart of Yes, Let’s Wine Co.’s vision. Alison and Chloe are passionate about supporting local businesses, artists, and makers whenever possible, creating events that feel rooted in Wagner and the surrounding area. Their goal is for guests to leave feeling welcomed, connected, and excited to attend the next event.

Alison brings a strong background in business development, partnerships, and event coordination. She is a real estate and insurance agent with an MBA in Organizational Leadership and over five years of food and beverage experience. Chloe, a journalism graduate and newspaper owner, brings expertise in communication, marketing, and storytelling, along with formal wine education through ongoing Level 1 and Level 2 wine certifications. Together, they blend structure, creativity, and passion into every event. The pair say working together has been energizing and rewarding, as a shared dream of entering the wine world quickly turned into a business built on friendship and shared vision. Yes, Let’s Wine Co. will officially kick things off with an open house on Wednesday, January 15, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Kocer Fallen Timbers, located at 620 SD Highway 46 in Wagner. The open house will feature wines by the glass and bottle, live music by Kara Hanan, complimentary appetizers, and the chance to meet Alison and Chloe.

A ticketed wine tasting will follow on Friday, January 16, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., featuring four curated wine pours, four artisan cheese pairings, and a guided tasting experience. Seating is limited, with tickets priced at $30.

Looking ahead, the founders hope to build a strong foundation in their first year by offering fun, approachable wine experiences and forming lasting local partnerships. They emphasize that Yes, Let’s Wine Co. is for everyone, no wine knowledge required.

“ You don’t have to think you love wine to feel at home with us,” they said. “If you enjoy good company and shared experiences, you’re welcome here.”

To stay up to date on upcoming events, follow Yes, Let’s Wine Co. on Facebook.