Calvert Woodley passes torch to new owners; MOM’s Van Ness grand opening in April

Longtime CW owner Michael Sands (right), with new owner Jay Patel (left) and Albert Bichot of Albert Bichot wines at February’s Vinexpo Paris. (Calvert Woodley photo)

A new era at Calvert Woodley: For the first time in nearly 60 years, Calvert Woodley Wines & Spirits is not owned and operated by a member of the Sands family.

Michael Sands, who took the reins from his late father Ed, is “passing the torch” to Jay and Tanvi Patel, Chevy Chase residents who own other liquor stores in the area. One can even boast of greater longevity than Calvert Woodley: Morris Miller, which has been around more than 90 years.

In a February 28th email to customers, Sands wrote that the Patels “will now lead Calvert Woodley into the future. Together, our families and dedicated staff remain committed to the exceptional service and community support you have come to expect from us.”

Sands also says he will be an active member of the team during the ownership transition, “ensuring that the trusted traditions of our past continue while we embrace fresh energy and new opportunities.”

He thanks Calvert Woodley customers for their support over the years.

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to be the owner of CW,” Sands writes, “one that I never took lightly. I know Jay and Tanvi feel the same way and they’re excited to embark on this exciting new chapter in the Calvert Woodley journey.”

MOM’s really is coming soon to Van Ness: This is not a drill. The best and biggest sign that the April 4-6 grand opening is real? It’s right there on the MOM’s Organic Market website.

The store’s physical signs are to be installed at 4250 Connecticut Avenue later this month.