Navigating Tariff Uncertainty: Happy Times at Lush Wine & Spirits

Co-owner Mitch Einhorn of Lush Wine & Spirits finds himself worried about the future of his business, primarily due to escalating tariffs under the new presidential administration. Lush Wine & Spirits, operating since 2005 with locations in Roscoe Village and West Town, is known for its welcoming atmosphere where customers can enjoy wine and gourmet meals.

The threat of tariffs has intensified, with a recent proposal for a 200% tariff on French wines, leaving Einhorn uneasy about how it will affect both his inventory and his customers’ buying decisions. Historically, the establishment has relied heavily on European imports, making it particularly vulnerable to the rapid shifts in tariff policies, which have caused chaos in the industry. Einhorn remarked on the arbitrariness of these tariffs and expressed concern over the broader implications for jobs linked to the import process.

Einhorn has already faced the unfortunate reality of increased costs; since August, U.S. importers have paid a 15% tariff on European wines, costs that often trickle down to consumers. He paused new purchases amid the uncertainty, especially with the unpredictability surrounding Trump’s threats. In the past year, he has also contended with rising food prices, continually challenging the affordability of maintaining their gourmet dining experience.

Despite that, 2025 hasn’t been without its achievements. Einhorn secured a building permit to expand their Roscoe Village location, which saw sales increase by 1%, while their West Town branch experienced a 9% decline. The expansion entails balancing increased costs from construction and material against the hope that a larger space will bring in more customers.

Einhorn’s passion for creating new menu items and refining wine selections remains strong. He looks forward to a collaboration with a vineyard from Washington producing exclusive varieties for their store. As he navigates these uncertainties, his dedication to providing an enjoyable dining and purchasing experience remains his primary goal.

For more insight on the impact of tariffs on local businesses, visit Lush Wine & Spirits.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!