SANCAP CHAMBER
The SanCap Chamber cheered for Island Time Wine’s opening on Nov. 18 on Sanibel.
Island Time Wine (ITW), a boutique wine shop and tasting venue, celebrated its grand opening and ribbon-cutting in partnership with the SanCap Chamber on Nov. 18 to launch a destination for curated wine retail, education and experiential tastings.
Co-owners Anne and Drew Arnold bring a wealth of experience and wine credentials to the new Sanibel storefront, which the owners restored and refitted for both retail and event use.
A part-time resident since childhood, Anne Arnold holds the internationally recognized Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) diploma in wines and is a certified wine educator who has led courses in New England. She is a Society of Wine Educators Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) and is certified by the Wine Scholar Guild in several areas of expertise. Drew Arnold holds WSET Level 2 certification and brings over 30 years of leadership and technology experience to the operation.
“With their 2,000-bottle capacity and weekly themed tastings, their workshops and their food pairings, the Arnolds have impacted the island culinary and wine reputation in a big way,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said. “Their focus on sustainably made wines from small, often family-owned vineyards, fits perfectly with the islands’ mindset terroir.”
ITW’s selection balances prestige regions, like Bordeaux, Burgundy, Piedmont, Tuscany and Champagne, with discovery-driven categories, such as Loire whites, South African chenin and Uruguay Tannat. Wine-lovers will find thoughtfully chosen by-the-glass options, themed flights and seasonal features that encourage exploration beyond the familiar.
“Drew and I hope that Island Time Wine will not only be a place to pick up an interesting bottle of wine or try a glass of something new, but with our ability to host events from eight to 30 people, a place for wine lovers to gather and sip together,” Anne Arnold said.
ITW acknowledged the chamber for its proactive guidance and advocacy — particularly around permitting and alcohol licensing best practices.
“The chamber has been instrumental at every step,” Drew Arnold said. “Their practical advice shortened timelines and helped us meet compliance cleanly.”
The owners also credited local vendors, neighboring businesses and early patrons for ongoing encouragement during the build-out phase.
Island Time Wine is at 2407 Periwinkle Way, Suite 4, Sanibel.