Nestled among the trees in West Milford is a quaint little place called Wine in the Woods. It is a unique and different experience not just a tavern or a package goods store, but a place that is passionately devoted to the wine business. The owners Allan and Xin Capalbo complement each other’s years of experience. Allen was born in Colusa, California, about 200 miles north of Sacramento. He moved to New Jersey in eighth grade, went to Butler High School and attended William Paterson College, where he studied second education and world literature. But he started working for Shop Rite Liquors in Lincoln Park and found his calling. He managed Ramsey Liquors for 10 years and was also was employed by Carlo Rosse in Hohokus Wine and Spirit World. He was a representative of Viniferra and Allied Beverage in their fine wine division. He is a registered sommelier with the 21 Club in NYC and a member of Conferie De Ste Entienne d’Alcien (French wine society). Allen traveled extensively through the wine countries of Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Spain and Greece all the while dreaming of opening a package and pour store. Upscale yet not snobby, Wine in the Woods is the realization of his dreams. The shelves are stocked with a full selection of gourmet items such as coffees, teas, cheese, breads, sauces, and jams, each intended to enhance the wine experience. A steady stream of customers come in the store and ask for the best wine for specific dishes or occasions. Allen is well prepared with the right answer. There is a lounge with a fireplace which is an inviting place for customers to enjoy a tasting. Every two weeks the tasting list changes, but it is always done in themes, 10 whites and 10 reds. So far, Wine in the Woods has featured wines from Italy, South Africa, South America and everything American except California. Capalbo wants people to know there are vineyards in many other places. Adding her talent to this establishment is the other half of the team, Xin. Born and raised in Shanghai, China, she came to the states on an art scholarship. She attended the University of Ohio and Montclair State College. She has a thorough knowledge of computers and finance and has designed the logos, advertising and invitations for the store. Wine in the Woods carries handmade gifts which Xin has created, along with jewelry and handbags. The store is decorated with antique chairs and tapestry, murals, flowers, antique plates and chandeliers. Allen and Xin greet their customers at the door and their staff is very courteous. To enhance the feeling of being in a living room, the Capalbos have ordered a couch. A user-friendly place, customers are encouraged to bring their friends, their books, and even their food to enjoy. Wine in the Woods even hosts even a knitting club every Wednesday afternoon. Upcoming events include: Beauty in the Woods, all natural cosmetics, Opera in the Woods, and Art in the Woods and a vineyard owner will be presenting wine with selective food. Allen said his associates and salesmen friends told him he was nuts to open a place like this here. He answers with his slogan “There’s nothing like us in New Jersey.” Wine in the Woods is located at 216 Cahill Cross Road.