05/26/2026
Life’s a trip…
Unbeknownst to me, when I walked into DAX for the first time a number of years ago, I had no idea a simple “coffee run” would be the catalyst for one of the most rewarding adventures of my life.
After losing sight of each other for eons (life happens), it’s hard to argue today against a theory of destiny reconnecting Darren and me that day. A few weeks later, DAX started its evolution towards wine. DJ has never been one to rest on his laurels. He’s always into something entrepreneurial (DAX Glace being his latest innovation), and wine, despite being a return to basics for us both in a way, was what was “next.”
Many thousands of bought, sold, and drunk-up bottles later, the privilege of plying my no-compromise hustle at DAX notwithstanding, the most rewarding aspect of my professional sojourn in Outremont, on the corner of Stuart & Van Horne (thank you Porrys ;) essentially comes down to 3 things; building community, keeping “true” wine Culture alive (pretentious statement, I know ;), as it was so graciously and generously taught to me, and most importantly, friendship.
I’ve met countless engaging people at DAX, a blessing made all too clear during the pandemic.
Compared to most, we had the privilege of maintaining limited social interactions with our community at a time when many felt isolated. Even for an (old) introvert such as myself, there’s no way to adequately explain the social riches of my weekly human interaction routine at the shop.
Some people come into your life for a purpose, by mere chance, temporarily, or forever…
Yesterday was the second wedding ceremony I have been a part of as a direct result of relationships rooted at DAX.
Both occasions will live forever as cherished memories, and the gratitude I feel for the life that has made these connections possible is nothing short of a religious experience for this atheist.
Rox and Didier, we love you.
Your kind souls, enthusiasm, beautiful transparency, and faith in each other inspire us.
Chance is often just destiny dressed in Carhartt.
This love affair brings deeper meaning to this writer’s life.
Forever grateful.
Love,
Dom
