A toast to Toast

SANDUSKY — A ribbon-cutting ceremony recently occurred for Toast, a new venture undertaken by spouses Kevin Bertschi and Alana Shock, from within Sandusky Wine Merchant, 211 W. Water St., Sandusky. "This couple has seamlessly blended his love of wine and her knowledge of culinary art together in a new space called Toast," according to a statement from Destination Sandusky, noting Sandusky Wine Merchant still sells and specializes in wine, daily tastings, snacks and to-go options. Additionally, "Toast offers regionally inspired small plates prepared daily, which pair perfectly with wine," according to the Greater Sandusky Partnership. Regarding each person: • Bertschi has operated Sandusky Wine Merchant for the past seven years. • Shock has many years of culinary experience, previously owning her own restaurant in Columbus and serving as the chef for the governor's residence. This improvement was made possible in part by a grant from Shores & Islands Ohio. People can visit Toast from noon to 8 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.