An innovative wine bar in Fort Worth has closed: 38 & Vine, which notably allowed customers to pour self-serve sips, has closed its location in the Foundry District, as well as a sibling location in Boerne, Texas.

According to Jennifer Demel, who founded the concept with her husband (and former Diamondback pitcher) Sam Demel, the business was doing well, but they're closing due to a dispute with a business partner. She's reluctant to give specifics since a lawsuit is involved.

"We had no intention of any of this happening," Demel says. "We were even looking at opening a space at DFW Airport and had every intention of continuing to grow it. But it wasn’t possible."

38 & Vine opened in in December 2019, inspired by the look and feel of an intimate European cocktail lounge. The space featured an innovative dispenser system that allowed customers to serve themselves a taste or a full glass of wine, offering an opportunity to try rare labels or sample a variety before deciding on a selection for the night.

The concept was big on education, including a 10-seat private tasting room for small group tastings, educational classes, and private reservations.

"It has been such a fun experience these past years for our team, getting to meet and talk with people about wine, and working with our vendors to find the weirdest and most fun things you don’t always see on a wine list," Demel says

They opened the location in Boerne in June 2022, and were also co-owners of Lazy Daisy Coffee Bar on Camp Bowie Boulevard, partnered with landlord Bruce Conti. That has also closed.

"It's hard for us, looking at these businesses that were both successful, and feeling like neither should have ever been closed," Demel says. "We had a great customer base and following and support, and we're so grateful for that. As the tears flow, we cannot say 'thank you' enough for the support our customers have shown since we opened our doors."

Demel says she's not sure for now what their plans will be moving forward — but in the interim, there's good news for Fort Worth wine lovers, since they are having a close-out sale featuring great wines at amazing prices.

"We have all our remaining inventory uploaded to our website for purchase over the next two days," Demel says. "All wine is offered at cost to give the most amazing pricing, and people can stock up just in time for Easter weekend."

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Stephanie Allmon Merry contributed to this story.