OREGON – No one can accuse Merlin Hagemann of not being a man of vision.
Hagemann, owner of Merlin’s Greenhouse & Flowers in Oregon, bought the building at 305 W. Washington St. in February 2017 with the plan to open a wine bar.
Less than a year later, the nearly 10,000 square foot space is completely renovated and now open as Cork & Tap. The lounge features regional wines, craft beers and specialty cocktails in a comfortable, relaxed environment.
While Hagemann owns the building, his daughter, Carrie O’Neil and her husband Jason are running the business.
And Hagemann said they are “more than confident” that it will be supported by the Oregon community.
“I’ve seen my parents run a business my entire life, 32 years,” said O’Neil, who is a teacher in the Oregon School District. “So, I’ve been a part of that, and I’ve been a part of a community that loves supporting people.”
Cork & Tap is not only a place to enjoy a beverage. It also has an event space that can seat 126 people upstairs. And the entire building can be rented for special events as well. In fact, the events calendar is already starting to fill up.
One of the features of Cork & Tap is the building itself. With a blend of exposed brick, wood and industrial touches, it is not a bland space. And there are even couches upstairs for people to relax and enjoy a drink.
“Couples grab a bottle of wine, go up there and drink your bottle of wine,” O’Neil said. “We’re hoping to promote a different atmosphere.”
One thing people won’t find at the Cork & Tap for now is food. But Hazel’s, formerly Conover Coffees & Chocolates, is moving in right next door and will feature coffee and chocolates as well as a specialty menu. There is a door connecting both businesses.
And if that is not to your taste, O’Neil said people are encouraged to bring in their own food.
“If you want to get a pizza and have it delivered here, by all means we are encouraging that,” she said.
Hagemann and O’Neil make it clear that Cork & Tap is not a regular bar, but a lounge for relaxed conversation, maybe some cards and some light music. A baby grand piano will be in the front window, and acoustic music will also be featured.
“It’s not your average bar,” O’Neil said.
Cork & Tap had its grand opening on Feb. 1. It is open Wednesay-Sunday.
