When it comes to exploring the world of alcoholic beverages, the choices can be overwhelming. Amidst the vast array of options, you might have come across the term “bottom shelf liquor.” But what exactly is bottom shelf liquor, and is it worth your consideration? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of budget-friendly spirits, uncovering the ins and outs of bottom shelf liquor, its characteristics, and whether it’s a viable choice for your libation preferences.

Understanding Bottom Shelf Liquor: Bottom shelf liquor, also known as well liquor or house spirits, refers to alcoholic beverages that are positioned on the lowest shelves of a liquor store or bar. These spirits are often more affordably priced than their top shelf counterparts, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. While they may not have the prestige or complexity of premium brands, bottom shelf liquors can still offer a satisfying drinking experience, especially when used in cocktails or mixed drinks.

Characteristics of Bottom Shelf Liquor:

1. Affordability: One of the defining features of bottom shelf liquor is its budget-friendly price point. These spirits are generally less expensive than premium brands, making them accessible to a wider range of consumers.
2. Varied Quality: Quality can vary significantly among different brands and types of bottom shelf liquor. While some may be suitable for sipping or mixing, others may have a more pronounced alcohol taste or lack the nuanced flavors found in higher-end options.
3. Mixing Potential: Bottom shelf liquors are often used as key ingredients in cocktails and mixed drinks. Their affordability makes them a popular choice for creating flavorful concoctions without breaking the bank.
4. Simple Labels: Bottom shelf liquor bottles typically have straightforward labels and packaging. While they may lack the decorative elements and intricate designs of premium brands, their simplicity can convey a sense of honesty and practicality.

When to Consider Bottom Shelf Liquor:

1. Cocktail Crafting: If you enjoy experimenting with cocktails and mixed drinks, bottom shelf liquor can be an excellent choice. Mixing these spirits with other ingredients can help balance their flavors and create enjoyable beverages.
2. Casual Gatherings: When hosting casual gatherings or parties, bottom shelf liquor can be a cost-effective way to provide a variety of drinks for your guests without overspending.
3. Learning and Tasting: Exploring bottom shelf liquor can be an educational experience, allowing you to discern different flavor profiles and develop your palate.

Conclusion: Bottom shelf liquor might not have the prestige or complexity of premium brands, but it serves a valuable purpose in the world of alcoholic beverages. Its affordability, mixing potential, and accessibility make it an appealing option for those looking to enjoy drinks on a budget, craft cocktails, or simply expand their tasting horizons. While not every bottom shelf spirit will be a hidden gem, some may surprise you with their drinkability and versatility. So, the next time you find yourself perusing the liquor aisle, don’t overlook the bottom shelf—you might just discover a budget-friendly gem that perfectly suits your drinking preferences. Remember, whether you’re sipping on a high-end spirit or enjoying a budget-friendly cocktail, moderation and responsible consumption are always key. Cheers to the world of spirits and the diverse range of choices it offers!

When it comes to finding the perfect libations to elevate your spirits, having a go-to liquor store that offers an impressive selection and top-notch service is a game-changer. In Green Bay, Wisconsin, one liquor store stands out from the rest – Ridgeview Liquors. With its exceptional variety, knowledgeable staff, and commitment to customer satisfaction, Ridgeview Liquors has earned its reputation as the best liquor store in Green Bay. In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why Ridgeview Liquors is the go-to destination for all your beverage needs.

1. Unrivaled Selection

One of the standout features of Ridgeview Liquors is its vast and diverse selection of alcoholic beverages. Whether you’re in search of fine wines, craft beers, premium spirits, or artisanal cocktails, Ridgeview Liquors has something to please every palate. Their shelves are stocked with a carefully curated assortment of local favorites and sought-after international brands, ensuring that you’ll find the perfect drink for any occasion.

2. Knowledgeable and Friendly Staff

The staff at Ridgeview Liquors are more than just sales associates; they are passionate connoisseurs of the world of spirits and libations. Their expertise and product knowledge are second to none, and they take pride in guiding customers to the perfect bottle or beverage that suits their preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a novice looking to explore new tastes, the friendly and approachable staff at Ridgeview Liquors will make your shopping experience both enjoyable and informative.

3. Exceptional Customer Service

At Ridgeview Liquors, the customer is at the heart of everything they do. The attentive and personalized service ensures that each customer is given the attention they deserve and that their needs are met. Whether you need assistance with selecting the ideal wine to pair with a special dinner or advice on creating the perfect cocktail for a celebration, the team at Ridgeview Liquors is dedicated to providing outstanding customer service that goes above and beyond.

4. Tastings and Events

Ridgeview Liquors goes the extra mile to engage and delight its customers with tastings and events. From wine tastings to spirit samplings, these events offer an opportunity to discover new favorites and expand your knowledge of various beverages. The engaging atmosphere and community spirit make these gatherings a highlight for anyone with an interest in the world of libations.

5. Convenient Location

Located in a convenient spot in Green Bay, Ridgeview Liquors is easily accessible and a go-to destination for residents and visitors alike. The store’s welcoming ambiance and well-organized layout make browsing a breeze, ensuring that you find what you’re looking for without any hassle.

Conclusion

Ridgeview Liquors stands as a shining example of a liquor store that goes above and beyond to provide a remarkable shopping experience for its customers. With its extensive selection, knowledgeable staff, exceptional customer service, and engaging events, Ridgeview Liquors has rightfully earned its reputation as the best liquor store in Green Bay. Whether you’re seeking a rare vintage, a local craft beer, or a premium spirit, Ridgeview Liquors is your one-stop destination for all things libation-related in Green Bay. Cheers to Ridgeview Liquors, where the world of spirits and fine beverages comes to life!

Nestled in the vibrant city of Kennesaw, Georgia, Total Wine & More stands as a haven for wine enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled selection of wines, spirits, beers, and accessories. With its commitment to exceptional customer service and a vast array of products, Total Wine & More provides a unique and immersive shopping experience for wine lovers in the area. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at Total Wine & More in Kennesaw, exploring its offerings, ambiance, and the reasons why it has become a go-to destination for wine aficionados.

A World of Wine: Total Wine & More boasts an extensive collection of wines from around the world. Whether you’re seeking a rare vintage, a popular varietal, or a hidden gem, their well-curated selection is sure to impress. From renowned wineries to boutique producers, Total Wine & More in Kennesaw offers an incredible range of choices, allowing you to discover new flavors and expand your wine horizons.

Expert Guidance: One of the standout features of Total Wine & More is their knowledgeable and passionate staff. Their team of wine experts is readily available to guide you through the vast selection, offer recommendations, and answer any questions you may have. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, their expertise ensures that you find the perfect bottle to suit your taste preferences and occasion.

Tasting Events and Education: Total Wine & More takes wine appreciation to the next level by offering various tasting events and educational classes. From themed wine tastings to seminars on wine regions and styles, these events provide an opportunity to deepen your understanding and enhance your wine knowledge. Engaging with fellow wine enthusiasts and industry experts, you’ll discover new favorites and gain valuable insights into the world of wine.

Beyond Wine: While Total Wine & More is renowned for its impressive wine selection, it goes beyond wine to cater to a wide range of beverage preferences. Explore their vast assortment of spirits, craft beers, and ciders, allowing you to craft your own unique bar experience. Additionally, they offer a selection of accessories, glassware, and bar essentials to complete your home bar setup or find the perfect gift for fellow wine lovers.

Community Engagement: Total Wine & More actively participates in the local community, organizing charity events, fundraisers, and wine tastings. By supporting local causes and engaging with the community, they foster a sense of connection and camaraderie among wine enthusiasts in Kennesaw and beyond. Keep an eye out for their upcoming events to join in the fun while giving back.

Conclusion: Total Wine & More in Kennesaw, Georgia, provides a remarkable experience for wine lovers, offering an exceptional range of wines, knowledgeable staff, tasting events, and a commitment to community engagement. Whether you’re searching for a special bottle, seeking expert advice, or simply looking to explore the world of wine, Total Wine & More is a destination that caters to all your wine-related needs. So, step into their store, immerse yourself in the world of wine, and embark on a delightful journey of discovery and enjoyment. Cheers to Total Wine & More in Kennesaw!

On my quest to get my two barrel picks from the Delaware County Bourbon Society, I had to take a trip to Anderson. I’ve been to Anderson multiple times in my life, but I’ve never been to a liquor store there. So when I had to head to the Noble Wine & Spirits, I figured I would take few pictures and give a quick review of the store.

The Location

The Noble Wine & Spirits is located just off of I-69 on Scatterfield Road. For those of you familiar with the Anderson, IN area, it’s near the horse track just passed the McDonalds and across the from Walmart. It has a decent sized parking lot and you shouldn’t have a problem finding it with the tall sign (shown below) that can be seen as you drive north or south on Scatterfield Road.

The Store

When I walked into the store, I was immediately surprised with the tasting bar at the front of the store. I have only seen tasting bars in a few liquor stores in Indianapolis, so this was a very pleasant surprise. It looked like they had a lot of the their store picks (so ILG’s store picks) open and able to be sampled. I was there at an odd time, so I didn’t ask if I could taste anything, but I imagine that wouldn’t be a problem.

As for the store itself, it was a very nice and clean liquor store with good organization. It’s not the largest store in the world, but it felt like I had plenty of room to move around and not feel cramped.

The staff was extremely nice and pleasant and I chatted with the two ladies while they grabbed my bourbon from the back.

If I was in the area, I would for sure make a stop here and take a look around.

The Bourbon Selection

There were plenty of options in the bourbon aisle and the prices were the same as I am used to at other ILG locations (my home town liquor store is also a Noble Wine & Spirits). There were also a handful of barrel picks. For a small town outside of Indianapolis, it’s a pretty good selection!

I recommend you stop by and see it for yourself.

Overall Thoughts

I’m always going to be a fan of my local Noble Wine & Spirits, this location was very nice. If you are in the Anderson area, I think you need to stop by and see what they have on hand. I would also keep your eyes open for the tastings they offer each month (sometimes every other month). And tell them the Bourbon Master sent you!

I’ve been vacationing in Siesta Key, Florida for the past 10 years or so and I’ve been on a hunt for a good bourbon spot. If I have a day of rain or if I want to end the night on the balcony overlooking the ocean with a pour of bourbon, I want to make sure it’s a good one (or at least something interesting). And since I don’t want to put a bottle in my suitcase for the plane, I had to find something in the area that would be my go to store.

When I first started going, I would always stop at the massive Total Wine and More that is south on 41. It had a huge selection of craft beer, wine, and spirits. I still enjoy stopping by here if I’m in the area, but on my last two trips, I found a place I like even more.

Dive Wine and Spirits

Located just off the island (off the Stickney Point Bridge), is a hidden gem of a liquor store for bourbon lovers. After you get your shopping done at the great big Farmer’s Market grocery store (or before you even start), I recommend making a stop in this store. And this is for a few different reasons:

Reason 1 – There Is A Great Selection

This store looks like a really small outside, but it actually holds quite the selection inside (specifically of bourbon). You are going to find a lot of your standard selections, but there are also a lot of odds and ends in the store. I find the selection of bourbon is a bit more curated that most liquor stores I go into and browse. When I would go into a Total Wine and More, I would see a bunch of stuff that I could see on a shelf in Indiana. When I walk into Dive Wine and Spirits, I see a lot more of the unique stuff. And this is the main reason I love going to this store.

Reason 2 – There Are A Lot Of Store Picks

As I have mentioned before on this blog, I am huge fan of barrel picks. And that’s one thing I noticed a lot of in Dive Wine & Spirits. They have a lot of different barrel picks (actually a whole table at the front). I did a blind buy of a heavy rye (with dice on the label) and it was just ok, but I think I literally just picked wrong. A smart person would have walked back to the bar in the back (you read that right) and try a few before buying a bottle.

Side note: I’m not quite sure who the Eskimo Brothers are, but they seem to have a lot of influence of the barrel picks and they really love the ryes and the finishing of bourbon in other barrels (wine, sherry, etc). And they have a thing for crazy labels.

Reason 3 – The Freaking Bourbon Bar In The Back

This might be my favorite reason to stop at this liquor store. There is a freaking bourbon bar in the back. If you didn’t know any better, you would have no idea this even existed. Consider this your enlightenment and your invitation.

And the selection of bourbon (and rums for that fact) is incredible. I pulled one of their bourbon lists down and you can see the line up here (this is subject to change, but it’s a great reference point as you consider making a stop. This has now become a regular stop on each trip down to Siesta Key (and I’ll be stopping again when I head back down).

Reason 4 – They Host Events (Ones That I Want To Attend)

The last time I was in this store, I was sitting at the bar with my wife and we noticed that they were preparing for some sort of event. They had these nice bags together and they were also printing off menus. After a little prying, we found out that had a huge Willett Dinner scheduled for that evening. I got to see the menu (food and bourbon/rye tasting) and I wanted to go, but they sold out.

Then I started following them on Facebook and started to see some of their other events. And dang – They seem to be doing something almost every day of the week.

Here is just a sample of some of the events they have hosted this year.

Conclusion

If you are headed to the Sarasota area, you need to at least stop by and check out Dive Wine and Spirits. I would suggest setting aside around an hour to browse and to enjoy a cocktail or pour from the bourbon bar in the back. If you are lucky enough to be there when they have an awesome event, please let me know how it goes!

I’ve also heard they have a sister store (no idea if this is true or not) called the Liquor Locker. I hope to take a stop and check that out as well.

It might not look like much from the outside, but I promise you will want walk in the door. Once you do, you might not want to walk back out.

I’m talking about Storied Company in downtown Indianapolis (right next to the bus stop off Delaware).

The Experience

When you walk in, you are going to see a small shop with a bunch of bourbon, scotch, and irish whiskey (plus other spirits) that you probably haven’t seen in most stores. And you’ll meet one of two guys – Simon (the wine guy) or Denis (the spirit guy). Once you introduce yourself, odds are they’ll remember your name every time you come into the store (I’ve been in 5-6 times and both of them remember my name – It’s crazy).

But that’s just the beginning. You have just walked into a university of the spirit and wine world. And your class starts now.

The name Storied Company really sums up this place well. These two gentlemen know the story of every bottle they have on the shelf. I’m not kidding when I say that either. Take the picture above – If you sample any of those bourbons or irish whiskies, Denis or Simon will tell you about the history of the distillery, the mash bill used, where the grain was farmed, and probably what the distiller had for breakfast before making that particular spirit (that one might be a joke). These two know everything about the spirits and the wine they have at the store. It could come from their years of experience in the liquor and wine industry plus their capacity to tell a killer story.

And this is more than just a liquor store. It’s also a tasting bar. You can have up to 4 tastes of anything that is on the tasting shelf. They are organized by the colored dots (one dot is $5 a taste, one is $10, and one is $15). It’s your chance to try a bottle of $400+ bourbon for $15 (I’ve done it and it was great – I would never buy a bottle that pricey, but it was nice to see if I would actually like it). You can come in with a tasting plan or you can let the guys at Storied Company direct you to your new favorite spirit or wine.

The Selection

If you are expecting your big name spirits at this location, think again. Denis and Simon go and handpick every bottle that is in their shop. This comes in the form of sourcing from specific distilleries (domestically and abroad) and even getting into some barrel picks from distilleries like New Riff, Compass Box, Starlight, Wilderness Trail, and others. And after buying and tasting multiple of these selections, I can say that they know what they are doing.

And they have a killer selection of irish whiskey and scotch. This is a unique experience for a typical bourbon lover. I know that I’m not a typical drinker of the spirits from across the pond, but from my stops at Storied Company, I have started to enjoy of few different types of each spirit. Each time I go into the store, I make sure to at least try 1-2 new items I’ve never had before (like Armagnac or some really peat forward scotch).

The Best Part

If you do absolutely nothing else from this blog post, you need to do the following:

1. Go to their website here: https://www.storiedcompany.com/
2. Sign up for their email list
3. Receive the emails that go over all of their items and their special releases.

Then you’ll start seeing emails like this:

and this:

It’s the true hidden gem of Storied Company. You get access to special releases and you get weekly education on spirits from across the globe.

And if you decide to buy some wine or liquor, they’ll store it at their location indefinitely. You can come any time and grab all of your purchases at once. I like to order 4-5 bottles and then schedule a day to go on a visit (with a group of friends).

Conclusion

If you are looking for a liquor store where you can buy all of the allocated bourbon your heart desires, this isn’t you place. If you are looking to buy a bottle of Tito’s, this isn’t your place. If you are looking for educational tastings with a selection of hand picked spirits and wines, Storied Company is your place. If you make a trip, tell them Chris Wilkey sent you. If you don’t want to make the trip right now, make sure to sign up for their email list at https://www.storiedcompany.com/.