This place continues to be the best. They have great selection of both wine and liquor. Staff are knowledgeable and give excellent recommendations. read more

I wish I could give more than 5 stars. I live in the area, and find myself in here too often. Alan, Roger, Ben, and Berto all go above and beyond. They're friendly, funny, and knowledgable. When I walk by the store with my daughter, she asks to go in so we can "see my friends". On top of the service and people - the selection is outstanding. Beautifully curated - with stuff it's hard to find in other stores. Whether you're looking for an affordable bottle of wine to bring to a party, the perfect bottle for a special occasion, or just something to pair with dinner for the evening - they never miss. They are the Steph Curry of bottle shops. 30 Stars. read more

The is a fantastic neighborhood wine and spirits store. They have a great selection of wine and spirits that you will not find at a Bevmo. The service I received from the staff was better than amazing. I was helped by Roger who was extremely knowledgeable and took time to talk (educate) to me about the different spirits. This was my first time here I will definitely be returning. I highly recommend coming here when you want to purchase a quality wine and spirits that you may never had heard of. read more

Thanks to Ben and the team for having this delicious non-alcoholic beer in stock. Athletic Brewing Company has a few flavors and Ben took the time to text me a note that they'd gotten them in stock. If NA beer is your jam you must try this! read more

Arlington Wine & Spirits - Non-alcoholic beer - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Kensington, California

** The following review reflects my experience prior to the shelter-in-place order currently in effect. ** Kensington is a tiny bedroom community with two commercial mini-corridors. The more famous one is Colusa Circle where Narsai's used to be years ago, and the other is up on winding Arlington Blvd. at Amherst where Young's Market is. That's where this nicely expansive wine shop is snugly located and offers enough selection to satisfy even the most amateur wino. That would be me as I chose a wine based primarily on color and secondarily on price (it was just $12.99), a full-bodied rose from Corsica, the 2018 Domaine Santa Giulietta Rose 'Corse' (photo: https://bit.ly/2WDEeFH). Luckily I received validation from the knowledgeable sales clerk and it turned out to be a nice complement to grilled salmon. It was good to see them operating from a table in the doorway, and people were patiently queuing up six feet apart. RELATED - Kicking around in Kensington? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2VyCP18 read more

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I stopped by Arlington Wine & Spirits on the recommendation of a friend just before Christmas for a couple of gifts. I was looking for a few unique spirits that I wouldn't find at BevMo. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable and after a couple of questions got me exactly what I was looking for. I'll definitely be back. read more

Love the staff at Arlington! They are all knowledgeable about their stock and are all very helpful with recommendations.

Thank you Alan and team for being such a wonderful part of the community! Especially during covid, you and your team have been a beacon of joy and great spirits in all senses of the word. If everyone had your graciousness, humor and warmth it would be a far better world. Thank you for being here! read more

Arlington Wine & Spirits - Alan chose this wonderful champagne for our 30 year wedding renewal celebration. Gorgeous bubbles in all ways! Thank you Alan! - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Kensington, California

It's my neighborhood liquor and wine and beer spot, and it is great! They don't disappoint on selection and the staff are SUPER helpful. I love the January wine sale. Mostly because of dry Januarys and my need to torture myself. Great place to buy your hooch. read more

They know their spirits and know them well. Can always find something to add to our home bar or to bring to another's home to share.

I come here all the time to stock up on our Wine supply. Great selection, knowledgeable service, and if you buy a case they'll carry it to your car. read more

This shop is located between Raxakoul Coffee and Cheese Market (formerly Country Cheese) on the corner and Inn Kensington. I've been in a few times over the years, but mostly I've seen them as a place to bring my corks (real ones, not the plastic ones) for their front windows. With COVID, they've put their cash register in the window, so that space is filled. When the election was called for Biden and Harris, I wanted to buy a small bottle of champagne to celebrate. I thought of BevMo, which didn't have it, and didn't think further, which I regret. Today I got an email from a friend w/ photo of a glass and a small bottle of champagne to toast the Inauguration and that inspired me to call Kensington Wine & Spirits to see if they had one. I asked for a split and the man who answered the phone told me they had them. I also asked about the corks and that's when I learned about the cash register in the window and that they were no longer accepting corks because the owner couldn't take them to Napa for recycling during the pandemic. They will accept orders over the phone which you can pay for or you can just walk up to their window and order. There's a third option, I think, but I forget what it is. I decided to just drive up and ask at the window. I parked right in front. I got in line behind a woman who was buying a bottle of wine. When it was my turn I told the man I was the one who had called about the split of champagne. There were two men working and I'm not sure if he man who helped me was the one whom I spoke to on the phone. Both times the man was friendly and helpful. The man helping me brought out 5 little bottles, the first two sparkling wine from New Mexico, Gruet, and the other three of French champagne. The New Mexico ones were considerably less expensive at $12.25. The French ones ranged from $25-30-something. The helpful man described the Gruet wines as dry and surprisingly good, the pink one a bit more fruity than the white but still dry. It sounded like just what I wanted. He also explained that they were half bottles, not splits, that splits are smaller, like what you get on an airplane, but lots of people ask for splits. I love getting information like that! The wine is chilling in the refrigerator and I will drink it when it's chilled. read more

What a wonderful wine and spirits shop! Besides ALWAYS being beyond helpful when looking for the perfect wine for a gift or occasion, or helping find that one obscure whiskey my husband loves that I can never seem to remember, they are super friendly with a real customer service positive upbeat attitude. Since renting in Kensington for the last 3 years, they've become a staple, especially in being able to provide that same awesome service during COVID. We finally were able to purchase a house here in Kensington this month and upon closing day decided to grab some champagne and our usual whiskey to celebrate on the way to our new home. We asked for a recommendation and also asked if they sell paper cups (cause we forgot them). Roger, hearing our great news exclaimed "Congratulations! This calls for more than just paper cups." He then came back with 2 glass flutes (to return whenever) and 2 glass tumblers which he gave to us as a gift. It was beyond thoughtful and really made us feel incredibly special. Now that we're permanent residence we'll be hitting up this locally owned business for as long as we're around. Cheers guys, you're the best! read more

Arlington Wine & Spirits - two glasses of wine and a bottle of wine - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Kensington, California

My first bottle of wine that I purchased from Arlington Wine & Spirits was for my first Wedding. I won't hold that against them as the insight and selection that they offered then was second to none. Fast forward many years later. Many new wine shops have opened, but this is still one of the best. In other words, Don't change horses in the middle of the stream. read more

This place is great. As others have mentioned, the selection is small but very good. This goes for beer, wine, and whiskey. Most importantly, they really know their stuff. The owner knows pretty much about all the wine and spirits. He gives me excellent recommendations based on my budget, what I'm serving the wine with, etc. The younger guys really know the beer selection and have given good direction. In all, great customer service, great selection, and conveniently located. read more

This is a great place to buy wine. I cannot say enough positives about it. I have been coming here since I moved into the neighborhood 10 years ago and have always been treated well. The wine is excellent, the prices reasonable and the owners are very knowledgeable without being pretentious. My go to place for wine and good local vibes. read more

Summary based on several visits: --good selection --helpful advice --competitive prices --easy parking read more

Arlington Wine & Spirits - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Kensington, California

I have been shopping here for about 5 years. The owners, who also work in the store, are extremely knowledgeable about wine and spirits - which stands to reason. At the same time, they are very friendly and helpful with liquor neophytes like myself. I like to pretend I know something about wine and scotch, but truth be told... I know nothing. A quick aside, completely off topic - every time I use that phrase, "I know nothing," which is more and more often these days as I socratically learn how little I really know - CNBC's Jim Cramer's rant against Bernanke and the Fed, "THEY HAVE NO IDEA WHAT IS GOING ON OUT THERE, THEY KNOW NOTHING," goes through my head. Anyway, I digress... This is a great place that is well stocked with anything you could possibly want in the way of wine or spirits and peopled by extremely friendly people who seem to love what they do. read more

I digress, this is another location I have a thousand years worth of history When I was a wee little sprog, it was the variety store. Lots of toys, candy, and other various sundries. I used to buy lots of bubble gum here for $1.00 or a hundred pieces It was a sad day when the variety store closed. A part of my childhood gone. Arlington Wine & Spirits is a boutique of select wines and spirits. I have only been here a couple of times to buy Veuve Clicquot splits for myself for New Year's Eve celebrations. The service at Arlington Wine & Spirits can range from stellar to not so stellar at all. The last time I was here, the grumpy guy was the one behind the till. I agree with the other reviewer(s): ask for Allan, he is so nice and such a sweetheart. Always has a smile on his face and makes the customer feel welcome. I do plan to return to give the place another chance once I start earning wages again. Though it pains me to say that The Family and I could get better deals elsewhere on wines and spirits. Apologies. read more

I started with the intention of giving this shop four stars but then realized that I have absolutely negative to say about it. So five stars it is. Before going into details, I'll point out that Arlington has an annual 20% off sale that begins January 2 (i.e., today) and lasts for about two weeks. I was there a couple of hours ago and bought a mixed case. While I was browsing, two or three customers walked in with the same intention. So get on up there and come early if you want the best possible selection. (Pay by check or in cash to get the full 20%. Credit card customers get 15% off.) A general description of this store is that it has a very small inventory of very well chosen wines, most of which are what I would term moderately priced ($12 average, let's say). Basically all categories of wine and all wine-producing countries are represented. I didn't see any Long Island North Fork merlot or Canadian ice wine, but I didn't feel that choices were all that limited. The shop serves neighbors who come in asking for recommendations -- I did actually overhear a customer asking for a white that would go well with steak. The shop does an extremely good job, in my humble opinion. I ought to shop here more often, and maybe I will. That can be my New Year's resolution (the only one so far). One more comment: there's more than wine, as the business name suggests. You'll find beer in the cooler, hard liquor on the shelf, and cigars in a display case. The proprietors are friendly, and they really know their snuff. read more

Syrah, shiraz, tomato, tomatah - I know nearly nothing about wine. So, with my very limited knowledge, I must often enlist the patient, unpretentious help of Alan, one of the friendly and knowledgeable proprietors of the charming Arlington Wine & Spirits, a small but well edited wine shop in Kensington. The shop is full of very interesting wine, beer and spirits, and his picks, mostly in the $16-$25 range, have been so remarkable, I often return a few days later for a another bottle. Bottoms-up! read more

Absolutely love coming to this boutique spirits store where the staff genuinely cares about their customers and is knowledgeable enough to offer real advice! read more

Arlington Wine and Spirits has become my regular wine shop. It's small and unpretentious, yet filled with an amazing assortment of interesting wines at reasonable prices. When I shop here, I generally begin by telling one of the friendly proprietors that I want a mixed case, and he gently elicits from me the pertinent information - price range, style of wine that I prefer, and so forth. We then take a walk around the shop as he selects wines, discussing and explaining each bottle as we take our little tour. After we conclude the sale, they happily carry the case to my car. The guys here really seem to enjoy what they're doing - no snooty wine snobs here - just great wines and service. I have never been disappointed with a single bottle from Arlington Wine and Spirits. They seem to have an uncanny ability to choose wines that suit my palate! I purchased a couple of mixed cases of wine for a large dinner party, and my guests raved about the delicious libations. Each bottle was in the less-than-$20 price range. If you pay with cash or a check, the proprietors will reward you with a 15 percent case discount. read more

I'm reading some of these reviews and have to chuckle, references like, old guys. Heck, the owners are my age and believe me, we are NOT old! And the old boy's club? I frequently see women in there, getting good service to boot! They know their wines, and they can tell you the back story on everything they sell. You may save a few pennies at Costco or BevMo but you will sacrifice service and selection big time. This store has a homey, local vibe that is rare these days. Highly recommend when you need to buy a special bottle for someone or simply need to fill your home collection. read more

This androgyne reviews in Haiku. Always very best. Arlington Ave., crave, then taste Spirits, Beers, lush Wines. Ten Stars to the inviting façade; To the approachable and pro, never pushy and often amiable shopkeeps; Affordably cultivated selection of mmmmms. Update 1/10/16 This shop is wonderful but I won't be going any longer unless its for ginger beer. Choosing to not drink alcohol and it feels wonderful. read more

Had a nice stop by here after a breakfast at Inn Kensington with Mom, Moses and Dmitri. Got a dank ginger ale which was very flavorful. One of those good sodas you wouldn't find in your typical grocery store. The guys were cool, they cracked a few jokes and such. If I were Kensington resident, I'd probably come here for my wine fix; the employees were talking to a customer and they seemed to be real helpful. read more

I live in Kensington, very close by. They have a pretty good selection for a neighborhood wine shop. The people are nice and helpful. They have a good selection of domestics and imports, but seem to slant more towards imports. And they have different price points from daily drinkers to high-end wines. Great selection of craft beer too! read more

Love this place. Run by extremely friendly and informed folks - always willing to make a recommendation or share the story behind the beverage. Great variety and top quality wine/spirits. Highly recommend. read more

This is my favorite place for buying wine for teacher gifts and St. George Spirits for my husband. I admit I sometimes feel like I'm walking in on some old boys club. I'm often the only woman in the shop and it's a tad uncomfortable while I wait for assistance. But once someone helps me select a wine, that feeling goes away. I can tell them what kind of wine someone likes and what my budget is, and they always suggest something that gets rave reviews from the recipient. Sometimes the best bottle is less expensive than my budget, and time after time they opt for the best wine as opposed to what will give them the bigger sale. I appreciate that! I also appreciate that they will box or wrap your gift and offer to carry bulkier purchases to your car. Avoid bringing young children here unless you're trying to prove you have a need to drink. It's a small space with lots of bottles near the floor. You'll worry about something getting broken. read more

Excellent small shop. Fair prices. They'll work with you to find things you like. And they're really nice people.

I can't personally comment about the wine because I know nothing about wine, but the service from Alan was SUPERB. I walked in knowing the price range and roughly what type of wine I wanted to buy for a gift. Alan immediately dove into the stacks and pulled out a bottle that was on the lower end of the price span I'd given him. Other places I've gone with similar parameters have either tried to get me to buy wine above my price limit or wouldn't believe me when I told them I knew nothing about wine and would hand me 5 options to choose from (why would I lie about knowing zippo about wine?). Alan made things super easy and economical. He explained why he'd chosen the wine he did and wrapped up the bottle in a nice little gift bag. And he did it with a huge smile the whole time. The wines may be a bit on the pricier end, but sometimes it's worth it to get such nice and knowledgeable service. read more

great place to buy Pliny the Elder beer!

They supplied all the wine for our 30th Anniversary party at The Framer's Workshop, It is so nice to deal with an owner operated local business. Thank you! read more

We love this place! They have a great selection, and try to keep their offerings great at great prices. It's the kind of place where the owners of the store get to know you, get to know your tastes, and then can offer you wine that they know you'll love. Great service with ZERO attitude and ego. Just the right stuff. read more

They are so nice,information,knowledgeable and helpful.I bought 2 inexpensive wines and we were looking for a Birthday gift,3 of us chip in most years that my friend enjoys,for her BD.It's to make a Beautiful, a drink with ,Grand Mainer and Courvoisier Cognac.They didn't have the cognac because it's not a big seller there ,but we got the Grand Mainer for a little cheaper then Bev Mo and I definetley want to support them and give them my business.One of the guys talked to my friend about beers because she was going to buy a couple pricey ones for a gift.He was so patient,knew so much , he was so informative,although it went over my head (beer is not my thing but now I want t to try some,not heavy ones)and gave her a lot of time.I would highly recommend this place and want to support them.The place is small but they cram a lot of things in it.I had no problem or felt uncomfortable because I am a woman.Yes it was more men there but there was another woman and no one made me feel uncomfortably and my friend and I were definetley not talked down to or patronized.They were definetley welcoming and friendly and answered questions without us feeling they were dumb questions. read more

Not a favorable impression on my first visit. Called about a particular beer and whomever answered the phone was rude, abrupt and didn't project courtesy . I decided to visit the store in person anyways and when entering the store I asked where the beer section was , only to be treated as if I was interrupting a private dinner party. I found the service grumpy, and not sure if they were the owners or two pissed off employees. Also found the beer way cheaper at Ledgers in Berkeley. I won't be back, life's too short to deal with overpriced cranky pants . read more

There is no better wine store in the bay area. Good prices and very insightful service. If you want "old world" advice ask for that friendly bald guy Alan. He's all over it like white on rice! Boosh! read more

In addition to wine, Arlington Wine & Spirits also carries a great selection of craft beers. My husband and I have fun poking our heads in to see what new brew they have in stock. Also, they have more selection in the back, so if there's something that you want but don't see, just ask! I was pleasantly surprised when I did. The last time I went in, I was pushing a baby stroller - the guys opened and closed the door and helped me out to the car. Great service and decent prices! read more

I drive at least once a week over the Arlington but never stopped at Wine & Spirits till 3 weeks ago. I was surprised about the collection they sell. The people are very helpful, there wine choice is great and absolutely not overprized. read more

Not being much of a wine drinker, the gentlemen who work here always have great recommendations for a gift or a dinner we're hosting. Always helpful and friendly. read more