Fabulous selection of Scotch Whisky!! Enjoyed the ability to sample various brands and hear the background behind the distillation and tasting notes of each provided by the staff. read more

This is a tiny but charming wines and spirit shop with great employees. Though it seems small, this space opens up quite large as they have a cellar full of different spirits. The prices are competitive and they're the cheapest place to get cold water in the area, check them out.! read more

This is a hole in the wall with a secret treasure downstairs, underneath the roads above: It has a fantastic wine cellar with an incredibly knowledgeable staff, Len (the proprietor) in particular. These folks really, really know their wines, and they are very passionate. They will work with you to find you exactly what you are looking for. From something nice for the every day to something majestic for a Saturday night or special occasion. And their scotch selection is also fantastic. Joe, the manager of the scotch business there, is equally knowledgeable and passionate. This is a wonderful hidden gem in plain sight. It looks like a cheap packie, but man, what a shop. read more

Pretty much the Lords of imbibing fine wine and spirits. I never ask for anything specific. Budget and tastes or meals. Incredible purveyors. read more

Incredible selection of rare wines at extremely reasonable prices. Owner is extremely humble and helpful. Cannot recommend enough.

I'm glad the shop chose to use my picture featuring this sign, but it seems disturbing. Pardon my French but does it not mean: Alcoholism turns men to brutes, children to victim, women to martyrs?? I guess truth in advertising is still a thing! Anyway we listened to a tour outside the Old State Building for a bit, then headed inside for Kosher wine for a friend. We were directed downstairs, and a nice guy (Phil? Dave?) directed us to a small but nice selection. It was limited of course because no Jewish holidays were taking place. They gave us nice wrapping paper for it too. Move slowly, and avoid wearing backpacks and heavy accessories, it is very tight down there among the nice wines, and they probably have a 'you break it you buy it policy'! read more

Federal Wine & Spirits - the inside of a cellar - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Impressive selection of wine! I fell like I fell into Europe when I went down the stairs.

A small store with a very nice selection of whisk(e)y (what I came in to look at) and friendly staff. Had a very nice stop while in town and grabbed something I don't usually find back home. Thank you! read more

Wide selection of single malt scotch, knowledgeable staff, rare finds! Would highly recommend to any SMSW fans. I went on a liquor hunt around Boston and they had the most and best selection. Not to mention, tax free! read more

This liquor store has a wonderful selection... a wide range of affordable wine and spirits. Staff: friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. THE DEAL: sign up for their mailing list to attend their FREE wine tastings in Boston! read more

Oh my stars, this place is TINY! Do not come here if you're like a bull in a china shop because the shelves don't look sturdy enough to hold their contents as it is. Do not come here for an upscale wine-shopping experience as they clearly did not spend any time on sleek 'n' chic decor (a la Central Bottle). Do come here for the free Wednesday tastings. Our party of 12 or so people squeezed into the absolutely tiny, squashed downstairs (preceded by the narrowest, most rickety little winding staircase ever) and had a pretty enjoyable time with the 7+ wines they kept pouring us. The featured wines themselves were on the whole underwhelming save for the last, but they poured pretty generous portions and were very knowledgeable of the different varietals. One of the staff, an older gentleman, was of the more snotty, old school wine snob type, but the rest were very friendly. Interesting selection, too. Found a very strangely shaped bottle (curvy, to one side) of either Chilean or Argentinean wine (couldn't tell and it didn't say "Product of..." anywhere) that I'd never seen before. If I hadn't been about to imbibe a ton of free wine and then go to a crowded Happy Hour dinner, I would've bought it. Will be back another Wednesday. read more

A lot of rare wines and liquors, but they have Newbury Street pricing if you catch my drift. Just shop around first before committing.

This place is wonderful. I like to go in with parameters and let the folks who work there find something. Last time I went in, I said, "I'm looking for a light bodied red under $20." I walked out less than 5 minutes later with a truly delicious wine for $14.99 that I can't wait to re-buy. read more

I don't do well in tight spaces surrounded by breakable objects... *flashbacks to antique shopping with mommy dearest* It's nice to have options when it comes to purchasing some booze in the financial district - PBR tall boys at work on random Friday afternoons are fine by me. But buyer beware, the moment you step inside this shop you're pretty much standing in line for check out. Prepare to watch your elbows and squeeeeeeeeeze into the beer fridges. You may be better off (or forced) to ask one of the clerks to grab items for you. It's like you gotta be Indiana Jones to maneuver this space without setting off a booby trap... *Apparently they offer wine tasting events in the basement. Could be cool. But all I need is some beer as I wait for the clock to strike WEEKEND* read more

Great location and close to where I stayed. They also offer delivery service which is very convenient. Price is really good and comparable to other places but not much varieties available. read more

One of a handful of businesses owned and operated by real enthusiasts, the fellows at Federal Wine & Sprits are happy to make a gift or drinking recommendation based on price, food, occasion or event. They have a great and varied selection of wines, including many hard-to-find vineyard-only bottlings. For a store of such lilliputian stature, the selection of single-malt scotches is brobdignagian in variety. Their prices are very competitive, and they won't forget to scrape the price tags off the bottles when you purchase them. Get to know them well enough and maybe they'll offer you a taste of something now and again. Small business shopping is where it's at, people. Cheers. read more

Tiny space with an insanely huge selection. These guys know their spirits, which is a rare thing to find these days. Joe is amazingly intelligent, cordial, and observant. Like stated previously, they have tastings which I will have to try. The next one is a fruit brandy tasting at the Omni Parker House. The highlight of coming in here, and why they will become a staple: The have Anchor's Junipero gin, one of the only gins that I've found drinkable. Not just drinkable though, sippable, neat. !!! (It's made in SF, but I've never been able to find a bottle on sale in SF, I've searched, having it here blows me away.) Great guys, great place, nice and small, I'll be back. read more

If you have some free time, a good sense of humor, are feeling social, open to learning something about the booze and are up to trying something new, this place is worth a stop. Go to Davis Square Liquors for your cheap Lambics btw. They have a few good beers, but not a large selection.... but its a wine and spirits shop... not a place to pick up beer. I've been here a few times. They are always helpful with finding that right scotch or whiskey or even saki for me. They try what they sell (and will often have a bottle open for you to try), so don't be afraid to ask what they recommend. They won't reach for the most expensive bottle. Today, I bought a bottle of whiskey for my friend's birthday. I asked for something different between 50 and 60 dollars. The cashier suggested a 49.99 bottle of Red Breast whiskey that he really enjoys, but lamented is probably going to be discontinued (they already discontinued the 15 year version). A few months ago I went in for a bottle of Saki. I only asked where they kept the Saki, and suddenly the cashier was pushing past the 50, 40 and 70 dollars, for a 15 dollar "Hidden Jewel" the attendant had tried last summer. "Last bottle" he declared... and seemed a bit remiss he hadn't bought it himself. It was an awesome bottle btw. I wish I remember what the brand was. Best of all are the free tastings. I hear they have wine tastings (haven't been) but I have wandered in on a Whiskey tasting from Jameson that was awesome. Its free and in a wine cellar basement that just adds to the atmosphere. Email Joe@federalwine.com for more info on the tastings. Sorry if I sound a bit like I'm selling the place, but the people here are really friendly and helpful. Thats starting to strike me as a rarity in Boston lately. Oh, last hint: If you see a guy pushing a broom, or carrying a box... don't stop him for advice. Go for the cashiers, even if you have to wait. If they don't know enough about the item, they'll get someone who does. read more

It's a weekday. You're at work in the downtown neighborhood. You realize that you have plans for a friend's birthday that evening and you have failed to purchase a gift. What is a good last minute gift? A winner with most non-alcoholics? Wine. I had never considered buying wine downtown. Usually I just grab it from Central Square (where I live). I ended up on Yelp to try and narrow down some spirits stores and came to Federal Wine & Spirits after reading some good reviews. They were right. This place is awesome-- especially, if you are like me and don't know anything about wine. Very unassuming place, I think I've walked past it a million times without noticing it. When I walked in around lunchtime, two guys were just sitting behind the counter, just waiting for someone to stop in-- I was the only customer. I explained my birthday friend situation and my inability to know anything about wine. They directed me down their little winding staircase to the basement (!) where two more guys were waiting to greet me. One took me to the back area and briefly discussed my price range and the person I was buying for. Very helpful and kind-- non-snobby considering my ignorance. There were crates of wine EVERYWHERE with racks of wine in the back-- they have a LOT of wine. I was in and out in about 10-15 minutes, yet I definitely didn't feel rushed. They didn't push me to buy any one thing and allowed me to make my own decision. Wine + Weekday + Downtown Boston = Federal Wine & Spirits. read more

Looks like an unassuming corner liquor store. Bums wandering out with unbreakable plastic bottles of vodka. Wine coolers in the fridge. But if you thought that, you'd be wrong. I mean as wrong as Michael Jackson's doctor. Arranged behind the counter and crammed in every nook from the shelves to the ceiling is Boston's best stock of whiskey. Possibly the east coast's best (Park Avenue Liquor... hmm). If whiskey is the force, then Joe behind the counter is Yoda. If you have a question about the peat balance in a Blackadder bottling of Highland Park, he'll know it. If you want to know which whisky is cheapest to mix with your discount RC cola, he'll know it. And if you make it downstairs, there are catacombs stacked with wine worthy of somewhere in Burgundy. Except they're also stacked with computers and papers. Great spot! read more

I came to this store because a friend of mine was in the hospital and several of us had chipped in to buy him a good bottle of whiskey as a get well present. I was out of my element because this was going to be out of my usual price range, and I prefer Scotches while my friend prefers Irish whiskey. Fortunately, the staff were thoroughly knowledgeable, had an extensive stock on hand, and happy to spend time figuring out the best bottle I could get. Everything turned out for the best, and I couldn't be happier. I'll definitely be going back whenever possible. Not to mention the free wine tastings every Wednesday ... I might finally take the time to broaden my experience along those lines now! read more

I went here after reading some of the reviews about their single malt selection. As others have stated, it is small but only from a physical space standpoint. They have a wonderful selection of single malts. Joe was a fount of information and patiently listened to my questions and offered excellent suggestions. I picked out a number of scotches for a tasting I am having as well as selecting a couple for my own personal collection. I was there just after work so it was busy but I thought the staff did a good job balancing helping people and checking others out. I loved that they scraped the price tags off. I know that's not a huge deal but it's nice and illustrates their personal touch. read more

Quirky little location downtown filled with super nice people. Yes, it is tiny but it is SO much nicer than some of those impersonal warehouses around town. You'll find some real knowledge here and the best wine selection around. You'll also see all kinds of eclectic customers popping in to buy a couple of cans of Bud, a fifth of bourbon and some wine....some really great wine. (Pre-snow storm stocking up is an interesting time to observe the drinking habits of Bostonians. God forbid we get snowed in and run out of booze.) I asked for a specific kind of wine from South Africa. Although they did not have it, they told me it would be easy to get and they're big fans of South African wine. I'll be back. read more

I stopped in on my trip to Boston and it was everything I read about in other reviews. I will stop back every time the guys were very knowledgeable in their bourbons and went out of there way to answer all my questions. read more

If you love Scotch & Bourbon you must know about this hidden gem. It looks like a small corner store, but they have the BEST selection I have ever seen and the prices are very good as well. The spirits "department" is run by Joe. He is extremely knowledgable and a chat with him is always worth the visit. I never leave without learning something new and sampling something new/rare. That's right - samples. Joe always has bottles open and he is more than willing to share. And I'm not talking about run of the mill stuff. I live in Newton, but will travel in to town just to visit Joe and pick up a special bottle of Scotch or Bourbon. read more

Federal Wine & Spirits is a wonderful shop - run by true aficionados of what they sell. The store is quirky, "old curiosity shop" in the best possible way - backed by knowledge of their product, and friendly service. They are happy to offer worthwhile suggestions if you ask them. Most times I have gone to them, I've been looking for a gift - a good quality bourbon, rye, or port. Joe is a wizard of bourbon, malt and rye. Their prices were in line with Boston - in a few cases, were actually below other places. Also, they do not gouge. When I was asked the price limit I had in mind, their top suggestion was below that price. And this to share: the last time I was in there, my credit card was rendered invalid - an over- zealous security feature related to travel. I handed over the cash I had on me - which was several dollars short of the price. They not only trusted me to take the item and return later with the difference, they made sure I had the wherewithal to get home. Wow. It's like a Mike Barnicle Christmas column - except it really happened. Business like it ought to be! read more

Walked in on a Thursday afternoon looking for some help selecting a Port or Madeira. Everyone at the shop completely ignored the fact that I was searching (no "how can I help you" here). After 10 minutes of wandering I found what I was looking for myself (Madeira from the Rare Wine Co.), but was so disgusted with the complete lack of customer service that I just walked out. I recommend the Wine and Cheese Cask in Somerville instead. read more

I have bought wine from here a few times now, each time hoping that the latest bottle will redeem this store in my eyes, and each time disappointed. I am generally not a wine snob but when something is undrinkable it is simply undrinkable. The staff are unhelpful and really indifferent to your business. Once the cashier voluntarily gift wrapped a bottle for me so that was nice. But the bottle still was pretty bad so I can't say it made up for it. I'd rather walk to the next closest wine store, Merchants on Water Street or pick up a bottle at Martignett's in the North End. Bottom line, avoid this place! read more

Federal Wine & Spirits - a street corner in a city - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Every five years, on my birthday that ends with a 5 or the ever-dreaded 0, I get a bottle of wine from the year I was born. It's not a cheap habit. I don't recommend it for the faint-hearted. But every five years, I make that call to Federal, and voila, they happen to have a wine for me just lying around. It's like they have a magic Harry Potter apparitioning closet or something in that teensy space. Not going to kid you, the place is, for my reckoning (whatever that's worth), one of the priciest stores in the area. But what they bring in is choice, prime, and guaranteed to impress your wine snob boss. It's serious stuff. And if you ever want to know anything about scotch, their guy (Joe?) is the freaking best. A walking whisky encyclopedia. So why am I dinging them with only three stars? I haven't been happy with their customer service. They're pleasant and polite, sure. But I've never felt welcome to browse there or take my time--it's like they want to get me in and out as soon as possible to make room in their little basement for the Fidelity fatcats who can afford to spend $800 a visit. And they sent me on a wild-goose-chase there and dropped the ball on follow-up. I purchased a certain small-production gin there; when it ran out, I called to see if they had more. The guy told me sure, there was a bottle, stop by, he'd put it aside. Well, when I made the special trip to get down there, nobody had set anything aside for me; in fact, the gin was sold out. They said they'd call when it was back. I'm still waiting to hear from them. In the interim, I found that gin for $10 less on Newbury Street. read more

After having terrible experiences at two other wine and liquor stores in the same day, this place was a welcome relief. The location is easy to get to, and the staff is super helpful. There is a massive wine selection, and they are not lacking in spirits either. Prices are not cheap but they are mid range, average for the area. There are tons of wines to choose from both downstairs and upstairs, and the staff are happy to let you sample wines. The place is very small though, so be careful. I felt a little nervous with so many glass bottles in such a small room! read more

My kind of wine shop. When you walk in, it feels like a corner liquor store, but descend down the stairs to the old basement and the treasure awaits. It's a bit disorganized at first glance but easy to get the hang of the layout. I ended up with a white Jura (savagnin done in the ouille style) that was hidden at the bottom a rack, and an Austrian white blend from two obscure native grapes (rotgipfler and zierfandler) I hadn't yet tried that was in their little bargain bin. Many places are afraid to carry wines like that. I like to support shops that aren't afraid of the off the beaten path wines. This shop would definitely be in my rotation if I lived in Boston. read more

I must have walked past this place a million times before stumbling upon it after a rather disappointing experience at BWX. Boy am I glad I did. It's a small space lacking the frills but, really, I couldn't care less. They are great where it counts. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and they have a great selection of wine and whiskey. I'm no wine snob but I do love the stuff. Too, I'm a sucker for a good story behind a grape or vineyard which is why I was sold when Peter regaled me with the story behind the Masseria Li Veli Susumaniello. I was a willing listener and for some wine chat but I bet you could get in and out pretty quickly if you had even the vaguest idea of what you were looking for. read more

The overall wine collection is great! Probably because of large amount of demand of great wine in Boston, some of rare wines on its list were sold out quickly. read more

wine tastings, cool but not what I come back for - scotch tasting. they have over 100 open bottles for you to try. AWESOME.

I have been hunting all over the city for a rare bottle bottle of Bruichladdich single malt Scotch whisky. I've been to at least half a dozen stores in Boston, Cambridge, and environs for this one bottle. Turns out, they have it right behind the counter at Federal Wine & Spirits, ready for me to buy. We get to talking about Jim McEwan, the Master Distiller at Bruichladdich who personally designed and created this particular whisky, and it turns out that Jim has done a personal appearance at the store. I am very impressed. I have found my go-to place for Single Malts. read more

Free wine tasting on wednesdays form 5:30-7:30! The staff is knowledgable and great for intelligent conversation. Don't be fooled by the harrowing stairs down to the basement...the cellar has a great "authentic" wine cellar feel read more

Came in asking about several bottles they have on the shelves - all seemed to be the guys "personal collection" and not for sale. Couldn't have been a worse experience. read more

This place is difficult to get to if you have a car, but it's well worth the effort. My experience here was second to none. Joe is a true whiskey aficionado comma he has access to some of the best malts you could ever imagine, and if it's possible to get it in the United States, he can get it for you. The stuff for friendly, helpful, and we're even kind enough to let me sample some excellent scotch. This is one of the few true remaining examples of people who would rather build a good business relationship than make a few quick bucks. I'm not a wine or beer drinker, but I will say that their selection of scotch is phenomenal comma and their prices are actually quite reasonable, even for some of the rarest stuff. I also have to give proper respect for the decor, there's some very nice original ceramic tiles on the walls. read more

I had high expectations going in, then realized you have to go down a narrow spiral stairway to go to the basement where most of the wine is. So narrow you can barely check it out. Hearing the young guy upstairs dropping f-bombs didn't add anything to the atmosphere. I did find some bottles to buy, could hear more f-bombs from the young guy upstairs ... really? Never really heard that from employees in a retailer before. Enough said. I'll stick with Marty's and Gordon's. read more

Ok, so this place isn't for people who don't care to learn about their wine/alcohol, but for someone who can appreciate a knowledgeable staff and unique/"outside the box" wine, this place is FANTASTIC. I have visited basically every major wine store in Boston (I'm in the industry...kind of) and Federal is by far one of the best. The staff knows what they're talking about and actually takes what they sell seriously. They'll take the time to explain certain wines to you and don't seem to buy wines just because it's what they "should" carry. One of the best things about this store is that they don't make you feel rushed. I've been to several places where the store is empty, yet the employees seem too busy to spend some time helping you. For serious wine drinkers (or those without a car), they have a great delivery service that saves you the hassle of dragging the bottles home. read more