Nowadays…read more....
There are sooooo many options of where you can purchase your adult beverage of choice.
A recently turned 21 year old with no experience or even your middle-aged neighbor who you know is an absolute Lush now that she's retired will likely go to a Drug store like Rite Aid or CVS to get their weekly supply.
Word on the streets is, they have amazing boxed wines ;)
"I'll take a glass of your finest Franzia Cab."
A busy Mom of 3 will probably pick up a bottle of her favorite "red"...
And you know Stella Rosa is at the top of her list.
I mean, might as well treat herself when she gets home after knocking out the bi-weekly grocery run.
Am I right?
Then there is always that one college kid on his way to a house party who for sure is going to stop at his local liquor store to grab a 30-pack so he can prove that he is once and for all, The Beer Pong King to all of his friends and that one girl he has been so desperately trying to impress.
Best of luck my man!
Or what about that recently remarried Dad who loves a good deal on wine and wants to stock up for that upcoming wine mixer that his young new bride wants to throw for this weekends Labor Day Soirée.
I mean, Kirkland Signature Label has got to be legit right? I hear they also make a very tasty dog food as well ;)
Just teasing ya Costco... I still love you.
And finally, there's that one store, the museum of all things Alcohol.
You know, The Total Wine's of the world.
I remember my first time stepping into this place, and I was in awe.
Aisles and Aisles and more Aisles of every spirit, liqueur, wine, or beer you can possibly imagine.
But as impressive as all of this is, it's a bit overwhelming and it can be difficult making a clear choice with so many damn options to choose from.
And then.....
There. Was. One.
Agoura Wine & Beer
This space is refined, elegant and is welcoming to all who enter.
With only one aisle that is lined floor to ceiling with both local and regional wines, & of course a small selection of craft beers, there is no doubt that you will find something here that you will love.
Questions?
Need a recommendation??
Still wondering the difference
between Petite Sirah and Syrah aka Shiraz???
Yeah, me too.
Well there's no need to wander aisle after aisle looking for someone to assist you like the other places above.
Just ask one of their friendly staff who will be happy to help guide to what you are looking for.
Wait!!
What is that at the end of the store?
Wine tasting? Beer sampling??...
Move out of the way kids, Daddy needs to check this out.
Yes, they have a small bar top in the back and a patio out back where you can wine taste or have one of their rotating beers on tap.
(Sorry, no one under 21 in the back area, but hey, that's ok, we all need a little adult time).
They do have a few packaged small bites available, but feel free to bring outside food.
(there are a few nice eateries in the same Whizin's shopping center; my vote is for Two Doughs Pizza!)
So...
To my Conejo Valley and Adjacent locals who are looking for a little more intimate wine purchasing experience whether on Domestic or Imported Wines or even local craft beers...
I say, come check out Agoura Wine & Beer.
Have a nice glass of wine or a hefty pour of beer and then get some one-on-one time with of of their staff who can recommend a bottle or two or even three to bring home to enjoy later.
Pro Tip:
If they happen to ask you, what is your favorite kind of wine, for the love of God, please don't say "boxed".
Instead...
1) Say your varietal. (Cab. Pinot, Chenin Blanc, Burgundy, etc.)
2) If you don't know that, at least throw out a color (white/red/rosé)
3) heck, throw out your favorite vintage, maybe they have the "good stuff" in the back.
So, who's ready to go wine/beer shopping?
I'll be waiting by the bar!