Raising a glass (or bottle)

by Sean McCarthy

For those who enjoy alcohol, the experience can vary from simple to sophisticated. For those who enjoy alcohol, the experience can vary from simple to sophisticated. Whether you’re picking up beer for the weekend, in search of a high-end wine for a special occasion, or you’re just interested in trying something new, Stevie’s Wine & Spirits provides the selection, atmosphere, and staff that understands the alcohol experience is something unique and personal to each customer.

Since opening in June of last year, this Fairhaven business has established a reputation for quality, variety, and care for its clientele’s interests. From the moment you walk in the door you will notice the difference Stevie’s makes.

Whether it’s their weekly wine and whiskey tastings, their welcoming ambiance, or their expansive array of products, this local establishment provides for all who seek an enjoyable alcohol-buying experience.

And if you wish to expand your palette of tastes, you’ve found your store. In addition to free wine and whiskey tastings on Fridays and Saturdays, the store has a “purple sticker policy” – if you see a product on their shelves with a purple dot sticker on it, you will be able to sample it free of charge before purchasing it. They also offer special tasting events at the store to introduce visitors to liquor they may not already be familiar with. On Cinco de Mayo, they hosted a Tequila-tasting event, and later that month they offered “Ginapalooza” to educate customers in the world of gin. The store occasionally hosts beer tastings.

“Our tastings are what set us apart from other liquor stores,” says Manager Stevie Pimentel. “Some alcohol can be intimidating, so we can show you how to style it, things to mix it with and make it more to your liking. If you’re looking to explore and learn about new things we can help you do that.” Wine and whiskey tastings are held Fridays from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Some wines are also available for tasting throughout the week. The store also features a whiskey room, offering an array of scotches, bourbons, and ryes. Stevie’s prides itself on a clean, spacious, and well-lit environment, in addition to their wide variety of brands. “Whether you’re picking up a 12-pack of Budweiser or you’re looking for a wine from another part of the world, we probably have what you’re looking for,” says General Manager Matt Feightner. “We get a lot of customers who are members of the regional liquor industry, such as distributors, importers, and people in the restaurant business. They like our variety – we have a lot of unique things you can’t find anywhere else. If we don’t have something you’re looking for, we’ll do our very best to get it for you quickly.”

And they’ll get it to you with a personable demeanor.

“A lot of liquor stores have a cold, warehouse-like feel,” Pimentel says. “But we have a warm, welcoming atmosphere with people who are ready to help you. That plays a large role in why people keep coming back. Sometimes people will come in looking for a recommendation for something, and we’re happy to help them.”

Stevie’s is owned by Stephen Ward, a businessman who has experienced success in the regional dairy industry. Stevie’s is located at 115 Huttleston Ave., Route 6. It is in the former locations of Dorothy Cox’s Chocolates, as well as Emma Jean’s, a bakery, ice cream, and candy store.

“We always have someone here to help the customer,” Feightner says. “We’ve got both the familiar and the new, the local and the international. If you’re looking for something you can’t find anywhere else, or you’re not exactly sure what you’re looking for, you can come see us.”

For more information visit stevieswineandspirits.com.