Mike L.
Yelp
This place is a welcome addition to the community, in the Grand Lake/Lakeshore Commercial District in walking distance from Grand Lake Theater and Lake Merritt. This location used to be Alchemy Bottle Shop, some new owners are here. The owners seem to be homegrown Oaklanders of color who were affiliated among other things with local Red Bay Coffee.
This place has a pretty eclectic collection of wine and spirits. One of the owners, Kori, was mentioning that in their wine section they're trying to promote less known people of color owned wineries which I think is really cool. It was just Kori working when I was there but he seemed very knowledgeable with questions about wine and about whiskey (which is my jam), I really appreciate folks who are passionate about their craft.
More so focusing on their whiskey/scotch section, they had a great selection, including local Oakland based distillery Wright & Brown. They also have different types of Whiskey (Irish, Bourbon, Japanese, Taiwanese). I can't comment on what their prices are compared to other places but I also wouldn't mind spending a little more to support a local business as opposed to a chain like Bevmo.
I ended up getting a bottle of Kavalan, Taiwanese Whiskey, which I've always wanted to try but never got a chance to. My supplies are running low as a result of Shelter In Place so this is good timing.
They are currently open during this COVID time, limiting the number of people inside to maintain social distancing.
Support them, and DRINK RESPONSIBLY!