Spirits Abound at Cork and Bottle

By Wine Press Staff

As most Oregonians know, when planning a party that includes both Scotch and Syrah, you have two trips to make; and that’s if you remember everything on your libation list the first time — as you know, this rarely happens.

The majority of Oregon’s liquor stores — 150 of the 242 — are exclusive to liquor; while only about 80 are non-exclusive, which means they are operated in conjunction with other businesses like hardware, drug or grocery stores. Most of the latter types are located outside metropolitan areas, so the convenience factor of these stores is lost on their remote locations. The shortage of liquor/wine/beer stores has created a real thirst for one-stop shops.

In Springfield, the desire for practicality has now been quenched. Cork & Bottle Shoppe has added wine — and craft beer — to its lines of liquor.

Owner/liquor agent Saleem Noorani is excited about his new inventory, and plans to have about 100 wineries represented, translating to about 300 SKUs. His goal is to have a significant selection of boutique producers and host Friday evening wine tastings at the store.

For more information about Cork & Bottle, please visit www.oregonliquor.com.