Hi guys. Instead of a craft beer review today I thought I would change it up a bit and give you a little tour of this new bottle shop that I’ve been going to lately.
The place is called Wino’s Depot and it is located at 2440 Nashville Rd. Ste 103 in Bowling Green, KY.
You guys may recall that I wrote a piece about Chuck’s Wine and Spirits (also located in Bowling Green) a little over a year ago. That particular store had been my primary place of business for quite some time, however since I found out about Wino’s, all that has changed. I would say that the main reason I explore Wino’s now instead of Chuck’s is that Blake Layne, who used to be employed at Chuck’s and oversaw all of the beer and wine there, is now part owner of this new facility. He basically invited me to come and take a look around at his new adventure…. so I did…. and boy, was I glad I did.
Now, when I first arrived they weren’t even officially open for business. I walked through the door sometime before Christmas, yet they didn’t have their official opening until sometime in January. None the less, I could still tell that this place was going to be something special and a place that I would want to come back to on a regular basis. Every time that I have visited since they have made subtle changes and continued to bring in new and outstanding product.
During my most recent visit (May 25th) I thought I would take my camera and snap a few pictures to give you an idea of what kind of place I have the privilege of frequenting regularly now.
As customers walk through the front door they are greeted with a very inviting lounge section and faux fireplace for relaxing conversation and contemplation of their chosen beverage.
Adjacent to the lounge area is a small bar section
As one rounds the corner of the bar they are greeted with this wonderful sight!!!
Twenty taps that are constantly being rotated for growler fills, samples, pints and snifter pours.
For today’s visit I chose the Dogfish Head 120 Minute IPA. Mmmm…. delicious.
Blake then asked if I would like to see the cooler. Can you say, “controlled chaos”?
All of those barrels stacked on top of one another was definitely a beautiful sight.
After taking a peek at those kegs I wanted to start shopping for myself and needless to say…. they had plenty for me to choose from.
Considerable choices from Jolly Pumpkin….
As well as several of the Trappistes offerings.
Some tasty favorites from Fantome….
And just within the last few months, Sixpoint Brewery has made it to our area.
Quite a few Mikkeller brews are always available too.
Another brewery that I’ve been exploring lately has been Mahr’s Brau.
Also, here are a few different bottles from Pretty Things while an Avery Maharaja eases into the picture.
Not only do they sell amazing craft beer, but the wine selection is top notch as well.
How ’bout a small, but solid selection of cigars?
And what trip to the Bluegrass State would be complete without checking out some of the world-class varieties of Kentucky Bourbon/Whiskey?
Granted, Wino’s Depot is still in its infancy, but I have no doubt that this could be THE place to visit when shopping for craft beer, wine and spirits in Kentucky. They pride themselves on quality not quantity. One of the most amazing things about the store is that they do absolutely no advertising aside from posting on Facebook. Why, the day I visited, Blake put Three Floyds Dreadnaught on tap, made a quick post and, literally, within 15 minutes people were walking in asking for snifter pours. And you never know what kind of beer geeks you may run into there. I’ve only been there about 4 times in total and have met distributors from Stone, Three Floyds and Goose Island. Different breweries are planning on doing several tap “takeovers” as they go along as well. Some big dogs like Founders, Bells and Schlafly have already made arrangements to showcase their brews.
So, if you guys ever happen to be in the Southern Kentucky town of Bowling Green, be sure to stop by Wino’s Depot, take a look around and pick up a bottle or two. Ask for Blake Layne because he is sure to be able to answer any questions you may have and provide a little something to satisfy any beer need.
I want to thank Blake and all of the employees at Wino’s for making me feel welcome and for allowing me to take a few pictures for you guys. I’m already looking forward to my next road trip to Bowling Green to see what new and unique beers I might run across.
Thanks for reading and commenting everyone. I really appreciate it.
Until next time. Cheers!!!!
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