Monday, June 16, 2008

Members of the Club: The Wine Specialist and Central Liquors

OK CA Scotch Chick, while you've been having a fab time in NYC, DC Scotch Chick has down here in the capital doing some playing of her own. And, she can't wait for your visit next month so she can finally show you what she's found.

DC may not be able to compete with NYC when it comes to restaurants but it sure can hold it's own when it comes to liquor stores specializing in single malt whisky. DC is home to two of the top rated stores for single malt connoisseurs according to Malt Advocate: The Wine Specialist, with over 300 single malts, and Central Liquor which has over 200. DC Scotch Chick has been a frequent visitor of Central Liquor for several years and only recently discovered The Wine Specialist after seeing it's placement in Malt Advocate's 300 Club. Both establishments are conveniently located within walking distances of metro stops, a definite bonus.

DC Scotch Chick was a little put off by the name of the Wine Specialist, expecting the place to be full of wine snobs, but was quite surprised by the unpretentiousness of the store and staff. And to her surprise the Scotch was right up in the front of the store so there was no need to go on a wild goose chase. The staff was enthusiastic about it's offerings and even though they couldn't immediately locate the Glen Rothes Signatory Un-Chillfiltered 12 Yr that DC Scotch Chick was looking for they offered to order it for her right away. Alas, chivalry is not dead! DC Scotch Chick, not one to be put off by crawling around on her hands and knees, was able to locate it on her own. Score!!

The Wine Specialist periodically holds single malt whisky tastings and offers special day-of-tasting pricing. DC Scotch Chick also inquired about the Malt Advocate membership discount and was glad to learn that the discount is 10%. This discount will surely pay for her membership.

Just as the name 'The Wine Specialist' is apt to fool, the Russian speaking owners of Central Liquor may make you believe that this is more of a vodka haunt than a scotch one. That is of course until you see the large wall of scotch. It's nothing short of beautiful and there are over 200 to choose from. The service here is also worth mentioning. Several years ago DC Scotch Gent picked up a special bottle of Glen Rothes as a birthday gift and upon giving the bottle to it's recipient noticed that the cork had been busted. Returning the scotch for a full refund was no problem. And not only does Central honor the 10% Malt Advocate membership discount, it is situated next door to the Cowgirl Creamery where one can pick up amazing butter and aged gouda. Yet another reason for a field trip.

Store The Wine Specialist
Address 2115 M St. NW
Washington, DC 20037 www.winespecialist.com
Foggy Bottom Metro
Hours M-T 10am-9pm
F-S 10am-10pm
Closed Sundays.
Service Excellent

Store Central Liquor
Address 917 F. St.
Washington, DC 20004 www.centralliquors.com
Metro Center Metro
Hours M-S 10am-8pm
Closed Sundays.
Service Excellent

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