Most wine enters our lives through retail, whether that means loading up our digital shopping carts, popping into our local shop or visiting a far-flung boutique based on its point of view. These stores and their staff become trusted advisors and guides through the world of wine. They have the ability to turn casual drinkers into passionate hobbyists or collectors, and it’s only right that we honor them for making the wine world richer and more welcoming.
As with Wine Enthusiast’s other awards and best-of lists, this was created by our team of editors sharing their opinions and experiences. There’s no nomination or submission process or fee, simply a group of people who love wine discussing what makes a great shop. Here, you’ll find a guide to shops across the country waiting to help you select your next favorite bottle.