This is an institution of sorts…..their selection of French wines is strong — all other regions are adequate at best.

This is a very large space — and the do dedicate a lot of space to a deli — that isn’t bad and must say it is great to have some decent cheeses in wine store….but all the coffee and that stuff — give me more space for a greater selection of wines!

Overall I would not classify this as the best wine store in the area — but they do have some great deals and the staff is professional and know what they are talking about — on the weekends it can be so busy that it is usually difficult to get help — and just too many people to enjoy the whole experience.

One of my biggest issues with the store is the staff. There are a couple of staff that I simply would not employ if I owned the store.

There are 2 other staff members that really know there wine — one of them is quite friendly and helpful. The other is a bit cold and takes some time and effort to warm up.

They do have some very interesting events — like tastings with Robert Kacher — which is something that doesn’t happen every day at every wine store. Certainly the best selection of Kacher wines in the DC area — and you should definitely check out his wines if you don’t know who he is…..best rose selection in DC as well. One of the few places in the country that has the trip of rose wines from D’Edclans — which are a must.

There is also a deli and a good spirits selection — but I am still surprised at the crowds and the reputation — maybe it’s just me…..this is a very good wine store — but THE wine store?

I would rather spend my money at Arrowine, granted they don’t have the same selection — but the overall experience and customer service is better. I would also mention MacArthur Beverages, Schneider’s, Dean & Deluca (CA wine selection only) and the Wine Specialist (they would do better if they didn’t suffer from spotty service as well).