Summit County is home to a vibrant community of small, independent liquor stores. These local businesses are cornerstones of our neighborhoods.
However, these stores are facing increasing pressure from the new law allowing grocery stores and big box retailers to sell wine. While the convenience may be tempting, we encourage residents to continue supporting local stores.
Because here’s the deal – when you shop at independent liquor stores, more money stays in Summit County. Rather than getting shipped out of state to corporate headquarters, you’re actually supporting our friends and neighbors who have invested in this community we all call home.
So, let’s show our favorite Summit County local liquor stores some love in this guide to buying local!
Dillon Ridge Liquors
A favorite of Summit County residents, Dillon Ridge Liquors has proudly served the community since 1997.
Conveniently located next to City Market in Dillon, this store offers plenty of parking as well as top-notch customer service from their friendly, knowledgeable staff. Dillon Ridge takes great pride in their reputation, having been voted the best liquor store in Summit County for 19 years running. They also support many community events, non-profits, and even youth soccer, as a key contributor in our community.
When you shop at Dillon Ridge, you can expect a wide variety of options you won’t find at the grocery store, ranging from specialty wines and liquors to local beer and spirits. Supporting this local small business means keeping your dollars right here in Summit County.
Local’s Liquors
Local’s Liquors started out small – just a 900-square-foot shop tucked away in Silverthorne back in 2005. But with devoted support from the community over the years, they have been able to expand to a more sizable 4500 square foot location right on Blue River Parkway.
As their name suggests, Local’s Liquors is all about giving back to the people and places that helped them grow. Next time you’re looking for some wine or spirits in Silverthorne, stop by Local’s Liquors for a wide variety ranging from specialty liqueurs to bourbon to gluten-free beer.
As their loyal customers know, you can always count on the staff at Local’s to steer you towards the perfect drink options for any occasion.
The Bottle Shop
The Bottle Shop opened in Spring 2022, bringing a bright, lively spirit to the Summit Cove neighborhood west of Keystone Resort. What makes this shop stand out is its focus on fostering community. The Bottle Shop prioritizes stocking local and Colorado-made beer, wine, and spirits – visitors can create custom 6-packs to taste various local flavors.
They also host a monthly “3rd Thursday” happy hour, partnering with other small businesses to pair wines and spirits with snacks like cheese, bread, and chocolate. At these events, locals share their amateur yet spirited sommelier recommendations. With its emphasis on highlighting regional brands, bringing people together, and serving the neighborhood, The Bottle Shop embodies what it means to shop small and shop local.
Basecamp Wine and Spirits
Basecamp Wine & Spirits is a must-visit local shop that boasts one of the largest selection of liquor in the county. Basecamp prides itself on stocking popular national brands and harder-to-find craft beers, artisan wines, small-batch spirits, and exceptional seasonal offerings.
When you browse the spacious Basecamp store, you’ll discover new favorite boutique labels and your usual go-to drinks – all while supporting a Summit County-owned small business. Whether you’re looking for a rare vintage, a local vodka, or just need to stock up for holiday parties, make Basecamp your one-stop shop and buy local this season.
City Liquors
Nestled right next to City Market in Breckenridge, City Liquors impresses shoppers with its diverse drink selection aimed to please every palate. You’ll discover walls of wine ranging from affordable table bottles to fine vintages, an extensive array of single malt scotches, and a large variety of craft beers and kegs.
As a small business owner right here in Summit County for over 10 years, the owner of City Liquors supports this community and invites you to become one of their loyal regulars this holiday season.
Breckenridge Market and Liquor
A staple in the Breckenridge community, locally-owned Breckenridge Market & Liquor takes pride in providing a convenient, one-stop shop for all your grocery and drink needs while focusing on friendly customer service.
As a family-owned neighborhood store, Breckenridge Market supports the local economy and reinvests in the community in so many valuable ways – creating local jobs, partnering with other small businesses, dedicating years of food and drink expertise, and more.
And while you can certainly check off all your usual errands with their everyday essentials and specialty selection, Breckenridge Market encourages residents to slow down and shop small whenever possible.
Antlers Liquor and Wine Cellar
A longtime local establishment, Antlers Liquor and Wine Cellar is rallying support around a key initiative – keeping liquor licensing decisions at the local level. As one of over 1,600 small, independent liquor stores in Colorado, Antlers provides personalized service that chain retailers simply cannot match.
Their expert staff offers recommendations based on your budget and taste preferences while ensuring responsible sales and community safety. Antlers proudly stocks the largest variety of local craft beers, wines, and spirits in the county – varieties that likely wouldn’t make it onto chain stores’ shelves.
When you shop at Antlers, not only do you get this specialized experience, but you also support the web of local producers, distributors, and small businesses who help build Summit County’s distinctive character.
Why Shop Local in Summit County?
- Keeps money circulating in the local economy. When you buy from a locally-owned store, more of your dollars stay in the community compared to shopping at chains.
- Supports small business owners who are your neighbors and friends. These are local families trying to make a living here.
- Builds a sense of community. Local stores help sponsor local sports teams, nonprofits, community events, etc.
- Offers better customer service through wine/alcohol expertise. Local liquor store owners pride themselves on specialized recommendations you can’t find elsewhere.
- Provides variety and unique products. Smaller stores often carry specialty items, small-production wines and liquors, and options you won’t find on most grocery shelves.
- Encourages local job creation. Small businesses employ local residents and keep more jobs in the county.
- Upholds Summit County’s unique character. Part of what makes this town special is the diversity of small businesses.
The bottom line? Prioritizing independent liquor stores benefits the culture, community, and economic health of Summit County in significant ways. Join us at the Summit County Chamber of Commerce in supporting these local businesses and promoting a thriving community. Together, we can help keep Summit County a vibrant and diverse destination for years to come!
