Being a wine aficionado residing in Utah, I’m well aware of the distinct hurdles we face due to the stringent alcohol regulations in our state. Although it might appear overwhelming initially, there remain excellent opportunities for acquiring wine in Utah, and I’m eager to assist you in navigating this journey.
Finding Wine in Utah
One of the first things you’ll notice about Utah is that liquor and wine can only be sold in state-run liquor stores. These stores are the sole retailers of wine and other alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content above 3.2%. It can be frustrating to have limited options, but I’ve found that the staff at these stores are often quite knowledgeable and can help guide you to some great choices. You can find the closest liquor store on the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control’s website.
Specialty Wine Shops
While state-run liquor stores are the primary option for wine, there are also a few specialty wine shops in Utah that offer a more curated selection. These shops often have a focus on boutique, high-quality wines and can be a great place to discover unique finds. Keep in mind that while they may offer a different shopping experience, they still operate within Utah’s alcohol laws.
Online Wine Retailers
For additional convenience, I have found online wine retailers to be a valuable resource. While they cannot ship wine directly to your home in Utah, many will ship to one of the state-run liquor stores for pick-up. This option has allowed me to access a wider variety of wines that may not be available in local stores.
My Personal Advice
One of the best pieces of advice I can offer is to plan ahead. Since the selection and availability of wines can vary, especially for more specialized options, it’s a good idea to call your local store in advance to see if they have specific wines in stock. Additionally, if you have a favorite wine that’s not carried, the state-run stores may be able to special order it for you.
Conclusion
While navigating the wine scene in Utah may require some extra effort, there are still plenty of ways to explore and enjoy a great glass of wine. Whether you’re visiting a state-run liquor store, a specialty wine shop, or utilizing online retailers, the options are there—you just need to know where to look. Cheers to discovering new wines in the unique landscape of Utah!
