Does Total Wine & More Sell Beer? An In-Depth Look
Yes, Total Wine & More emphatically does sell beer. In fact, beer constitutes a significant portion of their inventory, often boasting a wide selection rivaling dedicated beer stores.
Total Wine & More: A Retail Beverage Giant
Total Wine & More has established itself as a dominant force in the retail beverage landscape, offering a vast array of wines, spirits, and, importantly, beer. Founded in 1991, the company has grown to operate hundreds of stores across the United States. Their business model centers on offering competitive pricing and an unparalleled selection, aiming to be a one-stop shop for all beverage needs. This includes catering to diverse tastes in beer, from mass-market domestics to rare craft brews and imports.
The Beer Selection at Total Wine
The range of beers available at Total Wine is arguably one of their strongest selling points. They strive to cater to every level of beer enthusiast, from casual drinkers seeking familiar brands to seasoned connoisseurs looking for the latest limited releases. Here’s a snapshot of what you might typically find:
- Domestic Lagers and Ales: Budweiser, Coors Light, Miller Lite, and other national brands are readily available.
- Craft Beers: A substantial selection of craft beers from local, regional, and national breweries. Expect to find IPAs, stouts, sours, and a constantly rotating selection of seasonal brews.
- Imported Beers: A wide variety of beers from around the world, including European classics, Mexican lagers, and Asian brews.
- Non-Alcoholic Beers: A growing selection of non-alcoholic beers for those seeking alcohol-free options.
- Ciders and Hard Seltzers: While technically not beer, these are often stocked in the same section.
Factors Influencing Beer Availability
While Total Wine generally boasts a comprehensive beer selection, availability can vary depending on several factors:
- Location: State and local regulations significantly impact what can be sold. Some areas might have restrictions on high-alcohol beers or dictate specific licensing requirements.
- Store Size: Larger stores typically offer a wider variety of beers than smaller locations.
- Seasonality: Seasonal beers, such as pumpkin ales in the fall or summer wheat beers, will naturally come and go with the changing seasons.
- Brewery Relationships: Total Wine cultivates relationships with various breweries, which can influence the beers they stock and the exclusive releases they offer.
- Consumer Demand: Inventory decisions are largely driven by consumer demand, so popular beers will always be well-stocked.
Navigating the Beer Aisle at Total Wine
Total Wine stores are typically organized to make browsing the beer selection as straightforward as possible. Common organizational methods include:
- By Style: Beers are often grouped by style, such as IPAs, lagers, stouts, or sours.
- By Region: Some stores organize their beer selection by region, grouping beers from local breweries or international breweries together.
- By Brand: Familiar brands are usually grouped together, making it easy to find your favorites.
- Coolers vs. Shelves: Many stores have refrigerated coolers for immediate consumption and shelves for larger packs or bottles.
Online Ordering and Delivery
Total Wine offers online ordering and delivery services in many locations. This provides a convenient way to browse their beer selection and have your purchases delivered directly to your door. However, availability and delivery options can vary depending on local regulations and store policies. Check the Total Wine website or app for specific details in your area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does Total Wine offer a rewards program for beer purchases?
Yes, Total Wine & More offers a rewards program called “More!”. Members earn points on all purchases, including beer, and can redeem those points for discounts and other perks. Benefits vary depending on your spending level.
Can I sample beer at Total Wine before buying it?
This depends on the specific store and local regulations. Some Total Wine locations may offer beer tastings, especially during special events or brewery promotions. It’s always best to check with your local store.
Does Total Wine sell individual cans or bottles of beer?
Yes, Total Wine generally sells individual cans and bottles of many beers, allowing you to create your own mixed six-pack or try new beers without committing to a full pack. Selection varies by store.
What if I can’t find a specific beer at my local Total Wine?
You can inquire with a store employee about availability or potential special orders. They can often check inventory at other nearby locations or place an order for you.
Are the prices for beer at Total Wine competitive?
Total Wine is known for its competitive pricing on all beverages, including beer. They often offer bulk discounts and other promotions to further lower prices.
Does Total Wine sell kegs of beer?
Yes, many Total Wine locations sell kegs of beer. Availability depends on the store and local regulations.
What types of non-alcoholic beers does Total Wine carry?
Total Wine carries a variety of non-alcoholic beers, including lagers, ales, stouts, and IPAs from brands like Athletic Brewing Company, Heineken 0.0, and others.
Does Total Wine have a “build your own six-pack” option?
While the terminology may vary, many Total Wine locations allow you to purchase individual beers to create your own mixed six-pack. This is a great way to try new styles and breweries.
Does Total Wine offer gift cards that can be used for beer purchases?
Yes, Total Wine gift cards can be used to purchase any item in the store, including beer.
Does Total Wine have a beer club or subscription service?
Total Wine does not currently offer a dedicated beer club or subscription service. However, their rewards program provides discounts and perks for all purchases, including beer.
Does Total Wine sell refrigerated beer?
Yes, Total Wine typically has a selection of refrigerated beers for immediate consumption.
Does Total Wine guarantee the freshness of their beer?
Total Wine strives to ensure the freshness of its beer by carefully managing inventory and rotating stock. Check the “born on” or “best by” dates on the packaging before purchasing.