Liquor Stores in Newburyport, MA

“My love letter to Grand Trunk Wine & Cheese.

As someone who comes from a fine dining and luxury hospitality background, I’ve walked into a lot of wine shops. Some dazzle with labels, others with architecture, but very few have what Grand Trunk Wine & Cheese in Newbury, Massachusetts has: Soul.

From the moment I stepped through the door, I felt it: that rare blend of warmth, care, and true expertise that can’t be faked. Angela and Jeremy are A1. Their kindness and knowledge come across not with fanfare, but with grace. Within 15 minutes (that’s all the time I had) I knew I’d found something special.

The shop itself is small, but beautifully curated. Every bottle and wedge of cheese feels intentionally chosen, not just for flavor or region, but for story. It’s clear Angela and Jeremy aren’t just stocking shelves — they’ve been to these places. They understand that a wine isn’t just a grape in a bottle, it’s a conversation with the soil, the climate, the winemaker’s hands. They respect that conversation deeply, and in doing so, invite you into it.

Their range of offerings is incredibly approachable, whether you’re stopping in for a casual weeknight wine or something more elevated, the focus remains consistent: quality, authenticity, and heart. And here’s what really stood out: they’re not salespeople. There’s no pressure. No pitch. No agenda. Just a genuine desire to match you with something you’ll love. That’s rare.

To those who have left one-star reviews…I’ll say this kindly but firmly: those words feel far from the truth I experienced. It’s a shame when small, family-run businesses, the very ones that shape the culture and charm of a town, are targeted by careless or baseless criticism. We should all be more mindful of the pen we carry and how we use it. Words have weight.

Angela and Jeremy strike me as the kind of people who would bend over backwards to make things right if something ever went wrong. But honestly? This place doesn’t need fixing. It needs celebrating.

So here’s my honest recommendation:
Stop reading this… and just Go. Walk in with curiosity. Tell them what you love, or simply why you’re there. If you’re unsure, they’ll guide you. If you’re confident, they’ll trust you.

Either way, you’ll walk out with something beautiful and likely want to stay longer next time.

This is what a small-town wine and cheese shop should feel like. No notes. Just gratitude.

You’ve earned a loyal customer.”

“Leary's the best liquor store in all of Massachusetts. Their variety is unparalleled & everyone there is so sweet and helpful. Andrew knows everything about every drop of alcohol that comes through that place, he's the best, with Stacey as a very close second. They also have a great deli and cheese selection. Come on down as they often have beer, wine and liquor tastings throughout the week.”

“Ashley was so nice and friendly! Her customer service was outstanding, she checked on us and was ready to help at a moments notice! The store had a great selection as well!”

“One of the best stores around. The prices and staff are incredible. They have everything that you are looking for. Besides the prices and staff, the place is very organized and clean.”

“Abbie, the owner, puts her heart into this business and it shows. My colleagues and I wanted to send a care package to a team member from a local place. Many places in the area will not deliver, let alone same day. I called Joppa Fine Food at 11:30am and spoke directly with Abbie. She was lovely to speak with, said they would happily put something together and the gift was delivered within 2 hours. Amazing job Joppa Fine Foods team! Thank you for your amazing hospitality.”

“Sam turned this place around! Great to have a quality & convenient option where Newburyporters can duck in and out off Low St to quickly to get what they need. Beer and wine that you want and an excellent Bourbon selection. My new 'go-to'.”