A diverse selection and ineffably-helpful staff make Ball Square Fine Wines one of the best liquor stores I've ever visited. Carrying dozens of different beers (many in six packs, plus a selection of twelve packs in their walk-in cooler), a wine selection that spans an entire side of the store, and a liquor selection that is regularly updated to reflect customer requests, there are few things that this compact store cannot provide. Should one find that, somehow, there is something missing from the diverse stock, the owners will gladly order the offending item, even if just a bottle or two is needed. Through their online club, Ball Square also makes special items, such as the limited release Samuel Adams Infinium, available to its loyal customers. This dedication to the customer is rarely found at any retailer, let alone a liquor store, exemplifying the uniqueness that makes this business a pleasure to frequent. Rounding out their offerings is The Tasting Station, a dedicated section of the store where regular, free tasting events are held. Though I've yet to attend an event, my experiences so far lead me to believe that I'll benefit greatly from their expertise, perhaps discovering a new favorite wine, beer, or spirit. read more

Awesome selection -- We needed Pimm's No. 1 for a summer housewarming party, and they were the only place that had it! Super friendly staff -- Always helpful when you need it, but pleasantly hands off when you're browsing aimlessly. I've also run in there with strange requests like "Do you have toothpicks?" and they don't seem to judge. And delicious baklava!! read more

I've stopped by twice in the last month and saw staff treat customers rudely on both occasions. I understand the staff is busy and stressed, but that doesn't give them the right to treat others with disrespect. Truly disappointed in this place. read more

I'm still living it up at the brother's and they now know me by name. This is in no way depressing. They are still awesome and now feature frequent beer and wine tastings. Always willing to help you carry your merchandise to your car, these guys still get my vote for friendliest liquor store in the area. One love. read more

What a great little wine shop, that's not all that little! Huge selection of wine, beer, and gourmet food (and even my favorite Annie's Mac and Cheese!) Came here for a tasting night on a Friday - and it was packed! That said, they did a good job of making sure everyone was able to share in the tasting. First, we lined up for the wine, and in line we tried some delicious cheese they were sampling. So good, that we bought a block of each! All the wine pours were good, and at less than $10 a bottle, very affordable. I appreciate that they sample wine that you do not have to think too much about going up and buying, which we did. The beer sampling was Nantucket specific - and all the beers were good, though a bit pricey (craft beer prices, I suppose). Sister is also in the wine club, so she got us 10 or 20% off our already well priced wine. Great spot, and cannot wait to go back for another tasting/shopping night! read more

Love this place! The staff really know their stuff. They are always helpful, and super nice. The beer selection is great! Just picked up a pumpkin mystery variety pack, such a cool idea. You get 6 pumpkin beers and each bag is numbered so you don't end up with the same picks twice. If you live in the area you gotta check this place out. read more

Ball Square Fine Wines - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

Where would I be without Ball Square Fine Wine and Liquors? Well, sober I guess but what fun is that? Anyone who is not from the area may just drive by this tiny little liquor store but I advise you to keep your eyes peeled. Look for the White Hen and STOP; it's right there! The employees are super sweet and very helpful. I am always greeted with a smile; and they even know my name! Sorry Cheers; but you're old news. The beer selection is great with its ever-changing selection of micro-brews and consistent variety of staples (Guinness, Heineken, Bud, Miller, Stella etc...) Need help picking out a wine from their vast selection of varietals and blends from across the world? Ask the owner! He is knowledgeable, friendly, and always willing to impart his knowledge. My roommates and I live up the street and always look forward to their annual wine tasting event which showcases wine and food pairings from the experts. Look out for their flyers advertising the next one; and show up early before it fills to capacity! I will miss you Ball Square Fine Wines and Liquors. When I move to Allston I know that I will not find service like this... read more

Way overdue review. I live right by BSFW and have been a customer for a few years now. I love BSFW for many reasons: - the cheese: as a French expat, I can tell you they know their cheeses and have really good quality cheeses. I order my platter for Christmas and happy with it. - the wine selection is awesome. When you enter they have specials in bins on your right. They otherwise have a very decent selection from all over the world. And they know their wine! I have never been disappointed by a wine they recommended to me - the beer: I am not a connoisseur but my husband is. They can order kegs and have (apparently) a really cool selection. Staff is pleasant and very knowledgable. On Fridays they have tastings for wine and beer, which can be overrun but usually a great way to start the weekend and worth the wait! I recommend the place! read more

Go buy your booze from Chris and his friendly staff at Ball Square Fine Wine and Liquors and package stores everywhere might be ruined for you. I lived eight or nine houses away from Ball Square Wine for the better part of three years and came to love this little neighborhood store. Yeah, the aisles were cramped (before the expansion into the old truffle store, anyway) but the selection of wine and microbrews was outstanding. The prices are good because, I think, he has to appeal to the young professionals and college students that live in the area. Even the cigar selection is decent. And, of course, you'll find any liquor you want. One of my favorite parts of living in the neighborhood was taking advantage of the Friday night wine tastings. Like clockwork, Chris has someone in the store on Friday afternoons (starting at 5pm, I think) pouring wine or beer. It's a great way to discover new vintages or producers. As an added bonus, sometimes Chris has homemade Greek pastries made by his mom that he loves to hand out. The expansion essentially doubled the size of the store. The tasting bar is a great addition and the added space really is a boon to the store. Just another one more quick anecdote. One day my roommate and I went in for our afternoon beer. He was looking for a new job and planning to move to San Francisco. We were talking about it in the store and, after chatting with Chris while we checked out, picked the conversation back up as we walked out the door. Chris must've overheard us because he came running out the door after us and told my roommate that if he was looking for work he'd be happy to have him at the store. read more

Best selection of gluten-free beers around. Most places have one, if not two. They had seven. I understand they're even going to do a gluten-free beer tasking in the near future. I'm so up for that. And the hard cider selection is good, and this is not to even mention the great wine selection. The staff is helpful and friendly. Just wish it were closer to my place, but it's worth the trip! read more

I've been to a few beer stores around the Somerville area, but BSFW has become my primary supplier. Prices are the same if not less than other small beer wine stores in the area. Staff is friendly and very willing to help you out if you have a question. They take a good amount of pride in what they do because the place is very clean and organized. It's amazing how much they can fit into a small space. They also have a big wine tasting event every October (as I believe RAM mentions). This is a really great event and there is a ton of wine to sample. read more

There is no better liquor store. The huge, curated selection of local and craft beer, world wines, and liquor simply is supported by a truly caring, involved staff. I purchased kegs from Ball Square Fine Wines for my home kegerator for the better part of two years. Jonathan and Nate are absolute beer experts not only in finding beers that will suit my tastes, but also in knowing exactly what is available at any time from local distributors and seasonal items. Give them a call and they will talk you to the perfect keg. Their "mystery 6-packs" of paired up beers is a great way to get a sampling of new things, and their "wine club" gives discounts and lets you track all of your purchases. If only there was a Ball Square Fine Wines in every town! read more

Dan, the tatted wine manager, helped me and my now husband identify some cheap, but delicious, wines for our diy wedding reception. Plus, he gave us a nice bulk discount because we bought by the case. Our guests were happy, even the wine snobs. But, even if you aren't buying in bulk, these folks are always happy to help you find a libation that suits your palate and budget. Plus, the wines of the month are always a deal. So, if you're thrifty like me... then this is the spot. The wine club is also cool - makes you feel special, even if you only started liking wine after that horrible Paul Giamatti movie. My S.O., well, he digs the rye collection. read more

I stopped in recently to buy a bottle of wine, knowing that they'd expanded in the past year, and was really impressed. The place used to be a "college proximate beer and cheap wine store" but has really turned itself around. I asked for some advice and the woman behind the counter had a lot of expertise, knew what she was talking about, and wasn't just trying to upsell me. I used to go to one of the big-box chain liquor stores, but this place has the neighborhood feel and a better selection when it comes to wines. They also have great microbrewed beers, spirits, and glassware. I look forward to hitting their Friday wine tastings. A great neighborhood find! read more

Pretty solid beer and wine store. I am usually asked if I need help looking for anything by friendly staff. Pretty great selection for a location their size. I can't say the same for all products, since I've not bought wine at BSFW, but the many of the beers are priced a bit higher here than those elsewhere. In some cases, a full dollar or two which has turned me off in the past. This mostly applies to specialty bottles and 22oz. Six packs are pretty in line and have a great cold selection. They do a lot of tastings and some fun events which is also a plus. Overall a good store, but not one I go way out of my way for. read more

Great liquor store that has tastings most weeks. As an added bonus, they renovated adding in more space for a selection of gourmet food and much larger selection of beer. Prices tend to be about what you would expect but the range of good here (along with some hard to find items like white port) make this the stand by liquor store for me. Not to mention, they have a great deal on some of the best baguettes you can find in the area. Of course, by the time i walk out I have some beer, some cheese and maybe a bottle of wine, so much for the savings! read more

Nice neighborhood liquor store that has a wide variety of wines, beers, and other. I like it cause I can stop in and buy a 6 pack of cider on my way home. Doesn't have a lot of space, but they have used it the best the can and have a very friendly staff. Wine tastings are regular events here (although when we bought one of the bottles that we tasted, the cork was as dry as a beach and broke off into the bottle. Yuck) read more

Let me tell you guys a secret: I pretend to know what I'm talking about when I discuss wine, but I have no clue. Thank God Ball Square Wine and Liquors is literally at the end of my street. Hands down the best customer service I've encountered at a liquor store EVER. THe employees basically fall over themselves to help you find the perfect cabernet to go with your marinara recipe or explain the best reisling to pair with a light dessert. Prices here aren't entirely competitive, but it doesn't matter. The selection, friendly owners, and location more than make up for it. Best yet, they have an electronic wine club program that remembers the bottle brand and types so you can call them up online whenever you want. I'm glad Ball Square Liquors has services like this that make me even lazier than the alcholic beverages within. read more

I only have enough info about this place for four stars, but when I return I will surely update! I went in before a Christmas party looking to find a perfect Riesling for the riesling-loving hostess. The employee that helped me was honest, and recommended his favorite, which was a reasonable priced $13 riesling. He also was extremely upbeat, and seemed personally injured by the fact that I had JUST MISSED THE BUBBLY TASTING! Yet, he said it in an oh so hip manner. He also told me not to fret, I could come any friday for wine tastings! Now for the wine, I was so convinced by his selling power that I decided to be greedy and buy one bottle of it for me and one for the host. A week or so later I got around to my bottle, and BOY was it good. No, it was fantastic. Actually, I now want to buy more of it.. Did I mention I drank all of it in one sitting? Oops. I guess that's what is called for during a good ole nor' easter. read more

Very fun, helpful staff. Great selection of wine, beer, and spirits. They've got some cheese, meats, and snacks too. Everything you might need for a picnic in the park. The wine might be priced a teeny bit high but if you're a club member you get 10% off the monthly wines. It helps! But like I said, the staff is super knowledgeable and always leads me in the right direction. read more

I've only been here a couple of times and sadly am here just for the summer, but I would highly recommend this liquor store. I was drawn in by the display of Seattle Cider Co hard ciders, which are my favorite and not so easy to get in this area. Not only did they sell these ciders, but they let me build a custom 6-pack of seasonal flavors so I could sample them without buying whole packs! read more

No liquor store in the area has a more appreciative staff. Genuine "thank you"s conclude every visit to this fine establishment... The prices may be slightly higher than similar surrounding stores, but it's the staff that'll keep you coming back. They also have a more extensive selection of wine (both cheap and fine) not to mention, more varieties of Carlo Rossi jugs than the competition... Give this place a try... and enjoy the hospitality. read more

I've been there twice. The first time my boyfriend and I went for the free wine tasting. They were serving Greek wines and the gentleman serving them explained the history and flavors in a very pleasant manner. It was a fun experience and if you're around Davis Square, it might be worth it. The second time, my roommate and I got some vodka and were disappointed at the selection. Overall, I guess this is a good place for wines, but not much of a selection in terms of beer, vodka or rum. read more

Top notch beer and wine selection, good variety of gourmet cheeses/cured meats/snacks, and weekly free beer or wine tastings, what's not to like? I'm almost tempted to not write them a glowing review for fear that these events will be overrun with other Yelpers....but review them I must. The staff is super friendly and helpful without being pretentious or obnoxious and the place is smack dab between Sound Bites and Lyndell's which makes it easy to stop by after brunch and before bringing some pastries back home. Win. read more

What a great little local store! They expanded semi-recently. Before the expansion I had come here maybe 2 times. It was fine, but a bit small. Then a friend told me I was missing out - the expansion added gourmet food, lots of great cheeses, and tastings on Friday nights. Clearly, I was missing out! We went for a Friday night wine tasting - so great. I loved all the wines we tasted and bought 3 of the bottles. Great selection of beer, wine, and liquor. The guy behind the cheese counter helped us find (and sample) several cheeses that met the criteria we were looking for (so many awesome ones it's hard to choose). All around great experience. I'm happy they are right around the corner from us. The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 - slightly higher prices, but the knowledge about the products they carry and the fact that I'm supporting a local business keep me coming back. read more

This liquor store was a diamond in the rough. The beer selection (especially of high end microbrews, especially in 750 ml bottles) was outstanding, and the staff was very helpful and good at offering advice. The wine selection also seemed good, and the staff was helpful there as well. read more

I am so glad this place exists. I don't know a lot about wine, liquor, or beer, but thanks to the knowledgable and helpful staff at Ball Square Fine Wines, I'm learning. The prices here aren't low, but the store offers free tastings and specials weekly, so customers are afforded regular opportunities to learn what we like and don't. This way we can figure out for ourselves the best value for our twenty dollars, but the staff is always eager to answer any questions anyone might have. Tip: The free tastings are usually Friday evenings, but join their email mailing list for details on what they'll be sampling each week. read more

Best liquor store around. Good selection of everything. They are super friendly. Appreciate that the owner is there most days. He cares about the experience of his patrons and the store. The other staff is very helpful, and are willing to admit they don't know everything and find another staff member who can help. It is slightly more expensive then some other options, but I think the service is worth it. read more

Small store but great selection! Their bargain bins are reasonably priced and wonderful...I don't think I've ever bought a sub par bottle here. The staff is friendly and they give excellent recommendations. Best wine/beer store in the area in my opinion. read more

Wow, finally a wine/liquor store that doesn't seem sketchy and reek of alcohol. Ball Square Fine Wines and Liquors is conveniently located in the heart of Ball Square. The staff is friendly and helpful. I learned about it from a friend who's father is friends with the owner. I am very happy she directed me here after seeing the other options of liquor stores in the area (crowded, rundown, and sketchy). The owner takes pride in his store. He excitedly encouraged me to sign up for his Wine Club (a free club that offers discounts on wines of the month, special tastings, etc) I found the prices to be reasonable for the Boston area. The store space is on the small side, but they manage to fit a reasonable selection into it. I definitely recommend Ball Square Fine Wines and Liquors to anyone in the Somerville/Medford area. read more

I know enough about wine to be (really) dangerous. Actually, I just know how to drink it in over-sized glasses. But when I bring a bottle of wine to a friend's house or have wine on hand at my house, I like to think it's decent. While small, the store is clean and not creepy like a lot of other liquor stores in the area. It feels boutique-y in a good way -- it is not snobby or unwelcoming. They have a ton of wine and beer from which to choose at a variety of prices. Hint: If you and your friends are prone to plowing through several bottles at a time, check out their "Under $10" Bins at the front of the store. Great feature. It's always my first stop. However, if you are looking for something more spendy, they have that covered as well. They've often got a cool tasting going on. I discovered my favorite "skinny" margarita here: tequila + agave nectar + fresh lime juice shaken with ice. YUM. And so easy, even I can do it. But the best part? I really like to browse a store myself, without having to talk to the staff. The staff here is SUPER helpful and pleasant, but what I like best are the hand-written descriptions of some of their featured wines. They're detailed and evocative and they offer helpful pairing suggestions. To be honest, I sometimes don't pick up the "hints of plum" or "whiff smokiness" or "oakiness" or whatever, but if I read a description there and it sounds good to me, I've never been disappointed. Bottom line: This store makes me look like I have good taste in wine. Really, I just know where to shop. read more

5 stars for this establishment because they do wines, liquor, beer, cider and other alcohol the correct way. The drink variety is very extensive and sold at very affordable prices. I'm a cider lover and was astounded to see the variety of ciders being sold here--especially brands that I have found outside of the United States but not at other liquor stores within the States. The make-your-own six pack is a treat and is sold at a fair price for both the merchant and customer. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. TIP: Sign up for the weekly deals and for the summer wine tastings. read more

After you go to The Boston Shaker to get all of your cocktail-making-supplies, come here to get all of your cocktail-making-ingredients. Here are three reasons why nothing out there can touch what Ball Square has: 1. BSFW&L has the best selection of liquors in the area. HANDS DOWN. There is absolutely no comparison. They have a large selection of all qualities of all the booze you will ever need to make any kind of cocktail. Literally, a one-stop-shop. 2. They have the best beer selection in town. HANDS DOWN. No comparison. They are always getting new six-packs in, always exploring new types of beer and new breweries, and everything is super fresh. If you are one of those people who wants to try a new sixer every time you go to the store and you've started to exhaust your options...seriously...go here. Your head will explode and you will likely spend a ton of money. Also well worth noting, they do make-your-own six packs and they don't upcharge (you pay for exactly what you get). 3. The guys who work there know their beers, wines, and liquors. These guys drink, they aren't just in to the biz because it is lucrative, which I'm sure it is. I have gotten tons of suggestions for drinks, great, thorough descriptions of flavors, tones and textures of spirits, and awesome suggestions for beer. So pumped I live close to here. Easy parking as well. read more

Really bad service. If you look anywhere under 21, they're be rude to you, assuming you're underage. I asked them to suggest a white wine. No response. I'm 26 years old. Great tactic if you want customers to never come back. But hey they have a good selection. read more

Better than any other shop of it's genre, Ball Square has truly fine wines for very short coin. Granted part of that equation comes from finding a wine buyer that suits your palette-well color me lucky. They've recently expanded with a great tasting station and more product. The staff is knowledgeable, and exudes a friendly work ethic that is apparent from the owner down. Additionally, if you run across a wine you love, they've been Johnny on the Spot at finding them and getting them in house. I can think of three things they carry now, that were based on phone calls I made...that's democracy. It's also a fun place to learn a bit about wine-they have a web site that keeps a log of all of your purchases and makes keeping tasting notes a breeze. They have complimentary tastings every Friday. I've been fortunate to taste a number of 100 pt wines...from DRC to Latour, Haut Brion to Mouton, but this is the place I drive, (out of my way, I might add) for all of my boozing needs. Thanks to Chris and the Gang. read more

This wine shop makes you feel like youre doing some really grand adult style wine shopping even if youre only buying a 9 dollar bottle. The space is lovely. And definitely "ups" the general ambiance of ball square. Oh and they have tastings on Fridays. And a bin-ends section near the front with great markdowns. And a quality cheese selection. And theyre super un-pretentious. I get the same great service everytime I come in. I absolutely adore this place! read more

Great local shop in Ball Square. Fun to browse. Expect good prices and lots of help and attentive service. It might look small from the outside, but they pack a lot.. They have a solid chocolate selection. I found Dolfin's sencha milk chocolate bar in San Francisco a year ago and was delighted to find a whole selection of Dolfin bars here. They have a nice collection of cheeses and jams, mustards, and other stuff in jars. Whatever nibbles you need for your dinner party, you will find them here. read more

Ball Square Fine Wines has a great selection and an astute staff. They also have a very nice selection of olive oils, cheeses, and some antipasti (e.g., olives, pepperoncini, roasted 'peperoni', etc). I really liked that they had a laptop on hand that was pointing to their website -- available for customers to either search for a specific wine or type of wine/varietal), or to join their wine club (specials!). Very pleasant experience overall, from the browsing to the buying. read more

Ball Square Fine Wines - shelves of wine bottles - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

Nice place with friendly staff...Good selection of cheeses, liquors, beers, and chocolate bars... Some more breads and dessert choices would be nice...And it would be nice if they would dust the boxes of chocolates available by the door... But all in all, a really nice little business. read more

Best liquor store in the area. Great selection that manages both variety and depth. Staff is incredible as well - they're helpful and informative without being pushy. I always feel like I've learned something without being upsold. It really helps that the owner is so involved and friendly. Hint: ask the staff to mix your own six packs. They let you sort through the cooler and get a variety of beers, then charge you according to the unit price for each. Great idea. read more