Best Wine & Liquor Store '96

Best Wine & Liquor Store

The Rumrunner Wine and Cheese Co.
3200 E. Speedway Blvd.

READERS' AND STAFF PICK: Hands down, the classiest, widest-ranging joint in the city, The Rumrunner has it all--from high, high, high end (You think we exaggerate? How's about a nice $1,200 cognac?) to fairly low-priced, with an extraordinary selection of everything in-between. Wines range from $10 or less all the way to $900 (a fine, cheeky little bottle of '89 Domaine Romanee-Conti, if you were wondering). And don't despair if you find yourself unprepared in the world of casks and barrels. The Rumrunner staff specializes in culinary clairvoyance: They always seem to divine just what you're looking for, right in your price range.

In addition to all the booze and hooch, they also have a fine selection of gourmet cheeses, breads, olive oils and chocolates, among other food items. Stop in, price some fine single malts and check out the tequila rack, where 38 different brands await the perusal of your palate. At the register, they'll even give you a mango-flavored sweet for the trip home.

READERS' POLL RUNNER-UP: Plaza Liquors & Fine Wines, 2642 N. Campbell Ave.

1998 Winner: Rumrunner Wine & Cheese Co.
1997 Winner: Rumrunner Wine & Cheese Co.
1995 Winner: Rumrunner Wine & Cheese Co.