Mendota Liquor Barrel — Local services in Mendota Heights

I was on a hunt for Buffalo Trace. It was Christmas Eve, and as I frantically called roughly 15 stores to find this Bourbon. I called Mendota Liquor, and to my surprise they had one bottle left. I asked how much and was told $34.99, and I asked if they would hold it for me. The man said sure and I told him I was coming from Lakeville (18 miles away). I literally drove like a madman because I wanted to grab it and get home. When I arrived the man told me that I had the purchase an additional $25 worth of products in order to get it for that price. I asked why didn't he tell me that on the phone before I drove the 18 miles and wasted time and gas. He said he forgot... There is NO way he forgot because he has to walk by it every time he goes behind the counter and the sign is bright in color PLUS it was the last one so "He forgot"...I don't think so. That was the most dishonest, deceitful, tacky, rude, unprofessional way of doing business. They're selection of alcohol wasn't that great but I wasn't there for anything else. I asked the person if they would sell it to me at the price he told me and he said the owner would be mad which I wouldn't know, but he could have explained why he did something nice for someone, but he didn't and I left empty handed. These are the kind of businesses that deserve a poor rating, because other people need to know what kind of service to expect. It was a shady way of doing business and I wouldn't ever shop there again, especially with all the choices we have to choose from. Would I recommend this business? ABSOLUTELY...

I use to shop here pretty often, bit since COVID I greatly reduced my in store shopping. I had been here to buy craft beer 20 or 30 times in 2018 - Match 2020. Now under new owners. Craft beer selection has been greatly reduced. One of the two premium craft beers I purchased today was infected. The price of the Hopslam 6 pack was a bargain though. I asked about a specific Wisconsin brewery and was pointed to a different Wisconsin brew. This is no longer a craft beer savey store, bit prices are reasonable. Shop at...

Stopped by here a few years ago, just to pick up some simple things on my way home from work. Their hard alcohol selection is much better than most, and their prices are always competitive. The staff is always attentive to your needs, and actually works towards getting specific products you request into the store! As a result, it has become my regular place to buy alcohol.

Keep up the great work, and I'll continue...