DMV SPIRITS — Local services in Washington

A hidden gem. That's what folks will typically call something that flies slightly under the radar but has all the value and quality that you could ever hope for. DMV Spirits is exactly that.

Found in a very unassuming building off the beaten path, DMV Spirits operates on the first floor and has two main rooms: the stock room (where you can see what's available for purchase) and the tasting room (where you can try before you buy). Let me just say, I've never had such a nice tasting experience in my whiskey journey before. The owner, Michael, not only has a very solid perspective on whiskey and how it should be approached, but also has zero pretentiousness that many whiskey snobs tend to have.

I visited DMV spirits for the first time today and was pleasantly surprised. Michael has a great selection of whiskey and spirits and offers them at a pretty solid price. He lets you take your time with absolutely no pressure and also offers some helpful advice or asks questions to help understand what you're looking for.

The tasting room is also an incredible experience where, as I said before, you're allowed to try before you buy. Once again, this aspect of DMV spirits clearly shows Michael's expertise and understanding when it comes to the world of whiskey. I mean, how many times have we all bought a bottle before that we were really excited to try, but upon first sip, were immediately let down? Or how many times have we been faced with "analysis paralysis" because we're so overwhelmed with all the choices that our beautiful world of whiskey has to offer? Being able to try before you buy is a huge benefit here and personally allowed me to tailor my choice to the right bottle. For example: I walked in thinking I was going to pick up Green River Wheated, but instead left with Ben Holladay BIB. I was torn between the Holladay and Heaven Hill BIB, but Michael gave me some helpful advice that ultimately allowed me to make my decision. I'm sipping on the Holladay now as I write this review!

Honestly I can't say enough great things about Michael and DMV spirits. Michael is super personable, friendly and knowledgeable. I had no idea so much time had passed until I left. His clientele are friendly as well and I got to have cool conversation with a few other people there too.

I will 100% be back to shop at this location and can not recommend DMV Spirits highly enough for both beginners, enthusiasts and experts of whiskey alike.

Also, pro tip, there's a sign on the front door that asks you to call or text the number listed if you need to get in when the door is locked. It's literally that simple. And Michael will let you in. Anyone could do it, even my dog. Imagine leaving a 1-star review because a building decided to have security. Lol. Don't be like that guy, and just have a little patience and intelligence and ask to be let in. I promise you, you won't...

I rarely write reviews, but this seems worth it and will hopefully be helpful to others. This is not a traditional store front. It is a small business catering primarily to whiskey/bourbon enthusiasts, that is run out of essentially an office space. I was skeptical due to the relatively few number of pictures and reviews; not to mention the almost unbelievably low prices compared to other places in the DMV area. I assure you that this place is worth the hype. Look at their website, place an order, then pick it up with no hassle. The owner was friendly and welcoming and did not have the typical arrogance that can be common amongst high end spirits retailers. I found some bottles I’ve been looking for for a while and they were almost half the price of what I usually see them selling for. This is the type of place I love giving my business to and I can’t recommend it enough if fine whiskey at a great price is what you seek. I almost don’t want to give away the secret but there needs to be more places like this so I encourage others...

This place is an absolute gem hidden in an office building!

They have an excellent collection of bourbon and price is very reasonable. Even better, you can taste any bottle they sell before purchasing! I tried a bunch of allocated and non allocated bottles I was curious about. Michael, the owner, recommended Ben Holladay, and it was a pleasant surprise! I would've overlooked a bottle of such great value if it wasn't for his recommendation.

Overall, I spent a good hour having fun conversations over all kinds of whiskeys, and I left with a couple of bottles I know...