Photo courtesy: Chalk & Cheese
There are hundreds of bottleshops sprinkled across Brisbane. Wherever you go, it's pretty easy to buy a bottle of wine to accompany dinner or a carton of beer for a barbecue.
But did you know the vast majority of liquor stores are owned by two major food retailers? So, if you want service and selection that's a little more personalised, head to one of Brisbane's local and independent liquor stores.
Chalk and Cheese, a premium wine and food store combined, has three locations in Brisbane and they offer you a locally owned alternative.
Cameron Bacon, who created the concept, says "we think wine is special, and doesn't deserve to be treated like just another commodity, so we want to offer as much choice as we possibly can.
"We're not about bulk wine sales. We would prefer to sell our customers a different bottle every night and hear about what you thought of it the next day.
Rocquefort cheeses, Italian truffles and French mustard too."We also love food, and good wine goes hand in hand with good food so in our stores you will find a range of complimentary foods. Our customers like the local gourmet cheeses from Kingaroy and Maleny, Maggie Beer dips and patès, olives, preserves, crackers, high quality pasta and chocolates.
"We import rare Pont l'eveque and Rocquefort cheeses, Italian truffles and French mustard too.
"Our range is dictated by you, the customer. So if you want it and we don't have it we will do everything we can to get if for you. Just ask us."
Having expert staff can make a difference in a bottleshop laden with hundreds of names, brands and varieties. Cameron says the Chalk and Cheese staff are passionate about wine, food and customer service and actually enjoy what they do.
"Most of them have been with us from the very beginning and helped us make Chalk and Cheese a success.
"So if you haven't visited the West End, Teneriffe or Auchenflower Chalk and Cheese stores, drop in and let us show you around. We'd love to help you find your favourite drink and delicious accompaniment."
