New Shop On Mission to Introduce Rare Craft Wine, Beer and Spirits to St. Cloud [AUDIO]

ST. CLOUD - Boutique wines, craft beer and specialty liquors are completely en vogue right now - and no one knows that more than Nick Barth.

With this in mind, the spirits taster / buyer, partial owner of the Veranda Lounge and DB Searles, and all-around libations aficionado has just opened "The Wine Shop" in downtown St. Cloud.

Barth says he started planning the shop in 2009 with a goal of offering unique, hand-picked bottles that you might not be able to buy anywhere else in the area.

Barth strategized with brothers and business partners Steve and Tom Pickard on a location before deciding on a vacant auto parts storefront next to Bo Diddley's on 6th Avenue South.

Barth says he opened his doors last week, and has seen steady business from everyone from college students to the downtown business community. His goal is to educate those who stop by about spirits they may not know anything about.

Barth says the thing that sets "The Wine Shop" apart from other local stores is the fact that he only has so much space, and needs to be choosy when it comes to inventory. As a result, he'll be rotating his selection from time to time.

One shop detail that won't be altered -  the signature design feature called the "Whiskey Wall,"  which is a lighted display of - what else -  specialty whiskies.

While The Wine Shop is opened, Barth is still planning a grand opening celebration to be held from December 13th - 15th. He says they'll be hosting tastings and specials, among other things.

The Wine Shop is located across from the Grandstay Hotel on 6th Avenue South in St. Cloud.