From our founding in the late 1800s, when dust-covered wagons forged their way west in search of untold riches, Durango residents have long held the mentality to look out for their neighbors and help one another get by in uncertain times. Back then, it was a means of survival, literally and figuratively.
Fast forward to the faster-paced reality of 2023, and you will find that we, as a community, still strive to uphold our small-town culture by supporting the businesses and families that call it home. And the truth is, we still need our neighbors as much now as generations past.
One local business synonymous with Durango – and our way of life – is Wagon Wheel Liquors. While the shop has passed through the hands of several local families over its seven decades, it has remained in its current location since the early 1960s, donning its distinguishable oval-shaped sign. Throughout its existence, Wagon Wheel has served loyal customers, spanning generations of Durango residents and visitors.
Wagon Wheel’s current owners, James Dempsey and Christi Williams, are all about maintaining its history while propelling this local institution into the future. They are continuously developing a brand for the business that preserves its small-town charm while responding to new challenges faced by many in the industry. It all starts with how you feel when you enter their door.
“We want our patrons to feel welcomed by our staff. We try to greet everyone who enters our door and answer any questions they have,” says James.
To accommodate this, James needed a diverse staff of knowledgeable people. So, he hired a group of local spirit gurus with 100 years of combined professional experience in the industry. Combining their vast knowledge gives the team at Wagon Wheel Liquors an edge when it comes to helping you find the perfect beverage to pair with your dinner or elevate your special occasion.
American whiskey enthusiasts will enjoy Wagon Wheel’s Bourbon of the Month Club, which provides members with one bottle of their “Bourbon of the Month,” quarterly VIP tastings at The Bookcase and Barber, priority placement on the bourbon waitlist, and 15% off all bourbon purchases.
Refined and worldly patrons can participate in their Wine of the Month Club. This unique offering allows members to explore wines from around the globe. The store's sommelier hand-picks each wine, and members have exclusive access to special purchasing opportunities.
As liquor stores in Colorado grapple with ways to compete with big box retailers, Wagon Wheel has developed several programs to educate and satisfy their clientele. From free delivery to weekly in-store tastings every Wednesday from 4-6, Wagon Wheel strives to make its service accessible and fun for all in Durango.
“We need to set ourselves apart. We do that through our knowledge and experience. You can’t get that everywhere,” adds James.
A cornucopia of spirits under one seemingly small roof, you can find various local products, from microbrews to wine to whiskey, along with more exotic labels and mocktails in the shop. There truly is something for every palate.
Regardless of where your sentiments lie, Wagon Wheel Liquors is just the neighborhood shop to appease your desires.
Boulevardier Recipe (Provided by The Bookcase and Barber)
Tools
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Mixing glass
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Stir spoon
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Hawthorne or Julep strainer
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Small coupe or old-fashioned
Ingredients
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1 ½ oz. Whiskey
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1 oz. Campari
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1 oz. Sweet Vermouth (Carpano Antica)
Garnish
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Skewered, bourbon-soaked cherry
Method
Add whiskey, Campari, sweet vermouth, and ice to your mixing glass. Stir. Strain into a martini glass if served up or over a large ice cube in an old-fashioned glass for on the rocks. Garnish with a skewered bourbon-soaked cherry.
“We need to set ourselves apart. We do that through our knowledge and experience. You can’t get that everywhere.”