Social Wines - Boston

Matthew Kominsky a month ago

I think it's important for people to know that what was once an independent wine shop is no longer independently owned. The store has clearly changed since being sold. What used to be a thoughtfully curated wine selection staffed by friendly, knowledgeable people now feels like every other corner liquor store in South Boston. The shelves are cramped, the selection is generic, and the staff no longer seem particularly informed about the products they sell. This shop used to have one of the best pre-chilled wine selections in the neighborhood. Where you once might have found a chilled Lambrusco or an interesting small-producer bottle, you'll now find overpriced La Marca Rosé and the same mass-market labels available everywhere else. It's disappointing to see a place with so much character lose what made it special.

Dillon O'Brien a month ago

I've been going to this store for seven years, and the new ownership has completely ruined what made it special. It used to be a well organized, welcoming wine shop staffed by people like Eileen, who knew everything there was to know about wine and always provided thoughtful recommendations. Now Eileen is gone, they've crammed in what feels like twice as many shelves, there are somehow no price tags on the wine (seriously, how is that acceptable?), and the entire store has lost its character. What was once a destination for wine lovers now feels like just another overcrowded convenience store. If I wanted indifferent service and employees who couldn't care less, I could have gone to any number of places that sell cheap light beer. I came to Social Wine because it offered knowledgeable guidance, personal service, and a curated experience. That experience is gone. It's genuinely disappointing to see a great local business transformed into something so generic and uninspired. Unfortunately, I won't be coming back. What was once a standout wine shop is now just another corner store.

Deborah L a month ago

Must be new owners though both of the people working there denied new owners. Under previous owner was a warm community focused place with interesting wines that you could trust were high quality. Now seems like ju st another liquor store.

Frederick 6 months ago

What the shop doesn’t have in selection size it more than makes up for in quality. The owner is super knowledgeable and has curated an inventory that will satisfy even the most sophisticated palates. Prices aren’t the cheapest but they shouldn’t be. The price premium exists for the luxury of being able to leave the shop every time with a guarantee that the wine you bought isn’t a good wine but a great wine! If you want a larger selection go to Total Wine and More, but understand that you’ll have a much greater probability of buying a disappointing wine.

Josephine Glausen 6 months ago

I always find myself here around the holidays grabbing items for gifts. The owners/workers are always friendly, helpful - but not overbearing and let you take your time. Great spot in the neighborhood.