| Author |
Message |
Sobek (Sobek)
Username: Sobek
Post Number: 89
Registered: 11-2005
| | Posted on Thursday, May 15, 2008 - 12:36 pm: | |
Eric is back in business. I was in there last weekend, and things are back to normal. |
Craig (Bearriott)
Username: Bearriott
Post Number: 121
Registered: 1-2006
| | Posted on Thursday, May 15, 2008 - 12:32 pm: | |
Glad they had insurance! |
John Shea III (Jshea)
Username: Jshea
Post Number: 903
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Thursday, May 15, 2008 - 11:54 am: | |
Bad boiler a big-money bummer for Salem wine merchant.
http://www.salemnews.com/punews/local_story_136004222.html
I hope everything works out. |
William Conant (Conant)
Username: Conant
Post Number: 337
Registered: 2-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 8:16 pm: | |
Until they improve upon the vintages and the Chateaus, I'll continue with Berry Bros & Rudd, an old established firm. |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 1933
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 2:06 pm: | |
Damn it McKraut, I can't stay annoyed with you! |
McKraut (Mckraut)
Username: Mckraut
Post Number: 250
Registered: 7-2006
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 1:41 pm: | |
"As I say, I don't believe they'd want this guy's patronage."
Not on Monday's at least. |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 1929
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 11:39 am: | |
Trust me, Geoff. He doesn't want McKraut's business... |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 1926
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 12:36 pm: | |
Some prior gems from McKraut regarding the new wine shop:
Post 239: "I have a feeling this new place is just going to be overpriced and limited in selection."
Post 242: "This whole 'support the little guy thing' never flew for me. If I can get a better deal on a particular item somewhere I will just go there...Let's say they sell beer. If I know I can get a bottle of Belhaven Wee Heavy for $3.50 at Kappy's and this place sells it for $5, I'm going to Kappy's...in the snow...proudly. I will check this shop out though."
As I say, I don't believe they'd want this guy's patronage. |
Geoff Millar (Gmillar)
Username: Gmillar
Post Number: 27
Registered: 2-2008
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 11:13 am: | |
Sorry, I have a hard time complaining about a sole proprietor taking one day a week off. His hours are clearly posted on his website. 30 seconds would have saved you the trip. Mondays the store is closed. Every other day he's open later than almost every other downtown business. |
howard (Howard)
Username: Howard
Post Number: 203
Registered: 5-2006
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 11:09 am: | |
i was bummed at first too, but that inconvenience is worth the selection. Go back on one of the other 6 days he's open. |
Jim Williamson (Jim_williamson)
Username: Jim_williamson
Post Number: 65
Registered: 8-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 11:21 am: | |
Mckraut:
Give em a break - I came by at lunch to restock my cellar after the long Easter Weekend and cleaned them out.
Left some Colt 45 for Blatto. |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 1922
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 26, 2008 - 10:20 am: | |
He may have only posted 247 times, but one thing you can say about McKraut is that he always has something interesting to say! |
McKraut (Mckraut)
Username: Mckraut
Post Number: 247
Registered: 7-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 25, 2008 - 3:32 pm: | |
So I stopped by this place yesterday after work. THEY WERE CLOSED!! On a MONDAY!!! I gave them a chance and they blew it. Looks like I'm stickin with Kappy's. |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 1555
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, March 08, 2008 - 9:35 am: | |
There's a whole pantryfull of the stuff over at the Senior Center. I've seen it! |
Humanatee (Enrico_palazzo)
Username: Enrico_palazzo
Post Number: 1134
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Friday, March 07, 2008 - 8:47 am: | |
i think they should stock more robitussin so the north shore's driver's ed teachers can have a good place to make their pit stops. |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 1537
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Thursday, March 06, 2008 - 1:10 pm: | |
Now we're sitting in the charming breakfast nook, nibbling on our homemade raspberry muffins.
My, but this jasmine this tea is weak! |
Lloyd (Lloyd)
Username: Lloyd
Post Number: 448
Registered: 2-2003
| | Posted on Thursday, March 06, 2008 - 6:43 pm: | |
Has anyone considered the possibility of using bubble gum, or perhaps silly putty?
Better yet, what about that Billy Mays (wonder if he's related to willie) stuff that is like putty but when you roll it with nitro or whatever the heck he mixes it with, it becomes harder than the glue under Furey's rug. ;] |
Sobek (Sobek)
Username: Sobek
Post Number: 80
Registered: 11-2005
| | Posted on Thursday, March 06, 2008 - 12:52 pm: | |
Caps are the way to go for THE best preservation. I've seen faux corks, and I am not sure what that's all about, but real corks have known issues...issues that only a winery would probably care about.
William, I have not heard that one. Could be true.
DB, thanks for the info. |
Droppin Biscuits (Droppin_biscuits)
Username: Droppin_biscuits
Post Number: 101
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Thursday, March 06, 2008 - 12:52 am: | |
Sobek,
There is a homebrew store in Beverly, across from Browns Bicycles. |
John Shea III (Jshea)
Username: Jshea
Post Number: 664
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 05, 2008 - 11:25 pm: | |
Enrico:
Thunderbird uses twist offs, what is the problem? |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 1529
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 05, 2008 - 8:15 pm: | |
Shhh!
They're all in bed together, asleep, dreaming of corkscrews! |
Humanatee (Enrico_palazzo)
Username: Enrico_palazzo
Post Number: 1125
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 05, 2008 - 10:28 am: | |
my understanding for the switch to twist offs and caps is that the cork is the reason why most bad bottles of wine went bad. |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 1517
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 05, 2008 - 10:43 am: | |
I feel like I'm overhearing a conversation at a B and B in Napa. |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 1515
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 05, 2008 - 10:43 am: | |
A gay B and B in Napa. |
William Legault (Baldbil)
Username: Baldbil
Post Number: 224
Registered: 9-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 05, 2008 - 7:19 am: | |
My understanding is that the movement to twistoff caps is being driven by a shortage of the wood(fiber?) used for corks which has driven the price way up. Similar to what is happening with chopsticks in the Asian restaurants. |
Carlos Los Gato (Carlos_los_gato)
Username: Carlos_los_gato
Post Number: 58
Registered: 9-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, March 05, 2008 - 12:47 am: | |
Sorry Howard, but it is only matter of time. All of Aussie and New Zealand has made the switch. And study after study has shown that the wine is BETTER with a twist seal, as the wine is more stable over time due, as cork allows oxygen to enter the bottle and spoil the wine.
I love the romance of the cork as much as anyone, but when it gets down to quality, the cork is a loser. |
howard (Howard)
Username: Howard
Post Number: 192
Registered: 5-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 04, 2008 - 3:16 pm: | |
I do not support that movement at all.
I intentionally DO NOT buy wine that has a twist cap and I actually ask when purchasing a new wine if it has a cap or cork. If a cap, back to the shelf she goes. I do it only because I fear that rising sales of capped wines will force the corks to caps... booooo. I'm a purist (when it comes to booze and love) and I feel that both need not a modicum of modification.
A bottle of wine without a cork is like cupid without his/her arrows. I won't believe for one second that a twist cap provides that much of a higher caliber of freshness.
Give me a break - Monks, Moses, Jeebus, Egyptians and greezy eyetalians like myself drank corked wine from ceramic jugs for years and they all made out fine.
Say no to caps.
Love Love,
Howie XVIII |
nsphotogal (Nsphotogal)
Username: Nsphotogal
Post Number: 12
Registered: 10-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 04, 2008 - 3:45 pm: | |
The place is in Woburn in sort of an office park area right off 128. Here is their website..the address is at the bottom.
http://www.beer-wine.com/beer-making-supplies.html |
Sobek (Sobek)
Username: Sobek
Post Number: 79
Registered: 11-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 04, 2008 - 1:03 pm: | |
Oh yeah, brewing your own beer is a good idea. Does anyone know where to buy supplies? I think there might be place in Reading, but I am not sure.
The issue about the cork drying out is soon to be moot. Many wineries are moving to using twist-offs. There are good arguments for the switch such as no more worries about rot, dry-out, leaks, etc. Cork is really only still used for nostalgic reasons, and I have seen bottles now using caps. |
Salem Lifer (Salem_lifer)
Username: Salem_lifer
Post Number: 15
Registered: 2-2008
| | Posted on Monday, March 03, 2008 - 3:19 pm: | |
I like both stores and I patronize both.
Many places - realizing that wine does not stay on shelves for too long - store wine upright.
Do you have any idea how long it would take for a cork, (under lead or plastic wrap no less)
in a wine bottle to dry out? Ages!!
If the wine was at a price that meant that it would be months and months on a shelf that would be something different. This is not the case with Pamplemousse selections. As far as I can tell.
The new place is good too.
Go Salem! Two great wine stores in addition to Bung Hole and Steves. |
Amanda (Amamba)
Username: Amamba
Post Number: 81
Registered: 3-2005
| | Posted on Monday, March 03, 2008 - 9:41 am: | |
Dan - But I'm not interested in buying singles or making my own six pack. That is of no value to me. I agree with Tim that the beer at Pamplemousse is way too expensive when I can get the exact same thing for less at a variety of other stores. If I was Dianne, I would take a close look at my beer/wine prices and readjust them downwards. Maybe one idea is that she can sell six packs for one price (lower), then if you buy singles or mix/match six packs.
As for her wine selection, it pales in comparison to Eric's. Also, I have been appalled for many years at the fact that Dianne stores much of her wine at Pamplemousse upright. As everyone knows, this is not good for long term storage of wine as it can cause the cork to dry out.
I am a big fan of Pamplemousse and I think it is a great store, but I think she doesn't have the edge in terms of beer/wine over Salem Wine Imports. |
Linda (Bertz)
Username: Bertz
Post Number: 68
Registered: 8-2004
| | Posted on Saturday, March 01, 2008 - 5:15 pm: | |
Just curious, but have the squabbling downtown wine stores ironed out their differences? |
Shagyard (Shagyard)
Username: Shagyard
Post Number: 75
Registered: 3-2005
| | Posted on Saturday, March 01, 2008 - 2:55 pm: | |
Pamplemousse is hosting an event on March 15 with Picklepot. Various Salem and north shore places are going to be there with food and beer and wine, as well as local artist's Check it out. It sounds like it will be a fun event. Its $20 in advance and $25 at the door. http://www.pmousse.com/spring_fest.html |
Dan Shuman (Bicyclemacgyver)
Username: Bicyclemacgyver
Post Number: 2
Registered: 2-2008
| | Posted on Saturday, March 01, 2008 - 4:20 pm: | |
I don't think there beer is overpriced at all for a individual craft brews and imports. Remember most places don't allow you to buy singles or make your own six pack. That is what you can do at Pamplemousse, but you pay a little extra. You'd be amazed at how little money is made on selling beer.
Do you all know about Spring Fling? Saturday, March 15th 3-6pm. $20 in advance/$25 at door.
Local Breweries Harpoon, Cape Ann, Mercury, Ipswich and Cody Brewing will be sampling craft beers as well as International Favorites from Seaboard Products. Plus live music and food and more. http://www.pmousse.com/home |
Droppin Biscuits (Droppin_biscuits)
Username: Droppin_biscuits
Post Number: 99
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Friday, February 29, 2008 - 11:50 pm: | |
I make the homebrewskis...good ••••...but craft beer is like music...support the good ••••.
Sobek is right..beer is going UP UP UP. Still worth it if you ask me....a beer with 14% alc is worth the money.
Old Rasputin=Greatness |
Robert E. Simoneau (Draconusrex)
Username: Draconusrex
Post Number: 682
Registered: 12-2006
| | Posted on Friday, February 29, 2008 - 6:24 pm: | |
Of course, you could always start making Home Brew. |
Sobek (Sobek)
Username: Sobek
Post Number: 78
Registered: 11-2005
| | Posted on Friday, February 29, 2008 - 11:30 am: | |
"I find their beer somewhat over priced. Its too bad, as otherwise I'd shop there a lot more."
If you are feeling this way now, stand by. Beer in general is going up in price, quite a bit, starting this summer for two main reasons. 1) the price for diesel/gas has increased and 2) the price for wheat, barley, hops, etc. has jumped in price too.
All the more reason to support your local brewers. |
Droppin Biscuits (Droppin_biscuits)
Username: Droppin_biscuits
Post Number: 96
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Thursday, February 28, 2008 - 7:31 pm: | |
I think Pamplemousse has an ok selection. I like that they carry Ipswich, I think that's the best craft coming out of New England. They also have Lefthand which is realllly good...the milk stout is crazy...but other than that they don't have a ton. There really should be a craft beer store in Salem. |
Sobek (Sobek)
Username: Sobek
Post Number: 77
Registered: 11-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 - 1:01 pm: | |
Not only does Pamplemousse cover wine and beer, but they also have some good meade and honey wine. "Redstone", I believe, is the meadery. |
Tim (Tyanni)
Username: Tyanni
Post Number: 7
Registered: 2-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 - 2:30 pm: | |
Dan -
I agree that Pamplemousse is a great place, however, I find their beer somewhat overpriced. Its too bad, as otherwise I'd shop there a lot more. |
John Shea III (Jshea)
Username: Jshea
Post Number: 627
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 - 9:53 am: | |
smith:
That is true with domestic mass produced beers. Ale's have a shorter shelf life and should be turned over as quickly as possible. I like bitters but it is very delicate and England is just about the only place where you get a good variety. Because it breaks down so fast The Beer Works will not let you take their ESB home in a growler. |
William Conant (Conant)
Username: Conant
Post Number: 272
Registered: 2-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 - 7:51 am: | |
You are both correct. Don't know the reason for the clear glass. To your points that is why the British created IPA - India Pale Ale - the darker stronger brews did not survive the long and warm sea voyage to India. |
john smith (450bus)
Username: 450bus
Post Number: 899
Registered: 7-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, February 26, 2008 - 11:42 pm: | |
Draft beer gives some people the soggy muddy bottom, so don't be talking like it's all superior to safe, clean, bottled beer. |
Dan Shuman (Bicyclemacgyver)
Username: Bicyclemacgyver
Post Number: 1
Registered: 2-2008
| | Posted on Tuesday, February 26, 2008 - 11:49 pm: | |
If you want a very good beer selection in Salem, check out Pamplemousse. They sell many wines and kitchen accessories. But they also have a diverse selection of mead and a unique beer selection. I should know as I am a self proclaimed beer connoisseur. Pamplemousse has a wide range of beers from the US, Belgium, Germany and now Italy, yes Italy.
Diane, who owns Pamplemousse, checks with me periodically and we decide on new beers to bring in. If there is a beer you are looking for or one that you haven't tried Shop Local and give Pamplemousse a try for a great beer selection. A nice option that they have is that you can make your own six pack, which many beer store don't allow. |
John Shea III (Jshea)
Username: Jshea
Post Number: 626
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, February 26, 2008 - 8:58 pm: | |
All of the fresh drafts taste great on the other side of the pond. Bottles just do not do some brews justice. |
Carlos Los Gato (Carlos_los_gato)
Username: Carlos_los_gato
Post Number: 55
Registered: 9-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, February 26, 2008 - 10:01 pm: | |
William,
Sam Smith's is great in London, but suffers from the clear bottle they export in. The clear glass allows in UV light which will react with the hop compounds and make.... skunk aroma. Not pleasant when you've just dropped $10 on a sixer. |
William Conant (Conant)
Username: Conant
Post Number: 270
Registered: 2-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, February 26, 2008 - 4:44 pm: | |
Just for the record Mr. Shea - Samuel Smith is a superb real ale and the last to utilize the classic Yorkshire Square system of fermentation solely in stone squares.
The rich Samuel Smith strain of yeast at The Old Brewery dates from the early 1900s. Any bad bottles would be due to handling anfd being around too long as you correctly stated. Their is a Pub devoted to Smiths beers near the site of St Paul's Cathedral, at Ludgate Hill in London. Well worth the trip to London. Ahh for a fresh pint of that stuff. |
Sobek (Sobek)
Username: Sobek
Post Number: 76
Registered: 11-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, February 26, 2008 - 8:34 am: | |
Eric has, or had, some good lambic beer. |
Amanda (Amamba)
Username: Amamba
Post Number: 80
Registered: 3-2005
| | Posted on Monday, February 25, 2008 - 9:28 pm: | |
Eric does stock beer, and in fact one day while my husband and I were there he asked our opinion on what beer to carry. If there is something in particular that you would like, stop by and talk to him about it. |
Geoff Millar (Gmillar)
Username: Gmillar
Post Number: 2
Registered: 2-2008
| | Posted on Monday, February 25, 2008 - 6:00 pm: | |
I think they have a little beer. I know Pamplemousse has some. I'm sure if you have specific requests either would try to fulfill them. |
John Shea III (Jshea)
Username: Jshea
Post Number: 614
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Monday, February 25, 2008 - 10:37 am: | |
Sammy Smiths taste awful, they spent too much time sitting in shipping containers. Fresh domestics are better. |
howard (Howard)
Username: Howard
Post Number: 182
Registered: 5-2006
| | Posted on Monday, February 25, 2008 - 8:31 am: | |
I dream of a fancy beer store in Salem. Salem wine imports has the upper hand to make it happen before someone else does. I know his focus is wine, but he would do very well with speciality beers... and Im not talking sammy smiths. |
edward m.haskell (Eddie_haskell)
Username: Eddie_haskell
Post Number: 91
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Sunday, February 24, 2008 - 12:12 pm: | |
PAX Simoneauaeauauauax |
Robert E. Simoneau (Draconusrex)
Username: Draconusrex
Post Number: 661
Registered: 12-2006
| | Posted on Saturday, February 23, 2008 - 10:19 pm: | |
OK Eddie...PAX? |
edward m.haskell (Eddie_haskell)
Username: Eddie_haskell
Post Number: 87
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, February 23, 2008 - 7:54 pm: | |
Robert -
I just like goofing on you. It's not every day that I get challenged to a duel at sunrise...
LOLOLOL |
Humanatee (Enrico_palazzo)
Username: Enrico_palazzo
Post Number: 1076
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, February 23, 2008 - 8:16 pm: | |
im drinking wine from the wine store right now. good italian wine.
what would people think of a fancy beer store? |
love salem (Salem101)
Username: Salem101
Post Number: 661
Registered: 2-2006
| | Posted on Friday, February 22, 2008 - 8:19 pm: | |
Robert he shouln't throw stones because Eddies happy that Jmode stays open late. That makes him either a Woman or a cross dresser. |
Robert E. Simoneau (Draconusrex)
Username: Draconusrex
Post Number: 658
Registered: 12-2006
| | Posted on Friday, February 22, 2008 - 2:21 pm: | |
Well Eddie Boy, it takes one to know one, and only a FOOL like YOU would misspell a name constantly that is right in front of him.
Now go away to whatever rock you hide under. I don't have time to waste on insignificant no body's who only pop in to hurl insults at their betters. |
edward m.haskell (Eddie_haskell)
Username: Eddie_haskell
Post Number: 83
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Friday, February 22, 2008 - 12:40 pm: | |
Why am I not shocked to hear that Simoneauiaex shops at the FOOLS Mansion? |
Robert E. Simoneau (Draconusrex)
Username: Draconusrex
Post Number: 656
Registered: 12-2006
| | Posted on Friday, February 22, 2008 - 9:30 am: | |
I'm glad to here that Fool's Mansion will be reopening. I do, occasionally, buy clothing there, and was sorry to see it leave. |
Sandra (Sandra)
Username: Sandra
Post Number: 12
Registered: 11-2006
| | Posted on Thursday, February 21, 2008 - 12:32 pm: | |
Update on the Fools Mansion. I've had an email from the owner who says that a couple has bought the place and plan to keep it pretty much as is. Planned opening for April.
I know it's not a place that appeals to the locals, but a good business that brings in revenue for the area is always a good thing. |
Droppin Biscuits (Droppin_biscuits)
Username: Droppin_biscuits
Post Number: 77
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Sunday, January 13, 2008 - 12:23 pm: | |
is that the place across from leslies? man, more things have gone it that space than just about anywhere in town. |
John Shea III (Jshea)
Username: Jshea
Post Number: 499
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, January 12, 2008 - 11:18 am: | |
DB:
Check out The Graphic Jam on North St. |
Droppin Biscuits (Droppin_biscuits)
Username: Droppin_biscuits
Post Number: 66
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, January 12, 2008 - 10:53 am: | |
liutenanttilla...everything you mentioned closing is fine by me. why isn't a life is good open in pickering wharf? i mean...they have a shop in gloucester....it may be yuppieish, but at least it's local.
i think salem is in need for someone to start their own clothing line like Black Dog or Vineyard Vines. |
Humanatee (Enrico_palazzo)
Username: Enrico_palazzo
Post Number: 955
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Thursday, January 10, 2008 - 8:25 am: | |
i did almost all my xmas shopping at sophia's across from the hawthorne hotel. the shop owner's father was there and sold me on some really cool artist gifts. i got rave review at unwrappin time. the rest of my shopping happened at salem liquors next to crosbie's and the record exchange where i bought a bag full of used cds for $30. cant beat it.
why would anyone want to go to the mall? the mall sucks. |
Federalist (Federalist)
Username: Federalist
Post Number: 141
Registered: 1-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 09, 2008 - 5:32 pm: | |
The whole idea that seems to escape Mckraut is the benefit you get back for supporting local small businesses. Business people pay a much higher rate of property taxes on their commercial property than we do on our residential homes. Therefore, if business thrives and all the shops are full, our residential property taxes are kept down.
I'm not in favor of handouts to business, such as TIF's, favoring instead to support local business with my patronage. I think it's the best way to make our city thrive. This new wine shop is a wonderful addition to the commercial and residential community. |
lieutenantlila (Lieutenantlila)
Username: Lieutenantlila
Post Number: 306
Registered: 10-2004
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 09, 2008 - 10:51 pm: | |
Robert--
I went for a walk Tuesday, in the BEAUTIFUL weather, and was horrified by all the "rats leaving a sinking ship!" Samantha's is for sale; Fool's Mansion is closing; Feed Your Head closed; Creature Crossing never really opened in the old Biscotti Cuchina location next to Papa John's, also gone; Pickering Wharf is a ghost town; Terror on the Wharf has a For Rent sign in the window; people were moving stuff out of Gourmet Fare as I passed by; The Legal Connection next to city hall is empty; Cool Jewels in the mall lasted about three weeks (exaggeration!)
At least there is hope on the horizon. Hex will open in March next to Laura Lanes. Bella Luna is being taken over and renamed 62 on Wharf. Roosevelts is opening "really soon." Front Street is booming. J. Mode, according to the Gazette, had a better Christmas season than they anticipated. Derby Street in the Lofts building is GREAT! Treasures Over Time is still there. Washington Square Studio had a great Christmas season, as well. Naumkeag Antiques, which has been there for eons, next to the Hawthorne, seems to be newly energized.
Things are depressing downtown; things are GREAT downtown!
"It was the best of times. It was the worst of times."
Wendy |
Robert E. Simoneau (Draconusrex)
Username: Draconusrex
Post Number: 577
Registered: 12-2006
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 09, 2008 - 1:21 pm: | |
I find myself in the somewhat rare position of agreeing with Eddie Haskel.
I've invested time and money to live in the city that I always have wanted to live in. My condo is in a converted 1914 house on Cabot Street. Not exactly in downtown, but close enough that I walk there frequently. Wanting new and interesting shops near my home doesn't make me a Beacon Hill Wannabe, or any other type of wannabe. I'm where I "wannabe" already.
I often buy local because there is a certain "Salem' flavor to the businesses (even the new ones) here. Now, anyone who thinks I mean by "Salem Flavor" tourist-trap-souvenir-witchcraft-supply-shops alone (I admit, I do sometimes shop in these type of establishments, too) hasn't taken a walk in the downtown and wharf districts lately.
The new wine shop, in my opinion, is not much of a threat to Pamplemousse. While they both sell wine, ranging from not so expensive to fairly expensive, and both sell unique types of wine, wine is only a very small part of Pamplemousses' inventory. There is plenty of business to sustain both, and both are uniquely Salem.
Coffee shop[s, restaurants, and other businesses are starting to fill long empty storefronts. There is work going on down on Pickering Wharf on at least 2 new businesses, at least one on Lafayette Street, (at the old "Dracula's Castle")and one on the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall. Is this a bad thing.
Unfortunately, some "old friends" are closing. Samantha's is for sale, lock, stock, and barrel. It may survive with new owners. The Fools Mansion is closing for good at the end of this month. It is not lack of business that is causing these businesses to close, though. It is the desire of the present owners to retire after years of hard work!
I admit that some of these emporiums are definitely targeting a narrow band of clientele, but what does that matter? If they don't carry what I need, I go elsewhere. This is called "Free Enterprise," and it is the basis of our economy in this country. Not everyone is for everything, but if the trend I see is actually reality (as I believe it is) there may actually be something for everybody!
On another thread, people have tossed around ideas for what they would like to see downtown, and, wonder of wonders, we don't all agree with each other! Imagine that, people actually having their own opinion about things without some advertising company or government agency telling them what to think! As Robin Williams used to say: "What a concept!"
We have everything from coffee to wine available to us from places other than chain stores or the limited selection at the local packy.
I say, if a new business opens up, go in and check it out. if you don't like it, then go somewhere else. If there are enough people interested in their product/service, they will prosper, and so will the city. If there is not, they will close and move elsewhere, and someone else will take their place.
I encourage you to support local establishments, but if they don't have what you wish, then go elsewhere. This city, as it has for the last 382 years, will survive. Salem has re-invented itself before, and will again! |
SalemGal (Salemgal29)
Username: Salemgal29
Post Number: 219
Registered: 9-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 09, 2008 - 12:52 pm: | |
About three cups, Mike, but at home, not at Front Street. I mix Trader Joe's 2/3 hi test, 1/3 decaf. |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 1158
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 09, 2008 - 12:13 pm: | |
And how many cups have you had this morning, Salemgal? |
SalemGal (Salemgal29)
Username: Salemgal29
Post Number: 217
Registered: 9-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 09, 2008 - 11:39 am: | |
The coffee at Front Street rules!!!! |
John Shea III (Jshea)
Username: Jshea
Post Number: 492
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 09, 2008 - 10:50 am: | |
Even though I live closer to Peabody I like to visit downtown and support the businesses there it is a nice place to walk around. |
Foroct Fralion (Foroct_fralion)
Username: Foroct_fralion
Post Number: 40
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 09, 2008 - 10:08 am: | |
I agree with Eddie Haskell 100%. I too bought a home in down town and work to improve it, not only for me but for all my neighbors. I also make an effort to support local businesses because it is their charm that makes this city so great. Whenever I see someone with a Starbucks or DnD cup I always inform them of Front Street Cafe or one of our other local coffee shops. Buy local and keep the independent business owner in business! |
edward m.haskell (Eddie_haskell)
Username: Eddie_haskell
Post Number: 51
Registered: 6-2007
| | Posted on Tuesday, January 08, 2008 - 10:54 am: | |
Dont be a fool McKraut.
We are not Beacon Hill wannabes for wanting nice shops and services in our downtown.
I invested in my home (Derby Lofts) and others investing around me makes a better place for me to live. If I have to pay a dollar or two more for a book at Cornerstone, I do it. Or if Salem Wine Imports or Pamplemousse are a few bits more, thats fine.
Buy local, have a soul!! |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 1121
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Monday, January 07, 2008 - 4:02 pm: | |
I like that, McKraut.
By the way, belated Happy New Year! |
Foroct Fralion (Foroct_fralion)
Username: Foroct_fralion
Post Number: 39
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Monday, January 07, 2008 - 3:00 pm: | |
Looks like it was reviewed a couple of weeks ago. |
ISSI (Admin)
Username: Admin
Post Number: 640
Registered: 3-2003
| | Posted on Monday, January 07, 2008 - 2:08 pm: | |
Salem Wine Imports
32 Church Street | Salem, MA 01970 | 978-741-WINE (9463) |
howard (Howard)
Username: Howard
Post Number: 148
Registered: 5-2006
| | Posted on Monday, January 07, 2008 - 12:26 pm: | |
Got an email about the official grand opening. The owner mentions that they will also start selling craft beers w/in the next week or so!!!
Joy to the world. |
McKraut (Mckraut)
Username: Mckraut
Post Number: 245
Registered: 7-2006
| | Posted on Monday, December 24, 2007 - 1:02 pm: | |
"Don't worry about it, McKraut. I think they'll get along just fine without your stingy patronage."
I wasn't worried in the first place. I'm sure that the local Beacon Hill wannabes will keep the overpriced novelty shops alive and well. |
Shagyard (Shagyard)
Username: Shagyard
Post Number: 63
Registered: 3-2005
| | Posted on Saturday, December 22, 2007 - 6:59 pm: | |
Stopped by Salem Wine Importers today. they seem to have a good selection of wine- and not all of it is in. Eric, I believe his name is, was very helpful and friendly. They have a tasting room in the back, as I know was mentioned here before, and had 8 wines (4 red and 4 white) on "tap" for your tasting. I saw bottles that ranged in price from 10.99 and on up to $50 and $60 a bottle. The latter is out of my price range. They don't have all the wines in and are expecting the ribbon cutting hard opening in January.
I am also a fan of Pampelmousse. I was also in there today- not purchasing wine but other items. I will buy from both stores as I like both stores. I know one is newer then the other. I see nothing wrong with a little competition.
Just thought I would put my two cents in. Happy holidays to all and happy drinking. I know I will! Stephanie |
John Shea III (Jshea)
Username: Jshea
Post Number: 444
Registered: 7-2007
| | Posted on Saturday, December 22, 2007 - 8:45 am: | |
I hope both shops prosper, specialty shops have their place. They can provide wine from the small vineyards that would otherwise be lost at a place like Kappy's. I cringe at paying more than ten dollars for a bottle of wine and it is unlikely that my patronage is in their business plan.
Enrico:
I hope they can provide you with a good vintage of Ripple. Do they still make that stuff? I has been many moons since I was a teenager. |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 1017
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Friday, December 21, 2007 - 10:39 pm: | |
Don't worry about it, McKraut. I think they'll get along just fine without your stingy patronage. |
Amanda (Amamba)
Username: Amamba
Post Number: 72
Registered: 3-2005
| | Posted on Friday, December 21, 2007 - 6:17 pm: | |
I visited this store today and it was lovely! The owner was very nice and definitely knowledgeable about wine. He had some lovely, high end wines such as the Stag's Leap Artemis but also a great selection of wines in the $10-$15 range, which is where I think you can really find value. He also has a tasting room in the back.
Overall, the selection was somewhat small, but that is to be expected for a small shop. I liked what I saw, and will be back many times in the future. I have a 52 bottle wine fridge built into my kitchen and I like to keep it stocked! |
McKraut (Mckraut)
Username: Mckraut
Post Number: 242
Registered: 7-2006
| | Posted on Friday, December 21, 2007 - 1:34 pm: | |
The whole "support the little guy thing" never flew with me. At least not in regards to general businesses. (Hardware, grocery, liquor, electronics) If the store sells something unique that you can't get elsewhere then ok. For example some rare vintage and great personalized service. But if its the same selection as the others that sell for less and your just looking to buy some wine that you like, then why pay more? Opening a small business shouldn't be an automatic charity case. However, many small businesses seem to be marketed as such. They should have something to offer.
If I know I can get a better deal on a particular item somewhere I will just go there. And I don't mean a few cent difference.
Lets say they sell beer. If I know I can't get a pint bottle of Belhaven Wee Heavy for 3.50 at Kappy's and this place sells it for $5. I'm going to Kappy's... in the snow.... proudly.
I will check this shop out though. |
SalemGal (Salemgal29)
Username: Salemgal29
Post Number: 206
Registered: 9-2005
| | Posted on Thursday, December 20, 2007 - 8:35 am: | |
Federalist...your post needs to be drilled into people's minds constantly. I'm tired of hearing people whine about 'why there isn't this or that in Downtown Salem', but you ask them when the last time was that they shopped there, they'll say three years ago. While I happen to be a big Pamplemousse fan and try to buy most of my wines there, I'll take a look at the new wine store and give it a shot. It certainly looks good from the outside. |
howard (Howard)
Username: Howard
Post Number: 143
Registered: 5-2006
| | Posted on Thursday, December 20, 2007 - 9:23 am: | |
Federalist. Agreed 210%. I went to Salem Wine Imports last night and it's amazing! A phenomenal selection of wine and a true experience. Not just a place to buy something. The owner knows his stuff and the business is a wonderful addition to our local merchant portfolio ... one that certainly wont flop and can be appreciated by anyone... |
Federalist (Federalist)
Username: Federalist
Post Number: 136
Registered: 1-2005
| | Posted on Wednesday, December 19, 2007 - 6:22 pm: | |
McKraut, now you are being unreasonable.
Does the corner variety store offer two liter soda or other items with the deep discounts supermarkets have? No, of course not. Supermarkets can buy in large bulk, which gives them the ability to charge less, because they pay less.
One factoid about the liquor store industry: Wholesale prices are posted in the Beverage Journal, a trade magazine the size of a phone book that I believe is still around and is updated once a month. In it, stores are offered discounts for buying certain specials that change each month. The catch of course is the quantity you need to buy to reach the special price. If you have the space to store it, then chances are you will be able to sell it at retail for less than a store that doesn't have the space.
If you shop strictly on price, then a small shop will never satisfy your needs. I expect to pay more at a small shop on average, but i'm willing to trade that to save myself some gasoline and the stress of our winter driving conditions in order to support a local merchant. Isn't that what living in downtown and trying to expand our business tax base is all about? |
McKraut (Mckraut)
Username: Mckraut
Post Number: 240
Registered: 7-2006
| | Posted on Wednesday, December 19, 2007 - 10:26 am: | |
Thunderbird? Is that like Nightrain or something or more like Boones?
Over priced meaning more than what Kappy's or Marketplace would charge for the same bottle. |
Humanatee (Enrico_palazzo)
Username: Enrico_palazzo
Post Number: 861
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, December 19, 2007 - 6:04 am: | |
you think think theyll have boone's farm or mad dog 20/20? |
michael peter blatty (Mike_blatty)
Username: Mike_blatty
Post Number: 997
Registered: 3-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, December 19, 2007 - 12:49 am: | |
Nice, McKraut. |
Sobek (Sobek)
Username: Sobek
Post Number: 61
Registered: 11-2005
| | Posted on Tuesday, December 18, 2007 - 8:17 pm: | |
What's over priced to you? Anything that costs more than a bottle of Thunderbird? |
Robert E. Simoneau (Draconusrex)
Username: Draconusrex
Post Number: 515
Registered: 12-2006
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