Smith & Vine

Cobble Hill
246 Smith St.
between Degraw & Douglass Sts.

P: 718.243.2864

A friendly and full service wine and spirit merchant that is owned by the same people who bring us Stinky Brooklyn, a wonderful cheese and charcuterie shop across the street.

What's great:

They have a distinguishing selection of Scotches and other whiskeys, including several from small and exceptional producers. They have lots of Brooklyn pride and will have "Go Local!!!" promotions with tie-ins with local musicians. They have seminars and tastings which while not free -- prices will vary depending on what's being tasted -- are truly educational. Tastings include ones for brown liquors as well as wines. Details are posted on their web site.

What to know:

The shop is small but they have a wide and deep selection of wines at all price points including a table filled with ones for about $10. Wines are labeled by price and country of origin but any other notes are a bit nonsensical, encouraging customers to talk with the knowledgable staff. They're open 7 days a week but only deliver 6 (not on Sundays). Delivery is free in the neighborhood, $5 to other parts of Brooklyn and $20 to Manhattan.