Behind the Bottle: The Local Sip That Sets Us Apart
The Local Sip That Sets Us Apart
At the Co-op, our Beer and Wine Specialist Katie focuses on building strong relationships with local vendors like Abernathy Wines. While larger retailers tend to operate in a more corporate manner, bringing in big-name brands, we make it a priority to support local breweries and wineries. Of course, we offer the bigger brands too, but the real magic happens when we can connect with local producers and keep things close to home. It’s a balancing act, but one she truly enjoys.
The department always keeps in mind what the people of Davis love, what they need, and what they want to see on our shelves.
One thing Katie really appreciates about being a part of the Co-op is the independence she has when it comes to making buying decisions. After 18 years here, with three of those in the beer, wine, and spirits department, it’s incredibly rewarding to know that so much trust is placed in her and the team. The department is small, just a handful of employees, so every product you see on the shelves has been carefully curated—featuring the largest selection of craft beer, a wide variety of local and limited-edition finds, and endless options. Plus, you can mix and match to create your own custom six-pack!
We also make a point to highlight smaller beer and wine vendors by hosting frequent demos in the store.
This gives vendors, especially those without a full tasting room, a chance to introduce their products to the community. It’s all part of the educational experience, both for our customers and for us. We’re constantly tasting new products to see what’s the best fit for the Davis community. This approach—combining local focus, flexibility, and education—is what really sets us apart.