I had heard about Total Wine from numerous people but have never lived close to one. When I spotted it on my way to IKEA one day, I knew I had to check it out. A couple weeks later after a family trip to IKEA, we decided to stop by.
As soon as we walked in we were greeted. There was a lot of staff on the floor so it was easy to find someone to ask a question, but there wasn't someone around every corner asking if you needed help with anything. Browsing is encouraged, which is nice. My husband has been looking around forever for a "turtle" so he can make his Black Velvets easily but the three or four people he asked had no idea what it was. (He finally ordered it off Amazon)
I found a wine that I LOVE and am unable to find anywhere outside of Washington State (Chateau Ste. Michelle Dry Riesling). The beer selection is awesome and they offer singles if you are into mixing your six packs. I wish I was more prepared and had an empty growler with me because they do growler fills as well.
My girls were thirsty and I couldn't find a water fountain (it's over by the bathroom, of course, as I later found out) so I bought a bottle of water off the shelf. The cashier told me that I could put it in their chiller if I wanted it cold. That was pretty cool.
After reading a bunch of reviews, fellow yelpers keep saying that this place is way better then BevMo, which I have never been to but now need to check out. I'm sure this will continue to be our brewsky shopping destination when we are in the area.