Meet Alice Virden-Speer, a Washington D.C. area native, and her husband, Doug, who proudly call Hamilton their hometown. They have been active members of this community since 2000 and have watched their three children, JD, Brooke, and Lindsey, grow up in the delightful Village of Hamilton.
At Crush Bottleshop, Alice is the heart and soul of the operation. With enthusiasm and expertise, she takes pleasure in helping customers explore the fascinating world of wine. Each selection in the shop is personally curated by Alice, ensuring that it caters to the unique tastes of their valued patrons. With a passion for exceptional service, she strives to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for everyone who walks through the door.
Drop by Crush Bottleshop, and you’ll experience the genuine hospitality of Alice and her team, the carefully selected wine collection, making your visit an unforgettable and enjoyable one.
What aspects of your work do you love the most?
One of the most rewarding moments for me at the store is when someone walks in with little to no knowledge about wine. I cherish the opportunity to teach them even a single aspect that empowers them in their wine choices. It brings me immense satisfaction, and I feel like I am fulfilling my role to the best of my abilities. Making wine accessible and enjoyable for everyone is truly a fulfilling mission for me.
How do you view or think about wine?
I strongly believe that wine is something that can be enjoyed by anyone, and it’s a lifelong journey of learning and discovery. In this world of wine, there’s no ultimate mastery; instead, we continuously expand our knowledge and appreciation, that process is ongoing, there will always be more to learn.
What is the background behind the creation of Crush?
As a dedicated resident for over 20 years, I’ve always had a dream of creating a unique retail experience right in the heart of Hamilton, New York. My wine journey began through our restaurant, Seven Oaks, where I developed a passion for wine and spirits. This passion led me to establish Crush Bottleshop in September 2019, a place where I could share my love for wine with others.
What do you want people to know about Crush if they haven’t shopped here yet?
I work diligently to ensure we have a diverse selection that caters to all budgets and tastes. I want everyone to know they can find something wonderful here, our prices are competitive and I’m committed to creating an inclusive and accessible wine shopping experience for all.