Business & Tech

Blizzard Boosts Liquor Sales in Commack

Long Island Wine and Spirit Merchants is offering a special coupon just for Blizzard Nemo.

What’s the most important item to stock up for a blizzard? According to social media, it’s alcohol. 

“Forget milk & bread. Heading right to Long Island Wine & Spirits!” Linda Petrino, said on Twitter.

Bad weather is big business for liquor stores, as customers stock up on the essentials for a weekend indoors.

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“It’s going to be crazy today and tomorrow,” Adam Schneider, manager of Long Island Wine & Spirit Merchants in Commack said. 

The liquor store opened at 9 a.m. Thursday and has seen a steady flow of customers ever since, Schneider said. “Our very first customer this morning was someone who wanted to stock up for the storm. He said he didn’t want to have to drive in the snow or rain to get here.”

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As Commack residents are purchasing batteries, flashlights, bread and other Blizzard Nemo essentials, wine and beer is at the top of the list.

“I think people know they’re going to be stuck inside all weekend, so they decide what’s more important, milk or wine? I think wine wins a lot of the time,” Schneider said with a laugh.

The business is seizing the business opportunity by offering a special coupon for Thursday and Friday. Any purchase of six bottles of wine is 20 percent off or 25 percent off for a dozen.

“We look forward to snowstorms, especially now,” Schneider said. “It’s a slow time before Valentine’s Day, so as much as we hate the actual hurricanes, storms and blizzards, they’re great for us in the days before. Everyone is stuck at home, so might as well drink some booze.”

Schneider said that Cabernet is the most requested kind of alcohol during a snowstorm.

“It’s a hearty red, goes with food or by itself. That’s probably our biggest seller.”

Once your bar is full, don't forget these other storm essential supplies:

  • Canned and other non-perishable food
  • Manual can opener
  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • Gallons of drinkable water
  • Battery-operated radio
  • Several-days supply of important medications
  • Important phone numbers
  • Plenty of extra blankets and quilts


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