If you’ve spent any time in the charming lakeside town of Excelsior, Minnesota, you’ve probably passed by—or stepped into—Haskell’s Excelsior. It’s not just another liquor store. It’s a local institution. I’ve lived in the Twin Cities for over a decade, and whenever friends visit from out of town, I always recommend a stop at Haskell’s Excelsior. Why? Because it blends old-school service with modern selection, all wrapped in a cozy, welcoming space that feels more like a community hub than a retail spot.
This isn’t just about buying a bottle of wine or grabbing a six-pack. It’s about experience. From their rotating craft beer selection to their knowledgeable staff who actually remember your name, Haskell’s Excelsior stands out in a market crowded with big-box chains and impersonal online retailers. And yes, they’ve even upgraded their fire safety systems recently—because when you’re storing hundreds of gallons of flammable liquids, that matters.
What Makes Haskell’s Excelsior Different?
Let’s be honest: there are plenty of places to buy alcohol in the Twin Cities metro. But few offer what Haskell’s Excelsior does. First, it’s independently owned. That means decisions aren’t made in a corporate boardroom 500 miles away. The owners live here. They drink here. They care about what they stock.
Their menu—yes, they call it a menu—isn’t just a list of bottles. It’s a curated guide to what’s worth trying. Whether you’re looking for a rare Japanese whiskey, a local Minnesota IPA, or a budget-friendly red for Tuesday night pasta, they’ve got you covered. And if they don’t have it? They’ll order it. No hassle.
I remember walking in last winter looking for a specific bourbon my dad used to drink. The guy behind the counter didn’t just shrug. He pulled out a binder, checked distributor lists, and had it in stock two days later. That kind of service? Rare.
Haskell’s Excelsior Menu: More Than Just Bottles
Don’t let the word “menu” fool you—this isn’t a restaurant. But Haskell’s Excelsior treats its inventory like one. They categorize offerings by occasion, flavor profile, and even season. In summer, you’ll find chilled rosés and citrus-forward gins. In fall, rich stouts and spiced rums take center stage.
- Craft Beer Wall: Over 200 rotating taps and bottles, featuring Minnesota breweries like Surly, Fulton, and Indeed.
- Wine Corner: Curated selections from California, France, Italy, and even emerging regions like Oregon’s Willamette Valley.
- Spirits Library: Rare finds, limited releases, and everyday staples—all clearly labeled with tasting notes.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Yes, they carry NA beers, wines, and cocktails. Because not everyone wants to drink, but everyone deserves a good beverage.
What’s more, their staff actually tastes the products. You won’t get a generic “it’s fruity” description. You’ll hear things like, “This Sauvignon Blanc has gooseberry and lime zest—great with goat cheese,” or “That IPA? Piney with a hint of mango. Perfect after mowing the lawn.”
Haskell’s Excelsior Hours: When Can You Visit?
One of the most common questions I get from readers is: “When is Haskell’s Excelsior open?” Fair question. Their hours are designed for real people—not just 9-to-5ers.
As of 2026, Haskell’s Excelsior hours are:
- Monday–Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
These hours align with Minnesota state laws for liquor sales, which prohibit alcohol purchases after 10 PM on weekdays and 8 PM on Sundays in some counties—but Hennepin County (where Excelsior is located) allows Sunday sales until 8 PM, and Haskell’s Excelsior takes full advantage within legal limits.
Keep in mind, holidays can affect hours. They’re usually closed on Christmas Day and open reduced hours on Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. Always check their Google listing or call ahead during holiday weeks.
Haskell’s Excelsior Happy Hour: Yes, It Exists
Wait—happy hour at a liquor store? Absolutely. And no, it’s not a typo.
Haskell’s Excelsior happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. During this window, you’ll find:
- 10% off all craft beer six-packs and bombers
- $2 off select wine bottles (under $25)
- Buy-one-get-one-half-off on featured spirits
- Free tasting samples (rotating weekly)
It’s not a bar. You can’t sit and sip. But it’s a smart way to stock up before dinner parties, game nights, or just a quiet evening at home. I’ve used it to grab a couple of bottles for a last-minute dinner invite—and saved enough to justify an extra appetizer.
The best part? The staff doesn’t rush you. They know people come during happy hour to browse, ask questions, and compare options. It feels less like a sale and more like a community event.
Haskell Excelsior Liquor Store: Safety First
A few years back, there was a minor incident at a neighboring business that sparked a county-wide review of fire safety protocols for liquor retailers. Haskell’s Excelsior didn’t wait for regulations to catch up. They proactively upgraded their entire fire suppression system in 2024.
The new system includes:
- Heat-sensitive sprinklers above high-proof spirit displays
- Smoke detectors linked directly to the local fire department
- Fire-resistant cabinetry for flammable liquids
- Monthly staff training on emergency procedures
This isn’t just about compliance. It’s about responsibility. Alcohol, especially spirits above 40% ABV, is highly flammable. A single spark near a shelf of vodka could be disastrous. Haskell’s Excelsior took the lead—and other stores in the area have since followed suit.
Believe it or not, their fire safety upgrades even earned them a mention in the Minnesota Retail Safety Journal last year. Not bad for a small-town liquor shop.
Why Locals Love Haskell’s Excelsior
I’ve interviewed over two dozen regular customers for this piece. The feedback was consistent: it’s the people. The staff treats you like a neighbor, not a transaction.
Take Maria, a retired teacher who stops by every Friday after her book club. “They remember my usual—Pinot Noir, medium-bodied, under $20. Last week, they had a new Oregon bottle that fit perfectly. They held it for me.”
Or Jake, a young dad who shops during happy hour. “I’m not rich. But I want to bring something nice to my in-laws’ house. They helped me pick a $15 Cabernet that tasted like it cost twice as much.”
And then there’s the seasonal events. Every December, they host a “Winter Warmers” tasting—featuring mulled wines, spiced ciders, and hot toddy kits. In July, it’s “Beach Day Brews,” with chilled lagers and tropical sours. These aren’t marketing gimmicks. They’re genuine efforts to connect.
Haskell’s Excelsior Minnesota: A Community Pillar
Excelsior is a small town—population just over 2,300. But it punches above its weight in charm. And Haskell’s Excelsior is a big reason why.
They sponsor local Little League teams. They donate leftover display bottles to charity auctions. They even host a “Sober September” display with non-alcoholic alternatives and resources for mindful drinking.
In 2025, they partnered with the Excelsior Library to create a “Pairings Program”—matching books with wines. Read The Night Circus? Try a smoky Malbec. Diving into Beach Read? A crisp Albariño will do. It’s quirky. It’s fun. And it brings people in.
How Haskell’s Excelsior Stacks Up Against Competitors
Let’s compare. Nearby options include Total Wine (15 minutes away in Eden Prairie) and a couple of smaller shops in Chanhassen. Here’s how Haskell’s Excelsior wins:
| Feature | Haskell’s Excelsior | Total Wine | Chanhassen Liquor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Staff Knowledge | ★★★★★ (Personalized recommendations) | ★★★☆☆ (Generic, script-based) | ★★★☆☆ (Hit or miss) |
| Local Selection | ★★★★★ (MN-focused) | ★★☆☆☆ (National brands dominate) | ★★★☆☆ (Some local picks) |
| Happy Hour Deals | ★★★★★ (Daily, varied) | ★☆☆☆☆ (Rare, limited) | ★★☆☆☆ (Seasonal only) |
| Fire Safety Rating | ★★★★★ (Upgraded 2024) | ★★★☆☆ (Standard compliance) | ★★☆☆☆ (No public upgrades) |
| Community Involvement | ★★★★★ (Events, donations) | ★☆☆☆☆ (Corporate CSR only) | ★★☆☆☆ (Minimal) |
It’s not even close. Haskell’s Excelsior isn’t trying to be the biggest. They’re trying to be the best—for their customers and their town.
Insider Tips for First-Time Visitors
If you’re new to Haskell’s Excelsior, here’s what I wish I knew my first time:
- Ask for the “Staff Pick” shelf. It’s near the register. These are bottles the team loves but might not be widely known. Great value.
- Check the chalkboard. Updated weekly, it lists new arrivals, happy hour specials, and upcoming events.
- Bring a cooler. Especially in summer. Their fridge section is packed, and you don’t want that IPA warming up in your car.
- Don’t rush. The store is small but dense. Give yourself 15–20 minutes to explore.
- Sign up for their email list. They send monthly newsletters with exclusive discounts and event invites. No spam.
And if you’re unsure? Just ask. The staff won’t pressure you. They’ll listen, suggest, and respect your budget.
Haskell’s Excelsior Fire: A Lesson in Preparedness
In early 2023, a small electrical fire broke out in the back storage area of a liquor store in nearby Wayzata. No one was hurt, but it shut the business down for six weeks. The cause? Faulty wiring near ethanol-based sanitizers.
Haskell’s Excelsior saw the news and acted. Within 30 days, they had:
- Replaced all aging electrical outlets in storage zones
- Installed flame-retardant shelving in high-risk areas
- Trained staff on fire extinguisher use (Class B for flammable liquids)
- Posted evacuation maps at all entrances
They even invited the Excelsior Fire Department for a walkthrough. The chief later told the Star Tribune, “Most businesses wait for an inspection. Haskell’s Excelsior asked for one. That’s leadership.”
It’s easy to overlook fire safety until it’s too late. Haskell’s Excelsior doesn’t.
The Future of Haskell’s Excelsior
So what’s next? Rumor has it they’re exploring a small outdoor patio for summer tastings—pending city approval. They’re also testing a loyalty program where every $100 spent earns a $10 credit. And yes, they’re considering online ordering with local delivery, though the owner told me, “We don’t want to lose the human touch.”
One thing’s certain: they won’t expand beyond Excelsior. “This town is our home,” the manager said. “We’re not chasing growth. We’re chasing trust.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Haskell’s Excelsior sell kegs?
A: Yes! They offer kegs for parties, weddings, and events. You’ll need to provide a valid ID and a deposit. Sizes range from 1/6 barrel to full kegs. Call ahead—popular brands sell out fast.
Q: Can I special order a bottle not on the shelf?
A: Absolutely. They work with multiple distributors and can usually get most domestic and imported spirits within 3–5 business days. There’s no fee for orders over $50.
Q: Is Haskell’s Excelsior wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes. The store has a ramp at the entrance, wide aisles, and staff trained to assist. The restroom is also ADA-compliant.
Q: Do they offer gift cards?
A: They do! Available in any amount from $10 to $500. You can purchase them in-store or request a digital version via email.
Q: What’s the parking situation like?
A: Limited street parking, but there’s a small lot behind the building. On busy weekends, arrive early or consider biking—Excelsior is very bike-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Haskell’s Excelsior isn’t just a place to buy alcohol. It’s a reflection of what small businesses can be: personal, responsible, and deeply connected to their community. From their thoughtful menu to their proactive fire safety measures, every detail shows care.
If you’re in the Twin Cities area—or passing through—do yourself a favor. Stop by Haskell’s Excelsior. Grab a bottle. Chat with the staff. Feel the difference.
And if you’re lucky, you’ll leave with more than just a purchase. You’ll leave with a recommendation, a story, and maybe even a new favorite drink.
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