When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Total Wine & More
Why Total Wine & More is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Total Wine & More stands out as America's Wine Superstore®, being the nation's largest independent retailer of fine wine with a vast selection of over 8,000 wines across all major wine-producing regions globally. Founded in 1991 by brothers David and Robert Trone, it has grown into a robust network of 282 superstores in 29 states, making it an exceptional gathering spot for friends and wine enthusiasts alike. Shoppers can explore a diverse range of over 2,500 beers and more than 3,000 spirits, ensuring there is something for every taste and preference. The store's commitment to offering the lowest prices daily is supported by its tremendous buying power, allowing customers to enjoy premium selections affordably. The knowledgeable and extensively trained staff, including over 400 wine experts called Total Wine Professionals, enrich the shopping experience by providing expert recommendations and hosting tastings and seminars. With a welcoming environment that suits novices and experienced connoisseurs, Total Wine & More is a great place to meet, learn, and indulge in shared tastes of wine, beer, and spirits, making social gatherings both enjoyable and informative.
Here's what people think of Total Wine & More
As of recent, Total Wine & More holds a 4.6-star rating based on 603 reviews.
Customer reviews of Total Wine & More reveal a generally positive impression with a 4.6-star rating based on over 600 reviews. Many patrons praise the extensive product variety and competitive pricing, highlighting the convenience of finding rare and popular wines, beers, and spirits under one roof. Positive reviews repeatedly mention the knowledgeable and friendly staff who assist shoppers generously without pressuring them, contributing to an enjoyable and educational visit. Wine tastings and classes led by staff are also well-received, adding value to the customer experience. However, some negative feedback points to inconsistencies in customer service, including difficulties in locating assistance, occasional stock inaccuracies, and staff that sometimes lack passion for the products. Complaints about order errors, pricing issues, and management responsiveness have also been reported, along with a few mentions of unsatisfactory staff interactions. In conclusion, while Total Wine & More excels in its product diversity and expert staff, it faces challenges in maintaining consistent service quality across all locations. Nevertheless, its reputation as a comprehensive and affordable destination for wine and spirits shopping remains strong, making it a preferred choice for many customers seeking both variety and expertise.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Xavier Larkin
I am a frequent patron of the North Hills Total Wine location and have consistently received excellent customer service—from the initial greeting to checkout. Staff are typically courteous and professional, and I’m regularly asked to present my ID, which I fully expect and appreciate given that alcohol is being sold. However, during my most recent visit, today, June 18, 2025, I had a disappointing experience with a cashier named Cynthia. Unlike previous visits, I was not greeted when I approached the register, which was the first red flag. Cynthia did ask for my ID—which is proper protocol—but I noticed that she did not request identification from the two gentlemen ahead of me in line. When I asked about the inconsistency, she explained that one of them "comes in every day" and added, “sorry if that offended you,” while stating that it’s store policy to card anyone who appears under 30. The gentlemen that was directly in front of me, like Cynthia, were of the same race, and I couldn't help but feel that implicit, racial bias may have influenced her actions. Inconsistently applying ID checks—especially based on familiarity, appearance, or perceived age—undermines both store policy and customer trust. Regardless of how old someone looks or how often they visit, ID verification should be applied uniformly. This helps avoid situations where customers are made to feel singled out or treated unfairly especially with a passive aggressive tone in which she stated that disclaimer. I wanted to bring this to your attention with the hope that it leads to better consistency in customer service and policy enforcement. I value the North Hills location and hope to continue shopping in an environment that’s respectful, professional, and equitable to all.
Tammi Keech
I have just placed an online order and the website is super easy to use and my wine is to be delivered this afternoon. I DO NOT like that you are forced to add a tip to the order. There is no option to exclude a tip. You can add a custom tip, but it is mandatory to tip the driver. This is bad business practice. The driver will be tipped upon the service they provide. I cannot accurately decide on a tip amount prior to them actually doing their job. This is akin to demanding that I tip a server at a restaurant prior to ordering my meal…
nrgriffi6565
Had an excellent talk with Summer and they let me know what they recommended for my next visit! They have so much variety that it can be overwhelming if you don't ask about what to look for. Some stores even mark the staff recommendations! Happy I know what seltzers to look for when I come in next time!
Tomas Strouhal
This location has been here for many years, and I don’t see it going anywhere else. Great location in North Hills. Very big store, organized, clean, helpful/knowledgeable staff, and great prices! Their is someone always around for help or suggestions on your next wine or beer. They always have wine tastings, and even have an area for beer tastings. Their is also a nice walk-in cigar humidor. During holidays, this shopping center gets extremely busy, so take caution when finding a parking spot.
Nathaniel Somma
A pleasant experience and a highly informative presentation to accompany the wine tasting. Chris, who led the wine tasting, was extremely friendly, patient, and attentive. Jack, a store clerk, was the most diligent and helpful employee that I have ever called.
How to reach Total Wine & More
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Why Total Wine & More may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Total Wine & More with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable outing is all about finding the right spot that combines convenience, variety, and a welcoming atmosphere—and Total Wine & More excels in all these areas. This place is much more than just a store; it’s a destination where wine lovers, craft beer enthusiasts, and cocktail aficionados can come together to explore an unparalleled selection of beverages. With a strong rating of 4.6 from over 600 reviews, it clearly proves popular and well-regarded among its visitors. Whether you’re planning a casual meet-up, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoy discovering new favorites together, Total Wine & More offers a unique environment to spark conversations, laughter, and shared experiences. The expansive inventory means everyone in your group is sure to find something that suits their tastes, from rare wines to hard-to-find spirits and craft beers. The knowledgeable staff enhances the experience by providing expert recommendations tailored to your preferences, making the whole outing both fun and educational. Plus, the combination of in-store tastings, classes, and events transforms ordinary shopping into a social adventure perfect for groups.
What activities can you do with your group at Total Wine & More?
Total Wine & More offers a variety of activities that cater to groups looking for interactive and enjoyable ways to spend time together. A highlight is their in-store tastings, where you and your friends can sample a curated selection of wines, beers, or spirits before deciding on a purchase. These tastings are often themed—such as exploring wines from a specific region or sampling craft beers from local breweries—providing a shared experience that encourages discussion and discovery. Another excellent activity is participating in their educational classes and workshops, which focus on topics like wine pairing, cocktail mixing, and the nuances of different spirit types. These classes are designed to be both informative and engaging, making them ideal for groups who want to learn something new while having fun. For more casual meet-ups, the store’s large and well-organized layout makes browsing a leisurely group activity, as you can explore a vast range of products around themes you care about—such as organic wines, rare whiskies, or seasonal beers. Finally, many locations host special events like holiday tasting parties or release celebrations, offering a festive atmosphere where friends can enjoy together.
Why is Total Wine & More perfect for group meetups?
Total Wine & More stands out as an ideal spot for group meetups because it offers a welcoming and spacious environment that balances busy social interaction with the relaxed vibe of a specialty store. Unlike crowded bars or noisy restaurants, it provides a calm and tailored setting where groups can focus on their shared passion for beverages without distractions. The store’s size and layout allow groups to spread out comfortably while still staying connected, which is perfect for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations. The staff’s expertise ensures that no one in your party feels lost or overwhelmed by the vast selection; they can help tailor recommendations so everyone feels included, regardless of their level of beverage knowledge. The combination of physical stores with options like online ordering, curbside pickup, and home delivery also adds flexibility for groups planning ahead or looking to extend their experience beyond the meetup itself. This makes it convenient to stock up on everyone’s favorites, further enhancing the feeling of a well-coordinated social event. Additionally, many locations offer wine accessories, glassware, and gift items, enabling your group to pick up everything needed for a perfect gathering in one place.
What makes the beverage selection at Total Wine & More exceptional for groups?
The sheer variety and depth of the beverage offerings at Total Wine & More make it exceptionally suited for groups with diverse tastes. Their selection spans tens of thousands of products, covering every category from domestic and international wines, craft beers from small and large breweries, to a wide range of spirits including rare and limited-edition bottles. This diversity is key when bringing together friends or family with varying preferences—some may seek robust reds or crisp whites, others may be beer enthusiasts eager to explore IPAs or stouts, and some may prefer premium vodkas, rums, or whiskeys for cocktails. This broad choice ensures everyone finds something appealing and new, fostering a sense of exploration and camaraderie. The store also regularly updates its inventory with seasonal and exclusive offerings, so repeat visits with your group will continually feel fresh and exciting. For wine lovers, curated collections like organic, biodynamic, or sustainable wines provide additional layers of choice aligned with personal values. Overall, the comprehensive and meticulously sourced selection invites groups to share tastings, debate favorites, and discover promising new finds together.
How does Total Wine & More support planning and convenience for group events?
Planning a group event involves many moving parts, and Total Wine & More supports this process with multiple conveniences that simplify and elevate the experience. First, the option to order online with curbside pickup, in-store pickup, or delivery (in select states) is a major plus when coordinating with friends or family. This means your group can plan ahead and secure all your beverage needs without last-minute store runs or waiting in line. The staff are also available to help with larger orders, providing guidance on quantities and pairings to suit the size and theme of your gathering. Many stores have a wine cellar or private consultation areas where groups can receive personalized attention as they browse or place orders. Furthermore, the extensive accessory and gifting options allow you to easily grab items that will enhance your event, like wine glasses, cocktail tools, and gift sets, all under one roof. The availability of deals, promotions, and loyalty programs also helps groups save budget while accessing premium products. These conveniences combine to make Total Wine & More a one-stop hub that removes stress and permits your group to focus fully on enjoying each other’s company.
What kind of special events and classes can make your meetup unforgettable?
To make your gathering even more memorable, Total Wine & More regularly hosts special events and classes designed to entertain and inform groups. These can range from guided wine tastings and beer flights led by experts to cocktail blending workshops where guests learn to craft signature drinks. Seasonal events like holiday-themed tastings or summer BBQ pairings spotlight unique selections tied to the time of year, creating a fun and festive backdrop for socializing. Some stores offer private or semi-private group sessions, which are perfect for birthdays or milestone celebrations where education blends seamlessly with entertainment. These classes often include background stories about the producers and regions, tasting techniques, and pairing suggestions, enriching the experience and giving your meetup a distinctive edge. By participating in such events, your group gains not only great drinks but also shared knowledge and memories, elevating the usual get-together to something special that can be fondly recalled for years. The combination of expert hosting, engaging content, and high-quality products ensures that your meetup is as enjoyable as it is educational.
How does the knowledgeable staff enhance your group’s experience?
One of Total Wine & More’s standout features, especially for group meetups, is the knowledgeable and friendly staff. These experts are passionate about their craft and committed to helping customers navigate the overwhelming options with ease. For a group, this means personalized attention that caters to the range of tastes and preferences in your party, from novices eager to learn basics to connoisseurs looking for rare finds. Staff members can recommend pairings, suggest new and trending products, and explain tasting notes in an accessible way that encourages group discussion and excitement. Their expertise extends to planning larger orders or coordinating tastings, which adds real value when your aim is to impress friends or create an engaging social experience. Their approachable demeanor makes asking questions easy, so your group never feels out of its depth. This service layer transforms shopping into a collaborative exploration and ensures the day is enjoyable, educational, and tailored perfectly to your meetup’s style.
Why choose Total Wine & More over other meetup venues?
Choosing Total Wine & More for your group gathering offers multifaceted benefits that many other venues simply do not match. It combines the casual freedom of browsing and tasting with the sophistication of a curated beverage selection and expert insight—all in one accessible location. Unlike standard bars or restaurants, you aren’t restricted to a fixed menu or environment; here, the experience is highly personalized and interactive, with the option to take products home or attend classes. Its open hours, often from morning until late evening, means flexibility in scheduling to suit your group’s availability. Moreover, the social and educational dimensions blend to create a more meaningful and lasting connection between friends or family through discovery and shared enjoyment. The modern, spacious stores also lend themselves to comfortable socializing without the noise or crowd stress typical of nightlife venues. Finally, as a trusted and well-reviewed business with a vast presence across many regions, Total Wine & More provides consistent quality and service, assuring groups that their gathering will be smooth, enjoyable, and memorable every time.
In summary, Total Wine & More is an exceptional destination for anyone looking to host a unique and engaging meetup with friends or family, combining vast beverage variety, interactive experiences, expert advice, and convenient services that make every gathering special and stress-free.