Something for Everyone at Schnucks Des Peres

Schnucks in Des Peres, Missouri is truly a sight to behold.  Although the cooking school wasn't in session the large format classroom showcases state of the art equipment and seating for over 30.  The school is located on the mezzanine level adjacent to cafe seating and lounge complete with free Wi-Fi and HDTV tuned to the Food network of course. 

The walk-in "Wine and Cheese" room is best described as an enclosed temperature controlled pod on the floor plan.  Automatic doors welcome you, as the slight smell of delicious cheese and eye catching displays of Wine pairings entice you to browse.  I discovered a drunken goat cheese that looked tempting.  A friendly staff person pops in to see if I need assistance.  I ask if they had smaller wedges, she smiled, and asked how much I would like, she kindly cut and wrapped the piece and I was on my way to the wine and spirit section.

The curved shape of the shelving and aisles lend well to carts, browsers and showing off the vast product offering.  Where should I begin?  The Missouri wine section of course!  They showcased a nice selection in the "regional" wines display.  I saw a few new labels and smiled at the competitive price points of the wines.

Continuing my beverage education I combed the racks of the walk in beer cooler to notice a trend in camouflage wrapped beer cans, hunting really does have it's season, right next to the nutcracker holiday beer selections.  Schlfley's Pumpkin Ale was no where to be found, and I was disappointed that Stag wasn't available in the single 24 oz. section.  But honestly I think they may have been the only two beers missing.

Needing to warm up, I left the cooler and made my way to the spirits.  The vodka and bourbon sections were overwhelming, who knew there were so many choices.  With time slipping away, I wrapped up my visit.  It took nearly an hour for my Schnucks field trip, and I saw such a small portion of the store.

The next time you find yourself in their neighborhood stop in and experience it for yourself.  I'd recommend you begin with a cup of coffee from the in-store Kaldi's coffee bar.  Don't worry, they're open 24 hours, they'll be waiting!