Hello from Canuckistan

[Mikey]

In what US state does the gov't own liquor stores? I'm not saying they don't exist but I've never heard of them. Are you talking about a duty free shop?

According to wikipedia, the 19 control or monopoly states as of 2005 are:

1. Alabama
2. Idaho (Maintains a monopoly over sales above greater than 16% ABV.)
3. Iowa (Does not operate retail outlets; maintains a monopoly over wholesaling of beverages greater than 6% ABV.)
4. Maine
5. Michigan (Does not operate retail outlets; maintains a monopoly over wholesaling of distilled spirits only.)
6. Mississippi
7. Montana
8. New Hampshire
9. North Carolina
10. Ohio
11. Oregon
12. Pennsylvania (In the process of opening retail outlets inside some supermarkets.[2]
13. Utah
14. Vermont
15. Virginia
16. Washington
17. West Virginia (Does not operate retail outlets; maintains a monopoly over wholesaling of distilled spirits only.)
18. Wyoming

 

[Carne de Perro]

Well that explains it, I've never lived in any of those states and so paid no attention. Can't say I agree with it. IMHO there are some things the gov't should stay out of. Back to your regularly scheduled programming.

 

[Denny's Evil Concoctions]

Yeah. it's amazing how you can but beer at a gas station in Washington State (and many others) yet we have to go to a liquor store or beer and wine here. Bloody stupid.

I personally think it Increases drinking and driving since one can not simply walk to the corner store to get more booze. In some towns you have to drive several kilometers/miles to get to a beer and wine.

 

[grnich]

I've been to many Beer Stores and LCBOs in the Ottawa area and have been surprised at the large selection available. I think there's one near Bank and Walkely that was particularly good.

Well if getting a pilsner from every country in Europe was my thing, I'd agree with you. But the wide selection of interesting, unique microbrews you can get in the US isn't in the same league with anything with the "traditional" brews you can get here. Take a trip south to Verment and try some Magic Hat. Great stuff!