Tired of 20-plus years in the corporate world, working as director of financial planning and analysis, Bob Vigilante turned to a new venture this past fall. In September, the Yorktown Heights, N.Y., resident and his wife, Cary, took ownership of Taunton Wine & Liquor, at 147 Mt Pleasant Road.

“It was just time to do something else. We have friends in this business in New York, and I’ve always liked wines, so I thought, ‘Why not?’ Taunton Wine & Liquor has been an established business for 23 years. I liked that it has a foundation in the clientele,” Mr Vigilante said.

Longtime customers still find many familiar faces among the employees, he said. “The only new faces, really, are my family,” Mr Vigilante said. The Vigilantes and staff stress friendly, impeccable service, he said. It is not uncommon for employees to carry out customers’ purchases to their cars. Taunton Wine & Liquor staff is happy to recommend food and wine pairings, and will not hesitate to look up special requests. When it is possible, Taunton Wine & Liquor will even order a single bottle for a customer. “You should have a great experience when you come in here. Expect smiles and good conversation,” he stressed.

The store is smaller than many newer liquor stores, but that is a positive quality, Mr Vigilante said. “One the unique things about our store is the feel. It’s not a warehouse. I want people to come in here and not feel overwhelmed,” he said.

Taunton Wine & Liquor works to bring in the best quality products, at the most reasonable price, from wines to craft and local beers to some of the more hard-to-find liquors. They have placed a focus on the selection of wines from around the world, and are pleased to offer regional wines that are sometimes overlooked. “I love when you find a nice little gem from a small winery,” said Mr Vigilante. Staff-generated tasting notes on many wines are posted by selections.

Taunton Wine & Liquor offers wine tastings every Saturday, from noon to 5 pm, with sparkling wines featured for the New Year holiday. In warmer weather, look for beer tastings, as well.

Taunton Wine & Liquor, 147 Mt Pleasant Road, Newtown, is open Monday through Thursday, 10 am to 8 pm; Saturday, 9:30 am to 8 pm; and on Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm. Call 203426-6099 for more information, or visit their website.