The General Wine Company, Liphook and Midhurst

Fantastic wine merchant with shops in Liphook and Midhurst. The Hipster rarely buys wine elsewhere. His online wine club subscriptions have withered and died and Waitrose and Sainsbury's now exist for emergency purchases only. 

Alan Snudden's enterprise offers a fantastic selection of Old and New World wines right across the price spectrum, sold with real expertise (ask him about Corsican wines if you get the chance). The shops aren't fussy or fancy, but always classy, the advice is equally friendly and informative whether you spend £4.99 or £499 on a bottle.  Good range of spirits, cigars and beers too. The GWC Shipper's Club offers worthwhile perks and discounts and information about tastings and dinners and the annual Wine Fair in Liphook's Millenium Hall is absolutely not to be missed. 

The General Wine Company is a real treasure, and there can be no excuse for buying at supermarkets or online - GWC offers a better range, keen keen prices and a stack more engagement and enjoyment.  Main branch: 25, Station Road, Liphook. 01428 727744. Junior branch, High Street, Midhurst (just as good but half the size and stock).