Photo by Brian Lancione

By Rochelle Karina

When it comes to liquor stores, Severna Park has a few to choose from. Among them is Harbour Spirits on Benfield Road. Current owner Catherine MacMurray purchased the existing store last August, but she’s no stranger to the business. Her husband Don has been running Port Tack Wine and Spirits for over 30 years.

Don runs Port Tack but helps support his wife’s new business endeavor. “We have a long history in this industry,” he explained. “The opportunity to open a second store came up, and we thought we’d like to take on the challenge.”

MacMurray points out that the store is currently undergoing some remodeling and asks customers to pardon the dust while the renovations progress. Plans are in place to upgrade the wine department, expand the spirits and beer selections, and create more display room on the floor. “We’re going to make some changes,” MacMurray explains.

The couple opted to open a second store in the Severna Park area because of the community. “It’s the same demographic,” MacMurray continues. “The people in this area are well educated, up and coming, interested in good schools and good living.”

Both MacMurrays are local products. Catherine attended the University of Maryland and grew up in Baltimore. Don’s family is Severna Park through and through; he attended Severna Park Elementary and graduated from Severna Park High.

MacMurray feels it’s important that customers can come intothe store not just to buy, but also to try and to learn. “There are people in the shop who can help with the selection of wine, beer, or liquor,” he explains. “Shop manager Kerry Drapalski is very knowledgeable on wines.” The shop hosts occasional wine or beer tastings on Friday and Saturday nights and they have just started offering spirits tastings as well.

As for MacMurray, his favorite wine suggestions would be a Fess Parker Syrah for red and a Dry Creek Sauvignon Blanc for white lovers.

The company website, www.harbourspirits.com, is full of their latest specials and news. Their weekly features clearly list the latest beer and wine specials. Contact the shop at 410-544-6377, or stop into their Benfield Road location and see it for yourself. Just don’t mind the dust; the results are sure to be worth it!