Package Stores on Nantucket

Nantucket has several well-stocked liquor stores offering wine, beer, and spirits. Here are your best options for stocking up.

  • 1

    Hatch's Package Store

    129 Orange Street

    The go-to liquor store for many island residents and visitors alike. Hatch's offers an excellent selection of wines, craft beers, and premium spirits. The staff is knowledgeable and can help you find the perfect bottle for any occasion. They carry a comprehensive selection of local Nantucket products including Cisco beers, Triple Eight spirits, and Nantucket Vineyard wines. Convenient location near downtown with ample parking.

  • 2

    Murray's Liquors

    24 Main Street

    Located right on Main Street, Murray's is the most convenient option if you're walking around downtown. They stock a solid selection of wines and beers, including local favorites. While the store is smaller than some alternatives, the downtown location makes it easy to grab what you need while exploring town. Helpful staff can make recommendations based on your preferences.

  • 3

    Cisco Brewers

    5 Bartlett Farm Road

    For the freshest local products, head straight to the source. Cisco Brewers is home to the island's beloved brewery, Triple Eight Distillery, and Nantucket Vineyard - all in one location. Purchase beer, wine, and spirits directly from where they're made. The outdoor campus is a destination in itself, with live music, food trucks, and a festive atmosphere during summer. Pick up cases to stock your rental or bottles to bring home as gifts.

Local Products to Try

Nantucket produces its own exceptional craft beverages. These local products make for memorable vacation drinking and excellent souvenirs.

Cisco Beers

The island's craft brewery has been producing beloved beers since 1995. Must-try options include:

  • Whale's Tale Pale Ale: The flagship brew - a crisp, balanced pale ale perfect for beach days
  • Grey Lady: A refreshing wheat ale with subtle citrus notes
  • Sankaty Light: A lighter option for those looking for easy-drinking refreshment
  • Summer of Lager: A seasonal favorite that captures the essence of Nantucket summer
  • Indie Pale Ale: A hoppy IPA for craft beer enthusiasts

Triple Eight Spirits

Nantucket's distillery produces award-winning spirits using local ingredients:

  • Triple Eight Vodka: Smooth, clean vodka made from organic corn - their signature spirit
  • Hurricane Rum: A locally-made rum perfect for island cocktails
  • Nor'Easter Bourbon: A craft bourbon with New England character
  • Notch Single Malt Whisky: Award-winning single malt aged on the island
  • Bluecoat Gin: Botanical gin with a distinct flavor profile

Nantucket Vineyard Wines

Yes, Nantucket has its own winery! The maritime climate creates unique growing conditions:

  • Hurricane White: A crisp, refreshing white blend ideal for seafood
  • Summer Moire: A light rose perfect for sunset sipping
  • Sailor's Delight: A fruit-forward red that pairs well with grilled meats

Beer vs Wine vs Spirits Selection

Best Beer Selection

For the widest selection of craft beers beyond local options, Hatch's Package Store offers the most variety. They stock IPAs, stouts, lagers, and seasonal releases from craft breweries across New England and beyond. For purely local beer, buying directly at Cisco Brewers ensures freshness and often includes seasonal releases not widely distributed.

Best Wine Selection

Hatch's Package Store has the most extensive wine selection on the island, ranging from everyday bottles to premium vintages. The staff can help you find wines to pair with your dinner plans. For a more curated selection with personalized recommendations, Murray's downtown location offers quality picks in a convenient setting.

Best Spirits Selection

Both Hatch's and Murray's carry full selections of major spirits brands along with craft options. For Triple Eight products, you'll find the complete lineup at all stores, but the distillery tasting room at Cisco Brewers offers the experience of sampling before you buy and occasionally has limited-edition releases.

Sunday Sales Rules

Massachusetts blue laws regulate alcohol sales, and there are important restrictions to know about on Sundays:

  • No sales before noon: Package stores cannot sell alcohol before 12:00 PM on Sundays
  • Plan ahead: If you need drinks for Sunday brunch or a morning beach picnic, buy them the day before
  • Stores close earlier: Some stores have reduced Sunday hours, often closing by 6 PM
  • Holidays: Certain holidays may have additional restrictions - check ahead on major holiday weekends

These laws apply to all retail alcohol sales in Massachusetts. Restaurants and bars can serve alcohol earlier on Sundays, typically starting at 10 or 11 AM for brunch service.

Insider Tips for Wine & Beer Shopping

  • Local products make great souvenirs: Bottles of Triple Eight Vodka or cases of Cisco beer are popular gifts to bring home. The unique packaging and Nantucket branding make them conversation starters.
  • Prices are higher than mainland: Expect to pay 10-20% more than you would at home. Everything on the island costs more due to shipping, and alcohol is no exception.
  • Stock up early in your trip: Don't wait until Saturday afternoon to buy supplies for the week. Lines can be long, and popular items may sell out during peak season.
  • Bring a cooler: If you're heading to the beach or on a picnic, ice and coolers are available at package stores and grocery stores.
  • Check rental policies: Some vacation rentals prohibit alcohol or have specific rules. Check your rental agreement before stocking up.
  • Visit Cisco Brewers: Even if you're not a big drinker, the campus is worth a visit for the atmosphere, live music, and food trucks.