by Cheryl Jerabek
Local Liquor has been a staple in Norwood for over 25 years, providing residents and visitors alike with a well-stocked selection of spirits, wines, and beers. Originally opened by Joanne Roudebush in 1997, the store quickly became a central hub for the community, not only offering a variety of libations but also supporting local events such as the San Miguel Basin Rodeo. Over the years, Roudebush moved the store to its current location at 1565 Grand Avenue, where it continued to thrive and serve the needs of the Norwood community.
In December 2022, Laurel Henderson took the reins of Local Liquor, uncorking in a new era for the beloved store.
“After teaching high school English and middle school Spanish for 11 years in Ecuador, Aspen and Telluride, I was looking for a career change and I was tired of commuting to Telluride,” Laurel stated. “Purchasing the store has been a wonderful shift. I’m enjoying entrepreneurship, being a part of our local community and working for myself.”
Laurel’s passion for fine dining and wines, developed over 20 years of part-time work in the restaurant industry, made the transition to running a liquor store a natural fit. Local Liquor has three employees in addition to Laurel and her husband.
Since taking over, Laurel has embraced the role of entrepreneur and has been focused on enhancing the store’s offerings and deepening its connection to the Norwood community. She has expanded the wine selection, ensuring there is something for every palate, and has introduced monthly wine tastings.
“Much to my delight, the monthly tastings are well-attended and it seems there is communal interest in tasting and learning about the wines,” Laurel commented.
Laurel is committed to maintaining the store’s strong community ties, continuing the tradition of supporting local programs and events.
“Local Liquor not only provides libations and facilitates fun, we also contribute to our local 4-H program, the San Miguel Basin Rodeo and Lone Cone Legacy Trust to name a few,” Laurel stated. “Given my history in education, it’s in my nature to want to give back to the community and I look forward to finding new ways to contribute to Norwood in the future.”
Looking ahead, Laurel has ambitious plans for Local Liquor. She aims to create a well-rounded store that caters to all customers, including those seeking non-alcoholic options. Her dedication to learning and improvement is evident in her pursuit of sommelier certification, which will enable her to offer even more knowledgeable advice to her customers. While Laurel is no stranger to the challenges that come along with operating a small business in a tiny town, she remains optimistic and focused on providing the personalized service that distinguishes Local Liquor.
Local Liquor’s future is bright under Laurel’s leadership, as she blends her love for learning, commitment to community, and passion for wines to continue the legacy of this cherished Norwood business.
“These past two years have flown by,” Laurel shared. “Thank you to Joanne Roudebush, who sold me the store, and to the community for supporting it!”
“I love this new chapter of my life and serving our community,” she added.