By MOLLY DAVIDSON / Staff Writer

MT LAUREL—Whether you’re a wine aficionado or just enjoy a glass every now and then with dinner, Mt Laurel’s Willow and Wine Distinctive Gift Baskets is the place for you.

The family-owned business specializes in small batch, boutique wines sold in a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere.

“We pick things that people aren’t going to find in every grocery store,” co-owner Sharon Worcester said. “(Our wines) are high quality but good value.”

Although the shop is new, Worcester and her husband are not entirely new to the wine business. The two owned a wine shop in The Village at Lee Branch for two years.

Worcester doesn’t consider herself a wine expert. Her venture into the industry started with an interest in wine.

“It’s just something I find really fascinating. You’re always learning,” Worcester said. “I’m not a wine expert, I’m a wine fan.”

Worcester created her shop to be relaxed and comfortable, a place where someone can stop in and have a glass of wine with a friend or drop by for a wine tasting and live music on Friday.

Willow and Wine is also a place for people to learn about and try new wine.

“We definitely aren’t wine snobs,” Worcester said with a laugh. “To me every person that walks in the door is a little gift, and I want to share with them.”

Wine isn’t the only thing sold at shop, customers can also purchase one of Worcester’s hand-picked gift baskets or have one customized.

Baskets can be made for any occasion, and no two baskets are quite the same, Worcester said.

“To me (arranging baskets) is a creative outlet,” Worcester said. “They’re all a little different.”

Worcester also plans to expand Willow and Wine’s inventory, adding wine accessories, glassware, gourmet food items and more to the gift basket and wine selection. The space above the shop, located at 13 Olmsted Street, is also available to use as event space.

Willow and Wine is open Mondays-Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Fridays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wine tastings are held each Friday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.