Welcome to The Wine Cellar
In March 1973 Robert W. Clemens and John V. McCarthy formed Mac Bo 1 Inc. DBA Wine Cellar with the idea of building a Plaza and opening a Fine Wine and Beer Shop on Youngstown’s Westside. They also applied to The Department of Liquor Control for a lease for a State Liquor Store to replace the one closed in the Mahoning Plaza 2 years previously.
In October of 1973 the State of Ohio issued a lease to Mac Bo 1 Inc. for space in the newly built plaza. The first self-service liquor store in Mahoning County and the Wine Cellar opened for business at the end of the month.
Thru the years all of the Clemens children (Bob, Jim, Mariann) Grand children (Jill, & Matt Clemens) and the McCarthy Boys (Johnny, Mark, Patrick, and future son in law Don Gibson) spent time working in the Wine Cellar during High School and College days. All have moved on to other careers except Bob Clemens who operates the store to this day.
In December of 1974 The Wine Cellar became one of the first full service Ohio Lottery Agency’s in Mahoning County.
In 1983 Jack McCarthy sold his interest in the business to Robert and Anna Grace Clemens to pursue other business interests.
October of 1995 the State of Ohio Department of Liquor issued a contract to Mac Bo 1 to operate the first Ohio Liquor Agency in the City Of Youngstown. At that time Karen Loudon joined or staff to manage the liquor side of our business. Karen had 25 years of experience with the Ohio Department of Liquor control as a store manager.
Unfortunately in September of 1997 Robert passed away. His tradition of friendly, courteous, and knowledgeable service continues with his wife of 49 years Anna Grace and son Bob and all the Wine Cellar staff.
On February 1, 2006 the Wine Cellar began Sunday sales of Spirituous Liquor, beer and wine. This became possible because of the generosity of the voters in our precinct. For this we thank you all.
The Family decided the outside of the building needed a new look. On February 1 2007 with the help of a grant from The City of Youngstown a new façade, lighting, signage and landscaping began. The project ended in mid April. It was decided at that point the inside needed a facelift also. Walls were removed, new lighting installed, carpet removed and replaced with porcelain tile, new checkout counters, and a new walk in cooler. Floor space was expanded to allow us to stock more beer, wine, and liquor to better serve our customers.
During the past 4 months we started a new Martini tasting program. We offer 3 different Martini’s every week for a nominal fee of $1.00.We show you how to make the drink and provide a recipe card listing all the ingredients and garnishes. This summer we plan to expand on that to include beer, wine, and summertime cocktails.
Some of our proudest moments are when customers come back and tell us we helped them plan their wedding and ask to help with a child's wedding. This is a service we provide for free. Our staff has over 75 years combined experience in helping you pick the proper amounts and products for your event no matter what your budget. Delivery is free with the purchase of beer, wine, and liquor.
We have been in business 35 years and still going strong.
To our customers, thank you for all the years of patronage.
The future, we hope to see you soon.
Bob and Ann Clemens and the Wine Cellar staff Gene, Karen, Larry, Frank R, Frank C, Tommy, and April.
