Worcester's Only Wine Shop Closing Over Lease Trouble: Owners

WORCESTER, MA — Worcester's only standalone wine shop will close at the end of July, with the owners citing trouble renewing a lease at the Worcester Public Market.

Rachel and Olivia Scanlon opened Canal District Wines in late 2021. The Scanlons had to fight for their liquor license, with owners from nearby Kelley Square Liquors and McGovern's Package Store asking the city not to allow the business to open.

"Regrettably, we were unable to reach mutually agreeable terms for the renewal of our lease, which ends in August. Our last day open to the public will be Sunday, July 28. We’d like to thank our store staff past and present, Worcester Public Market staff, distributors, and other partners for their work and support," the owners said in a statement.

"Above all, we want to thank our terrific patrons. It’s been a blast learning about wine alongside you. We’re grateful for your business, and for all the memories created at the tasting tables."

The store initially opened on the Green Street side of the Worcester Public Market, but then moved to the Water Street side with its own storefront.

The store was the first to carry only wine after the Wine Vine along Highland Street closed its doors in 2020. The owners curated the wine selection, rotating bottles each week, and offered brands and styles not typically available at other local liquor stores.