By Amanda Boston
Thirteen years ago, Ajay Jambhekar of Valrico, traded in his career as an accountant in Corporate America for a more personal and small-town setting when he launched his store AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor. His previous 25 years of business experience serves him well as it is evident through his booming business. Robert Regester, a Valrico resident and patron, said, “Ajay is a great guy who knows his customers,” and he attributed relationship building to Jambhekar’s entrepreneurial success.
With Christmas and New Year’s Eve around the corner, Jambhekar is offering free personalized engraving on select whiskey bottles purchased in store ranging in price from $31 to $74. The annual engraving event will happen on Wednesday, December 14 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Additionally, you may pre-order the engraving, provided that the product has been purchased beforehand. With regard to engraving, there are no restrictions on the amount of letters or number of bottles.
Along with the opportunity to seize a truly unique hostess or host gift, AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor endorses quality over quantity. Jambhekar appreciates and studies the process of making alcohol, which is the key component in separating the good from the great. He explained, “The brand name is not important. What is important is how it is made, and how it tastes.”
An advocate of small businesses alike, Jambhekar educates his clientele on the various alcohol products available that are not as well marketed, yet just as exceptional and oftentimes more affordable. His highest objective is to provide his customers a product suitable for their palate at reasonable prices. Fittingly, Jambhekar offers his customers the ongoing opportunity to sample assorted liquor products, and on occasion, he showcases new wine with weekend wine-tasting events.
AJ’s Fine Wine & Liquor also houses a walk-in humidor with cigars, craft beers, gluten free beers, organic beers, and a self-serve bar. The store is located at 3443 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico, in the Shoppes of Lithia Plaza, adjacent to the Publix. For information on upcoming events, call 654-6488 or visit the store’s Facebook Page.
