Celebrating 90 Years of Haskell’s: A Journey Through History and Community Connections

This year, Haskell’s Wine & Spirits is raising a glass to 90 years of serving the Twin Cities and beyond! From our humble beginnings on 7th Street in downtown Minneapolis to becoming a beloved local institution, we’re celebrating the major milestones that shaped our journey and the strong ties we’ve built with the community along the way.

The Beginning of Haskell’s Legacy

It all started in 1934, right after the end of Prohibition, when Fritzi Haskell and her husband opened their first store in downtown Minneapolis. Fritzi, a pioneer in Minnesota’s wine scene, and her husband ‘Bootlegger Benny’ played a significant role in establishing Haskell’s reputation for quality and sophistication. During Prohibition, Benny was known for his resourcefulness in the bootlegging business, and after the nationwide ban on alcohol was lifted, the Haskells turned their passion into a legitimate enterprise.

Fritzi’s infatuation with wine and her appreciation for French culture became the driving force behind Haskell’s unique selection. She was determined to bring good French wine to the region, setting a high standard that still defines the Haskell’s brand today. The legacy Fritzi and Benny began in those early days has carried through the decades, establishing Haskell’s as a trusted source for fine wines and spirits. 

Jack Farrell Takes the Helm

In 1970, Jack Farrell entered the picture, becoming the new owner of Haskell’s. Jack continued to honor Fritzi's commitment to quality and tradition, including Haskell’s involvement in the prestigious Hospices de Beaune wine auction in France. The Farrell family makes the flight overseas each year to attend this auction, where they select exceptional wines to bring back to Minnesota, continuing Fritzi’s legacy of introducing fine French wines to the land of 10,000 lakes.

Jack’s vision was clear: Haskell’s should be more than just a store—it should be a place where people feel welcomed, informed, and part of something special. With the spirits of Fritzi and Benny by his side, Jack continued expanding Haskell’s reach beyond Minneapolis and growing its footprint across Minnesota and beyond. 

Expansion and Growth

Haskell’s grew significantly in the 1970s and 1980s. 

• By 1975, we expanded to St. Paul, then followed with new locations in Minnetonka (1976) and Excelsior (1977).
• In 1979, we opened a store in Rochester, although it closed in 1983.
• In the 1990s, we expanded into Bloomington (1994) and even ventured to sunnier pastures with a store in Naples, Florida, in 1999, which operated until 2011. 
• The early 2000s continued this trajectory with new locations in Woodbury (2001), White Bear Lake (2004), and Plymouth, which started as a franchise.

Each new location was an opportunity to foster a sense of community and create a welcoming atmosphere, where everyone from wine connoisseurs to curious newcomers could find the wine or spirit they needed. 

In addition to serving as a local wine and spirits hub, Haskell's is committed to giving back to the community through various charitable initiatives. One of our standout events is the annual Bourbon Charity Auction, where enthusiasts gather to bid on rare and collectible bourbons, with all proceeds benefiting local nonprofits. By turning a love for bourbon into a force for good, we continue to strengthen our ties with the community, further embedding Haskell’s into the fabric of Minnesota’s philanthropic spirit.

Haskell’s Today: A Proud Part of Minnesota

Today, Haskell’s operates ten corporate stores, three franchises, and two delis, employing over 140 dedicated team members who share a passion for bringing the best wines, spirits, and more to our customers. We’re not just a retailer; we’re a trusted resource and a staple in the lives of Minnesotans.

Whether it’s hosting charitable auctions, tasting events, booze cruises or simply being the friendly face that helps you find the perfect bottle, Haskell’s is all about community. We wouldn’t be here without you, our loyal customers, and the incredible Minnesota communities we are honored to serve.

So, raise a glass with us, and thank you for being part of the Haskell’s family. Here’s to the next 90 years!