If you often spend time and money at a liquor store, whether for parties or for your own consumption, you may be looking for ways to save. Well, here's some good news: there are ways to save at the liquor store, and they don't all involve sticking with that bottom-shelf liquor favored by college students. Here are four ways to save without sacrificing your palate.

Look in the bins and carts.

In many liquor stores, you will see some carts or bins parked at the ends of a few aisles or in one corner. If you look a little closer, you'll realize that these bins are usually filled with bottles of liquor or wine that are discounted for some reason. Maybe they had to be removed from the shelf because they have an old label design. Or maybe they are seasonal items that are being phased out. Typically, though, these bottles are heavily discounted, and if you happen to find one or two that you like, you can save a pretty penny in comparison to the full shelf price.

Check for local brands.

If your liquor store has a local section, head over there. It's a great place to save. Local brands often charge less for their products in order to compete with the big-name brands with huge advertising budgets. But because the liquor tends to be made in smaller batches, it can be just as good of quality as the high-priced, top-shelf stuff from national brands.

Ask about rebates.

Many liquor companies offer mail-in rebates on their products. You just send in your receipt, a simple form, and maybe the UPC code from the liquor bottle, and the company will send you a few dollars back in the mail. Some liquor stores put signs up near the products that rebates are currently being offered on. If your local store does not do this, just ask about any active rebates. The store may simply keep the info in the back or behind the registers.

Buy smaller bottles when trying something new.

If you're buying a liquor you've never purchased before, buy a smaller 250 mL or 500 mL bottle rather than buying a whole liter. The cost will be lower, and you won't risk being stuck with a whole liter of something you don't really like.

These are just a few of the easiest, most approachable ways to save in the liquor store. If you follow these tips, you can leave with some great beverages and a few dollars still left in your pocket.

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