While I am a beer enthusiast, and I enjoy a good whiskey periodically, I rarely drink liqueur.  And until 20 minutes ago, I had never actually bought a bottle.  So, what made me break down, and why do I feel great about doing so?  At the risk of shamelessly plugging what I love about Abe’s Market, it comes down to one thing – making a personal connection to the real person behind the products.

I was strolling through a local farmers market and, while munching on some fresh roasted almonds I had just bought, I stopped to chat with a liqueur maker and taste some of his fruit and chocolate concoctions.  While sipping samples, we discussed where he makes his product and a bit about how.  His passion for his craft was tangible.  I walked away a bit lighter in the wallet but with one bottle each of blueberry, white chocolate and dark chocolate liqueur.  I’ll enjoy sipping my new purchases, and I may even tell a few friends about the liqueur man at the farmers market.