Pursuing an American dream.

Bernie’s has always been known as the “go to” liquor store for the Midtown area of Old South Fargo. With a second store in West Fargo, we love the opportunity to embrace our neighborhoods and help to build our community. Back in the day, a case of beer, some good old Canadian whiskey, and maybe a jug of Carlo Rossi were the bread and butter of our business. Today, as wine and specialty beers have seen major growth in the market, it is our intention to stay on trend and offer as much diversity as possible in our ever-expanding selections. We have made it our mission to embrace the explosion of unique and eclectic wine and beer varieties now available in North Dakota.

After managing the Graver Hotel for many years, Bernie Ness Sr decided to pursue his vison of the American dream by starting him own liquor store. Since the business was started in a 10 ft by 60ft space on the corner of the original Southside Shopping Center on University Drive in Fargo, it has worked to change as Fargo has changed. As the Fargo Moorhead area has grown, so has Bernie’s. Now on the opposite corner of the same shopping center, the current location is eight times bigger than its original with a selection that is constantly changing and growing with the times. With Bernie Ness Jr now at the helm, and his daughter Nikki in charge of daily operations, Bernie’s Wines and Liquors is fortunate to benefit from three generations of liquor store perspectives.

Before moving back to Fargo from Denver, CO Nikki received a comprehensive education in off premise wine sales from the largest liquor wholesaler in the US, Southern Wine and Spirits before moving on to Beverage Wholesalers of Denver. This glimpse into the wholesale side of the business provided her with the valuable tools necessary for a thriving retail liquor business, along with an inside look at what it takes to negotiate the prices she wants. This experience gave her a set of skills unique from those of her father and grandfather before her. Nikki prides herself on keeping her finger on the pulse of current wine, beer, and liquor trends throughout the country and she has made it her mission to enhance and expand the Bernie’s brand.

We recognize that the liquor industry can take a toll both on individuals and the environment, so we believe that it is our responsibility to our community to conduct our business in both a responsible and environmentally sustainable way that promotes a healthier attitude towards the consumption of alcohol.