A young businessman is aiming to spread some Christmas cheer with a new liquor store.

Scott DeSilva is following in a family tradition as his father Raymond owns Front Street Wine & Liquors in Hamilton.

“I watched my dad — he has been an entrepreneur since I was a young boy, although this a completely different entity,” said Mr DeSilva.

He was speaking in the light, bright and modern surroundings of Scotty’s, his new business on the top floor of the Bermudiana Arcade in Queen Street.

Mr DeSilva, 31, and girlfriend Claire Simons are planning a series of events in the run-up to the festive season, including a wine-tasting on Friday and a series of special offers.

Ms Simons said: “People are free to come by, try some wine and browse — it’s a good way to get people in to check us out.”

The fresh decor is complimented by a wide array of wines, spirits and beers, selected for maximum market appeal and to suit every budget.

Ms Simons said the store was especially designed to get away from the dark interiors of many liquor stores and to present a welcoming environment, while the location offers something convenient for the business district off Front Street.

She said that, whereas there are a selection of liquor outlets on Front Street, there was nothing further up Queen street. She added: “We were looking for something up this end of town and this was up for grabs. It’s very bright and people, especially women, will feel comfortable in here. That’s something we were aiming for.”

Mr DeSilva said: “I’m aiming for all markets — I’m pretty good at the younger market because I know the kinds of things I look for.”

He highlighted Moonshine, a range of clear whiskies, some flavoured, which come in the glass jars favoured by illegal distillers in the US, and Agwa, a liquor made from coconuts and herbs, as new tastes.

“I believe younger people are being very experimental — they are trying things like Moonshine.”

The store also carries around 230 different wines, with prices ranging from $10 to around $70.

“It’s a fair amount — there is something for everyone on the shelves.”

Mr DeSilva added that he aimed to build on his already impressive collection of Scotch whiskies and rums — which features high-end single malts and the most expensive bottle in the shop, El Dorado 21-year-old rum from Guyana which sells at $100 a bottle.

But he said he had learned some valuable lessons from his father when it came to running a business.

“The big one was budget myself well and make sure I keep a good eye on that. He told me not to overextend, have a bit of patience and let the business grow.

“That and work hard — he’s always told me that.”

The store can be followed on Facebook and Instagram at Scotty’s wines and spirits, which also feature the pre-Christmas specials.

The store is open between 10am and 7pm from Monday to Saturday. The wine-tasting event is on Friday between 4.30pm and 6.30pm.