BUYING:
Bin 905
Usually located in Calgary’s Mission district, Bin 905 was one of the many businesses affected by the devastating floods the city experienced in June 2013. The store filled with 3 feet of floodwater http://bin905.comand mud and is currently being rebuilt. But, just like a vineyard that has a bad year, Bin 905 hasn’t let the flood stop them from bringing wines to Calgarians. Operating out of their warehouse, you can order wines online to have delivered or call ahead for pick-up. With a long list of Okanagan wines available including bottles from Van Westen, Tantalus and Mission Hill, Bin 905 has one of the greatest selections in the city.
2311 4 St. S.W. (Mission store), 7056 Farrell Rd. S.E. (Warehouse), 403-261-1600, bin905.com
Highlander Wine and Spirits
With three locations, Highlander Wine and Spirits is a staple in Calgary’s beverage scene. Known for its customer service, Highlander features a large and eclectic mix of Okanagan wines from both established names and smaller boutique properties. Their selection is ever changing so you’ll always be able to try new wines. To meet demand, Highlander will be opening a fourth location in the southeast neighbourhood of Seton soon.
Locations include North Hill Plaza, Richmond Plaza and Marda Loop. For contact information visit highlanderwine.com
Vine Arts
Co-owned and managed by one of Calgary’s top wine experts Jesse Willis, Vine Arts is unlike the majority of wine stores you come across. You won’t find a dedicated “Canada” or “Okanagan” section nor will you find wines divided by grape. Alternatively, wines at Vine Arts are categorized by descriptors like “Light and Fresh” for whites, and “Bold & Structured” for reds to help make wine approachable for newbies and make choosing a bottle simpler for the experienced. Willis and other co-owner Jeff Jamieson are happy to point out the Okanagan wines they carry. Although selection changes often, Vine Arts always stocks wines from Painted Rock, Quails’ Gate, Road 13, Joie Farm, Covert Farms and Laughing Stock.
1310, 1 St. S.W., 403-290-0700, vinearts.ca
DRINKING:
Teatro
Teatro is a leader in Calgary when it comes to upscale dining and extensive wine lists. With a cellar that holds 10,000 bottles, a list of over 900 wines, a dedicated cellar master and a sommelier, you’ll be well taken care of when choosing what to drink. The wine list features Okanagan wines available by the glass and by the bottle. And, you’ll be more than impressed with Executive Chef John Michael MacNeil’s creative menu.
200 8 Ave. S.E., 403-290-1012, teatro.ca
Vin Room
At Vin Room Mission and Vin Room West, sampling multiple wines is made easy. Over 100 wines are available in 2 oz. pours, glasses, half bottles and full bottles. Okanagan pours include vintages from Lakebreeze, Calliope, Cedar Creek and Tantalus. The tapas menu with the perennial favourite – Lobster Nachos, is delightful for sharing with friends. Or, go the classic route and create your own charcuterie board with local cheese and meat options.
Vin Room Mission – 2310 4th St. S.W., 403-457-5522; Vin Room West – 8561 8A Ave. S.W., 587-353-8812, vinroom.com
Winebar Kensington
Chef and owner Cam Dobranski has made Winebar Kensington a go-to foodie destination in Calgary. The restaurant has been revamped after a month-long stint this fall by American chef Brandon Baltzley. Winebar features many Okanagan wines from including bottles from Clos du Soleil, Tinhorn Creek, Summerhill Estates and Pentage vineyards.
1131 Kensington Rd. N.W., 403-457-1144
winebarkensington.com
By Calgary-based writer Laura Lushington