Wine in Victoria, British Columbia
Bringing BC Vineyards to Downtown Victoria
On the most popular Victoria shopping street, the Artisan Wine Shop,1007 Government Street, has an inviting tasting bar with three complimentary wines to taste every day of the week. Other wines, including a flight of ice wines, are also available to taste for a small fee which is redeemable with purchases. Saddle up to the bar or have a seat in a cushy chair in front of the fire. Tasters can also shop while they sip. The staff can create gift baskets for any budget including a wide array of accessories, books and food items all available at the shop. Artisan also has some of the best prices on Riedel glassware in Victoria. Wine always tastes better in crystal! Artisan Wine Shop also has a good variety of wine related books that make perfect gifts for the wine enthusiasts.
Just two blocks up, The Wine Barrel, 644 Broughton Street, is another great spot for gifts and stocking stuffers. From fancy corkscrews to funky wine racks, The Wine Barrel has a huge selection of gifts and accessories. The Wine Barrel has the largest selection in Victoria of British Columbia Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA) wines. VQA is an Appellation of Origin system showing that wines are produced from BC grapes meeting specific regulations and standards as approved by a panel of experts. Vintners or wineries optionally submit their wines for approval in order to receive the VQA medallion and can be sold through the VQA stores like The Wine Barrel. Many Okanagan wineries take part in the VQA program and The Wine Barrel has an excellent selection of these wines. Shoppers can leave their e-mail address to receive an invitation to their Friday afternoon tastings with a feature winery and local restaurant tastings.
Around the corner at 919 Douglas Street, The Strath Ale Wine and Spirit Merchantsobviously carry more than just wine. They also have a great selection of spirits and gift items plus many Vancouver Island wines on their shelves.
Spinnakers Spirit and Wine Merchants now have two stores. One is at 130-176 Wilson Street just over the blue, Johnson Street Bridge. The newest store is in James Bay Square, 425 Simcoe Street beside their Sips tasting bar (opening fall 2008). Spinnakers is the biggest supporter of local, island wines and the best place to purchase many Vancouver Island vintages. Try the Marchel Foch or Ortega from Starling Lane Winery on the Saanich Peninsula. The red and white are sure to impress!
All of these wine shops are located in the central shopping area of downtown Victoria or within walking distance from downtown. Whether a local or visitor, check out the vino scene in Victoria.
Artisan Wine Shop
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