7 speciality wine stores to check out in Calgary

Nov 25 2016, 8:07 am

If you’re looking for an alternative to the large corporate liquor store with the same tired selection, you’re in luck. Calgary has many locally-owned wine boutiques specializing in great customer service, knowledgeable staff, and unique shopping experiences.

Here are seven wine shops to check out in Calgary.

The Cellar Wine Store

This boutique prides itself on good wines at reasonable prices. The décor is what one would imagine an old European winery to feel like – old brick, warm lighting, and an inviting wine aroma. In addition to a large assortment of wine they also have an excellent selection of bubbly.

Address: 137 8th Avenue SW

Vine Arts Wine & Spirits

Vine Arts provides an unpretentious, customer-centric environment with a twist on the regular wine store; instead of their selection being organized by country, region or varietal, you can shop by style of wine. Are you into bold wines? How about mellow? Shop by your style. They’ve just opened a new location on 17th Avenue, and we all know we need more wine on that street.

Address: 1310 1st Street SW
Address: 932 17th Avenue SW

Bin 905

Bin 905 is a long-time staple in Mission. After surviving the flood of 2013 the store was remodelled with inspiration from a high-end London wine boutique, and we promise it won’t disappoint. This shop is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Resort group, giving them access to CRMR’s famed Wine Director Brad Royale (who is the buyer for Bin 905!).

Address: 2311 4th Street SW

Metrovino

Most wine stores are required to buy their supply from a local agent, however Metrovino has a grandfathered importing license – meaning they can import their own wines, without an agent. They often have a collection of interesting, off-the-beaten-path wines because of this privilege. Their staff is very friendly and knowledgeable to make for a great experience when looking for that special bottle.

Address: 722 11th Avenue SW

Oak & Vine

Oak & Vine offers a wide variety of hand-picked international wines, organized by colour and taste. Aside from the vino they are Calgary’s destination for craft beer with more than 700 imported and craft beer options. Known for their Mount Pleasant location, they’ve recently opened shop in Inglewood as well.

Address: 1139 9th Avenue SE
Address: 1030 16th Avenue NW

Kensington Wine Market

Kensington Wine Market is an award-winning store and an important location in Kensington for almost 25 years. Their staff is well-informed and welcoming for any wine buyer. They also offer an extensive online retail experience. As a bonus, the owner of KWM belongs to an international society known as the Keeper of the Quaich – an exclusive club for scotch and whisky experts. As you can probably guess, KWM is an excellent destination for a perfect bottle of scotch.

Address: 1257 Kensington Road NW

Willow Park Wines & Spirits

Willow Park is known as the most comprehensive private wine store in Calgary. With a massive assortment of wines, spirits and beer, it often rivals the larger chain stores. They believe in giving back to the community, and host an annual charity wine auction for 23 years running.

Address: 10801 Bonaventure Drive SE

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