Highly anticipated California wine release happening at BC Liquor Stores

California wines are among the most coveted in the world.

There’s something about the Golden State and it’s long, coastal geography that creates a varying climate that is ideal for growing a multitude of different grapes. The outcome is internationally revered wines that are as distinct as they are diverse.

Soon, with the upcoming release of BC Liquor Stores’ new collection of California wines, you won’t have to travel south to discover some of the most sought-after flavours of this region.

The diverse selection includes iconic collectables and blends from different regions and will be available at select BC Liquor Stores locations in limited quantities.

For safety reasons, BCL has shifted to an online pre-order request system for those eager to secure certain labels. Pre-order becomes available starting Thursday, August 20 until Sunday, August 23, so customers can order their favourites in advance. The full release will be made available as of September 12, at which point any remaining wines will be up for purchase.

If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a look at some of the most noteworthy bottles on offer that are sure to get you California dreaming.

Opus One 2016

This highly drinkable vino has a complex and herby aroma of blackcurrants, blueberries, basil, and bay leaf. It’s full-bodied and refined, with a bold finish. A one-of-a-kind Opus One collection of eight vintages will also be available in multiple formats for you to discover your most-loved.

Flight Screaming Eagle Napa Valley 2016

Part of the allure of this Oakville wine is its scarcity due to the extremely small batches in which it’s created — especially their Merlot variety. The black olive, hazelnut, brown sugar, and blackberry character is what makes it most discernible as a Merlot. The flavours need a few years to meld and marinate together for a truly refined experience.

Merlot Duckhorn Three Palms Napa Valley 2016 

Hints of fruit, like plums and blueberries, will flood your sense of smell on this one — with subtle undertones of fresh herbs and green olives. This full-bodied wine is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Malbec that make for a lingering finish.

Cabernet Sauvignon Mount Peak Moon Mountain Sentinel 2016

This blend is a match for rich and meaty pizza and pasta. Think box of chocolate, candied violets, blackberry tart, and wild blueberries with hints of cedar and lavender. It’s an intense wine that can be enjoyed at your next pizza night or aged in a cellar for several more years to allow the flavours to continue to enrich.

Pinot Noir Cameron Hughes Lot 673 Russian River Valley 2018

This exceptional wine comes to fruition in California’s prestigious Pinot-growing region. Both the flavour and the price seem too good to be true when it comes to this high-quality wine. Upon sipping, you’ll find your palate is greeted with flavours of red fruit, like spiced cherry, cranberry, and strawberry for a dry yet juicy finish.

Spottswoode Cabernet Sauvignon St. Helena 2016

This Cabernet Sauvignon has been described as ripe and multifaceted, coming in at 100 points. You’ll find this dynamic wine unfurls on your palate with tastes of black, blue, and red fruit, as well as sparks of dark chocolate, cedar, and prosciutto. It’s medium-bodied with intense, complex layers and a mineral finish.

Chardonnay Brewer Clifton Santa Rita Hills 2017

Chardonnay? More like Chardonn-yay. This Santa Rita Hills blend is the result of the cool and foggy Pacific climate in Santa Barbara County, making for a crisp and complex wine with tones of walnut, marmalade, and sun-dried honeysuckle.

Todos Jonata Ballard Canyon Santa Ynez 2016

This world-class wine is a hefty blend of Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and the rest is Petite Sirah and Viognier. It’s full-bodied, balanced, and pure — and, overall, a great introduction to this style of wine that won’t break the bank.

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These exclusive California wines are open for pre-order from August 20 to August 23. The release date is September 12, when any remaining product will be available in-store for purchase.

Visit the BC Liquor Stores website for more information on this exciting release, or drop by your nearest location for a safe in-store shopping experience.

And, as always, please remember that drinks are best enjoyed when they’re enjoyed responsibly.