Blackcomb Wine Club

A Glass of Glenfarclas

2011-11-23T16:26:00.000-08:00

There is something very alluring about Scotch whisky, and in particular Single Malt Scotch. It is an aura of mystique, tradition, and the sense of place that true single malts provide. All the great drinks of the world have it. It keeps single malts among the most in-demand of spirits, as well as maintaining its luxury status. The ability to evoke emotion; whether it’s a fond memory, a thrill of excitement as you tantalize your senses, or even the drowning of sorrows, is the calling card of something special. And the whiskies of the Glenfarclas Distillery are something special.

One of the few remaining family-owned and operated highland distilleries, Glenfarclas has been headed by the Grant family for generations, not the Grant family of William Grant’s brand, but another Grant family, (all of them named either John or George). Nestled along the banks of the Spey River in the Highland district, they have been busy distilling since 1836, and continue to create beautiful single malt whiskies to this day. Using premium select barley malt and highland spring water, Glenfarclas whiskies are painstakingly milled, mashed, fermented and batch-distilled in small copper stills and then carefully aged, and finished in oak barrels 60% sherry cask finish and 40% new oak.

The Glenfarclas whiskies are of varying ages and character ranging from 10 year old to 40 year old, as well as special bottlings and a line of single vintage whiskies by year dating back as early as 1953! But one trait shared by all of them is an elegant aromatic character. By using no peat in the malting of the grain, the intense, sometimes bitter, smokey note is not present and so the whiskies become a touch more perfumed and delicate on the nose, enhanced by the influence of the sherry barrels. On the palate these are classic Speyside style single malts. Smooth, and layered with light fruity malt notes, spice, caramel and a lingering warmth, perfect for sipping by the fireplace.

Although not all of the Glenfarclas whiskies are available in British Columbia, my favourites include: the 8 year old which is brilliant as younger single malts go and has a fresher, slightly rustic malty character; and the 15 year old which is a decadent drop that has a seamless profile from start to finish offering dried fruit notes, nutty, toasty caramel, and baking spice that just drifts on the palate. So, if you find yourself in the vicinity of a comfortable spot, ready for some well-deserved luxury, pour yourself a glass of Glenfarclas and enjoy.

Cheers!

Michael Kompass

Cool Whites

2011-08-14T17:06:00.000-07:00

Well it has been a rather unusual summer but I like to consider myself an optimist; and although as I write this, it is only 12 degrees Celsius outside in the middle of July, I look forward to the coming warm days of summer. Not that we need an excuse, but once the warm days are upon us, we shall have the perfect opportunity to enjoy some cool white wines. Now, cool can mean temperature in the sense of cool and refreshing white wines; but it also can mean wines of unique and interesting character and in this article we can examine a few wines to which both uses of ‘cool’ can apply!

Bodegas Aruspide ‘Trio’ Blanco – a Spanish number from Castilla la Mancha, it is an appropriately named blend of three grapes. Chardonnay, Verdelho, and Airen, (which happens to be the most widely planted white wine grape in the world although most people have never heard of it). This is a country wine, medium bodied and un-oaked with a slightly rustic edge to it that offers up citrus peel, dried orchard fruit, and a subtle nutty spicy note with crisp acidity. Suitable for enjoying by the glass, but a great match for an afternoon tapenade platter.

Montresor Bianco del Nago – an interesting expression of classic Venetian white wine grape Garganega; a variety most often found blended into the wines of Soave. Although it’s a little difficult to pronounce, it is easy to drink thanks to its inviting, slightly candied floral notes, and flavours of lemon zest, melon, and pear fruit. It is an un-oaked, mid-weight white with a very pleasing hint of richness in the mouthfeel, followed by a crisp, dry finish. Produced with a commitment to organic sustainable farming it makes an excellent match to seafood, shellfish, weisswurst, or a seasonal salad.

Inca Torrontes-Chardonnay – an unusual Argentine blend that puts it all together and makes a terrific wine. You could say that Torrontes is the unofficial white wine grape of Argentina; fruity and aromatic and bearing a slight resemblance to Gewurztraminer, but when paired with approximately 20% Chardonnay you get a juicy summer white loaded with aromatics and flavours of mandarin orange, apple, stone fruits and slight spice. Also un-oaked, this is a light bodied, juicy white perfect for patio sipping or washing down a spicy dynamite roll, or a picnic at the beach.

So when the warm weather gets here, (I’ve got my fingers crossed), reach for a ‘cool white’ and enjoy the sunshine.

Cheers!

Something to Smile about.....

2011-07-12T20:39:00.000-07:00

As I write this amidst our unseasonably cool and wet weather; the Vancouver Canucks are up 3 games to 2 versus the Boston Bruins in the Stanley Cup final which has proven to be an all-out battle with both teams fighting tooth and nail for victory;. But I find myself thinking, “…win or lose, there’s always wine!”. Wine has many attractive qualities, but one of the most wonderful is its ability to bring a smile to the lips of the imbiber. Wine can take on such delightful characteristics they just make you happy – like the smell of flowers in spring, or the taste of the season’s first cherries. So whether you need to lift your spirits, drown your sorrows, or celebrate The Cup, here a few wines to smile about!

Black Widow Estate Winery ‘Oasis’ – an incredible blend by Dick Lancaster from his estate vineyard on the Naramata Bench. A judicious mixture of Pinot Gris, Sylvaner and Gewurztraminer that unloads huge perfumey aromatics and sweet ripe flavours of orchard blossoms, peaches, apricots and melon. Long and luscious, perfect for summer sunsets.

Arrowleaf Winery ‘Snow Tropics’ – an appropriately named wine from producers who were longtime grape suppliers to Gray Monk. A cool climate wine made from the Vidal grape that delivers layers of seductive citrus and tropical fruit on the nose, with a slightly off-dry and juicy palate that refreshes and leaves you wanting another glass.

Joie Farm ‘Noble Blend’ – another Naramata knockout, produced by Heidi Noble and Michael Dinn. The Noble Blend is exactly that, a blend of the classic white grapes of Alsace made in an Edelzwicker style. Intense aromatics, and rich palate bring forth floral citrus, pink grapefruit, stone fruits and pears. A delicious drinker and a fantastic food partner.

Red Diamond Merlot – it’s a bit of a hidden treasure from Washington State. A very approachable, fruit-driven wine that offers classic black cherry character with subtle sweet floral spice notes and hints of caramel and candied fruit. Softly structured, with balanced acidity it’s a perfect drink-anytime picnic red.

So if you’re in need of a smile or just something delicious, give these a try – they promise to deliver a happy grin at the very least!

Enjoy!

Michael Kompass

Wine Tasting at The Blackcomb Liquor Store!

2011-06-14T15:24:00.000-07:00

We're super excited to introduce our latest project - WINE TASTING at The Blackcomb Liquor Store! Since we're located in Beautiful British Columbia, we thought a BC Wine focus would be appropriate so we're calling the tastings:

THE BOUNTY OF BC!

Whether you are visiting Whistler for a few days, a few weeks, or live in-resort, we cordially invite you to come taste six different British Columbia wines. Click here for more information and we look forward to seeing you soon!

To book a Bounty of BC Wine Tasting please EMAIL US.

Cheers!

Lean & Mean

2011-04-04T14:15:00.000-07:00

As you may have heard from me before, I continue to uphold the idea that balance is the key to truly great wine. One thing that can tilt the scales either for better or worse, is the use of oak; it can contribute a great deal to the body, flavour, and maturation of wine. The use of oak in wine is a very old concept, but remains to this day a very contentious subject, sparking a love – hate relationship with many wine drinkers. Some wines are vinified in oak either vats or barrels, some wines are matured in oak either older (used) or new barrels or vats of varying sizes, some wines are both vinified and matured in oak. Sometimes the addition of oak chips or staves is used to instill some of the characteristics of oak without the $500+ per barrel cost.

Yet there are a myriad number of wines produced without the use of oak barrels, or barriques, or vats, or anything wood-like. Produced in stainless steel, glass-lined, or concrete tanks, and matured in bottle instead of barrel. These wines can offer just as much character, intensity, and pleasure as their oak-clad cousins but they tend to do so in a racier way, focusing on fruit character and the inherent structural components to keep things ‘lean and mean’. German Rieslings, New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs, Italian Pinot Grigios, and classic Chablis; there are too many to count but here are a few favourites.

Lagaria Pinot Grigio
A light bodied and refreshing dry white wine that has aromas of golden apple, lemon zest, and delicate floral notes. The palate has juicy acidity and crisp fruit character with a clean finish. This wine pairs well with kalamari, creamy pasta, or a little garlic sausage.

Churton Sauvignon Blanc
A sharp, modern-style Sauvignon Blanc from a family operated estate. Filled with aromas of tropical citrus and peppery, grassy herbaceous notes. The palate is medium-full and offers ripe gooseberry, tangy citrus, and mouth watering acidity. It makes a great match for shell fish, light seafood, or a hunk of Chevre.

Nero del Nago Corvina
A clean mid-weight red with a nose offering hints of cherry, subtle spice and a sweet leathery hint. The palate is medium bodied, with balanced structure and mouth filling flavours of red and black fruits with a trace of earth and herbs. A wine for lasagna, pork sausage, or roast duck breast.

Von Buhl ‘Armand’ Riesling
This lovely German number has an alluring aroma of floral stone fruit, citrus, and a slight stony minerality. The juicy palate offers more of the same in fruit character, (just a touch off-dry), laced with appley notes and racy acidity that pairs with almost everything from schnitzel to fondue to a sunny afternoon.

Enjoy!

Michael Kompass

Michael is a local sommelier who operates the Blackcomb Liquor Store and Vintage Advice Consultants, and heads the Blackcomb Wine Appreciation Club since 2001.

February Favourites

2011-02-11T14:42:00.000-08:00

It may be the shortest month of the year, but it is certainly not the least. The snow continues to fall, eagles return to their northern nests, spring breaks begin, we celebrate the occasional leap year as well as Valentine’s day, and much more. So no matter what your reason to sit back and enjoy a little wine I recommend you do so – and here are a few of my February favourites.

ADAMI BOSCO DI GICA: a superb bubbly from a superb producer. Adriano Adami is painstaking bordering on obsessive about his proseccos. The Bosco di Gica is a classic extra dry, with alluring perfumed floral, appley-citrus fruit and wonderful juicy acidity creamy bubbles, and persistent finish making it fun to drink on its own or a great match for a crisp salad, creamy pasta dish, or some fresh oysters.

PARES BALTA BLANC DE PACS: a unique white wine in that it is a blend of Parellada, Macabeo, and Xarello; totally obscure grapes used for Cava, (Spanish sparkling wine), production but vinified in a dry table wine style. A light greenish-yellow colour with leafy flowery notes hinting at orchard fruits. Delicate and crisp on the palate with tangy citrus and apple-pear notes, a pleasant richness to the mouth feel and a long juicy finish. Another great by-the-glass wine or perfect for green olive tapenade, seafood, or mild cheeses.

GIANFRANCO ALESSANDRIA BAROLO: wonderful mid-winter red with soft ruby red colour fading slightly around the edges. The nose is layered with dried flowers, orange peel, tar, leather and spice. The well structured palate is balanced and has an elegant strength as it offers intense dried dark berry fruit, bittersweet cocoa, subtle earthiness, leather and tremendous length. Perfect to chase away the winter chill or enjoy with savoury braised beef ribs, or game stew.

Try these wines, or others and make your own February Favourites list; it’s a great way to pass the time while our days are still short and our nights are still cold. Remember: variety is the spice of life so try something new next time you pull the cork.

Enjoy!

Michael Kompass

Happy Holidays from The Blackcomb Liquor Store

2010-12-15T14:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Holidays!

Take a look at our Blackcomb Liquor Store Newsletter for some great wine and "bubbles" suggestions that are fantastic options for this festive season!

Thanks to everyone for your support and we look forward bringing you more great wine and beer suggestions in 2011!

Blackcomb Liquor Store HOLIDAY NEWSLETTER

Cheers!

Holiday Cheer

2010-11-22T19:46:00.000-08:00

It is easy to become distracted during the rush of December. The population of our little mountain town triples seemingly overnight. We hear the clamour of lift lines, we see the joyous faces of children temporarily freed from the confines of schools, and we put our best foot forward to welcome another winter season. But when the snow falls thick and deep, and the hustle-bustle of the holidays is at its finest, we take comfort in the companionship of friends and family. We share together good company, boisterous conversation, food and drink, and great cheer. What better way to do that than with fine wine. It warms away a chill; it soothes a weary traveler; it calms the nerves; it whets the appetite; and of course it makes a great gift! The following are some of my favourites for happy holidays:

La Serra Moscato d’Asti – a classic, delicate and aromatic fruit-filled white, with just enough bubble and a hint of sweetness to make you want another glass. Besides, a little breakfast wine isn’t such a bad thing!

Tantalus Old Vines Riesling – a brilliant BC white wine produced in a drier style with racy acidity, crisp citrus and mineral notes. A palate loaded with nectarine, lean lemony fruit and hints of pine and slate. Great with anything from cheese plates to turkey dinners.

Hendry Block 28 Zinfandel – a long running family-run estate grown Zinfandel, offering ripe aromas and flavours of brambly berry fruit, leather, woodspice, and warm alcohol framed in French oak. A match for turkey, roast duck, or a little dark chocolate.

Domaine de Nizas Old Vines Carignan – an underappreciated red from Southern France with lots of body, dried berries, black olive and baking spice notes. Rich and robust, it will pair well with roast game or braised meat dishes.

Quinta do Crasto Vintage Port – the ultimate after dinner drink. Sweet and fortified, it virtually tastes like Christmas pudding in a glass, with a long lingering warmth that leaves you satisfied in a cozy armchair.

So whenever and however you celebrate this holiday season, as you sit with friends or gather around the festive feast. Remember to take time and enjoy a little holiday cheer.

Wishing you all the best for a happy and healthy holiday season!

Cheers!
Michael

"Cheap & Cheerful" Wine Club Event - October 2010

2010-11-05T15:18:00.000-07:00

SNAP Sea-to-Sky was kind enough to take some photos of our last wine club event. The theme was "cheap and cheerful", and participants sampled wines from British Columbia, The United States, Chile and Argentina. Looks like everyone had a great time!

Take a look and ENJOY!

Michael Kompass passionately presents the wine selections.

Kerry Gamble & Tabetha Boot - CHEERS!

Marilyn & Ian Crichton

Lisa Fernandez, Dave Sharpe & Michelle Brown

Geoff Patterson helping to serve.

Linda McKean, Wilma Weidner & Kathy Macalister

Dave & Karen Williamson and Skippy Keith enjoying a toast.

New Members Invited!

2010-10-15T10:29:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wanted to learn how to develop a greater appreciation for wine?  The Blackcomb Wine Club always welcomes new people!

The Blackcomb Wine Appreciation Club has been active since 2001. We are a community interest group focused on developing wine culture and appreciation through tasting and interaction. "Membership" is open - no commitment is required, and there is no membership fee.   The club was developed as a sociable way to enjoy tasting wines, and discover new favourites (and learn a little too!).

Events are generally held once per month at The Fitzsimmons Pub and occasionally at other venues (such as the Whistler Brewery or the Fairmont Wine Room etc). There is a small drop in fee of $5 - $10/person. The format is a sit-down, structured tasting, wine by wine, with host/moderator frequently with special guest speakers and occasional wine and food pairing dinners.

Members are able to sample wines before purchasing, and there are significant wholesale savings when purchasing in quantities of cases or half cases (12 or 6 bottles).

Future events are posted on The Blackcomb Liquor Store Facebook page.

You are invited to our next event. Come out and expand your palate and try some new wines!

Counterparts

2010-10-06T14:09:00.000-07:00

The concept of counterparts is a straightforward one. Such as: action and reaction, night and day, male and female, and so on. Not necessarily exact opposites, but corresponding differences. This adds definition by contrast, keeps things in balance, helps us to appreciate variety. There are many examples of counterparts in the world of wine, as in nature and everywhere else; but truly one of the most classic and precise examples to be found, is that of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.

Both are grapes, both hail distantly from the same genetic family, both are enjoyed all over the globe: arguably the two single best known grape varieties worldwide. Chardonnay is a white wine grape; Pinot Noir is a red wine grape. Chardonnay is prolific bordering on ubiquitous while Pinot Noir is the elusive heart breaker of countless winemakers the world over. More often than not they are found in the same growing areas, and in Burgundy they are basically the be all and end all of all wine making bar none.

I happen to enjoy both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and recently tasted two excellent examples from Hartford Court in California’s Sonoma Valley. Hartford Court is a very limited production winery that focuses heavily on single estate bottlings of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Production of these special wines can range from 800 cases to less than 100 cases.

The Hartford Court Stone Cote Vineyard Chardonnay 2005: produced in 100% French oak, 60% of which is new oak. The wine is clear with a deep golden straw colour that fades slightly around the rim. The nose is moderate and layered with youthful and slightly developed characteristics. It offers creamed corn, vanilla, lime, sweet hazelnut and citrus notes. The palate is dry and medium-full bodied and well-balanced with flavours of spice, toast, white citrus fruits, and a rich buttered biscuit character that lingers well.

The Hartford Court Fog Dance Vineyard Pinot Noir 2005: produced in 100% French oak, 55% of which is new oak. The wine is clear, and shows a pale ruby colour that fades to a slightly ruddy rim. Youthful as well a slightly developed aromatics rise from the glass showing sweet leather, stewed strawberry, woodspice and wet cherry blossom. The palate is dry, medium weight with juicy acidity and gently balanced tannins. Loads of flavours are present giving juicy red berry fruit, hints of sweet beets, tangy cherry, earthy spiciness, and a long warm finish.

Both excellent wines in their own right, as well as fine examples of the “yin and yang” of red and white wines. So even as we head ever closer to colder weather remember to balance your wine enjoyment with both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, (or whatever counterparts you love best!).

Cheers!
Michael

Blackcomb Liquor Store

2010-08-24T08:26:00.000-07:00

SAVVY SIPPING -- SNAP Sea To Sky September 2010 edition

“The Virtue of Patience”

We recently took a trip to visit old friends of ours in Kelowna; friends who have a swimming pool; definitely the highlight of the trip for our 2 year old daughter! So as Scarlett started by easing her way into the water, (first sitting on the edge, then working her way to jumping in with hands held, and by the third day running headlong off the edge and splashing into the arms of whichever adult happened to be in the water at the time), we made a pact with our generous hosts to drink only good wine during the visit. It was a vintage evening, with perfectly prepared food I sadly do not have time to delve into, but the wines ranging in age from 6 to 11 years, were superb.

The Starter Shafer Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 1999: still inky dark in the centre of the glass yet showing its age around the edge where the purple fades to a ruddy reddish tone. The nose offering dried cassis, prune plums, cocoa and earthy cigar box aromas. The palate is still well structured with the tannins softening in their age yet still supportive of the sweet leathery fruit, black liquorice, and nearly nutty oak character, with a warm and persistent finish.

The Head to Head Mission Hill Family Estate Oculus 2003 vs. Osoyoos Larose Le Grand Vin 2003. Both from the same year, both produced with similar grape varieties, of course sharing several similarities, yet maintaining distinctly different characteristics. Each wine was starting to show the ruddy fade of colour, each wine offering more mature notes on the nose and palate. The Oculus with a more modern style overall had a bit brighter fruit character with kirsch, baked cherry, woodspice notes, and softer tannins, while the Osoyoos Larose was a more true throwback to the Bordelaise with a dense structure, and notes of raisiny cassis, violet and earthy dried pepper. Both wines complemented the lamb magnificently.

The Surprise Foxtrot Vineyards Pinot Noir 2004: the inaugural vintage of this highly esteemed vineyard, who for several years produced grapes for other wineries and now have created a cult following for their exquisite Pinot. Still fairly youthful in character this medium bodied wine maintains a wonderful freshness to its acidity and red dominant fruit character layered with notes of crushed strawberries, dried leaves, game, and a delicate clove like spice. Wonderfully balanced with a lingering finish, this wine will continue to develop over time.

The Closer Woodward Canyon Old Vines Cabernet Sauvignon 2002: a perennial standout produced from the oldest Cabernet vines in Washington state. A beautifully balanced wine from start to finish, slightly red-brick in colour with flavours and aromas of crushed violets, dried black cherries, cassis, dusty packed earth, and old cedar, Wonderfully integrated spicy oak and a very long elegant finish – an incredible wine with a little more longevity to it as well.

So just as Scarlett was rewarded with taking her time as she ventured more and more boldly into the pool, so too were we rewarded with the virtue of patience and time with truly memorable vintage wines. The moral of the story: take your time, and life is too short to drink bad wine.

Enjoy!

Michael Kompass

Special Christmas Edition - Blackcomb Liquor Store Quarterly News

2009-12-19T07:10:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE BLS STAFF Well, what a fairy-tale start to the Winter, with mother nature really delivering the goods. While all that snow was falling we were busy probing our suppliers for their best new wines, and we have found many winners. Yep, we tasted over 500 wines in November alone, so that we could continue to offer you the best wine in Whistler. Read on for some of the best. We had a blast at Cornucopia and it has been interesting to see some sudden interest from new suppliers keen to enter the Whistler market (ed - I wonder why?). The BC wine industry continues to grow (now a winery in Lillooet!) with some excellent new entries into the market that are a must to try. If you need any recommendations for matching wine with your dinner ideas, we’d love to help out; give us a call or stop by the store. Lastly we’d like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas filled with family, friends and of course, good wine!

Click here or on the image above to download the newsletter in full (PDF).

Champagne - Something to Celebrate - Michael Kompass
Champagne - No other sparkling wine has the history, tradition, and prestige, and no other sparkling wine has the weight, complexity, and diversity of champagne. The elaborate
production is what gives champagne its character... Read more...

Beard on Beers - Belhaven Wee Heavy
My Grandmother’s maiden name is McGregor; which somehow makes her “the son of Gregory.” You’d think with that heritage I’d know all there is to know about Scotch ale. Quite the opposite actually, but a little research over a pint of ‘wee heavy’ revealed quite an interesting story. Read more...

The Rarest of Rare - Single Cask, Single Malt Whisky
The Single Malt Whisky is among the most revered beverages on the planet. No other spirit offers the diversity and ‘sense of place’ and no other spirit has the cult following of great single malt Whisky. The McGibbins’ “Provenance” series of single cask, single malts are
worthy of a place in any scotch Whisky lovers’ bar... Read more...

First Newsletter from Blackcomb Liquor Store - Fall 2009

2009-12-19T06:53:00.000-08:00

THE LATEST FROM THE BLACKCOMB LIQUOR STORE

Click on the image above to download the newsletter in full!

So I guess you’re wondering what this is all about then? Well, since not everyone can make it to our wine club events, we thought we’d bring the wine club to you! Yeah, yeah, no tasting by email but we’re working on bringing back the scratch & sniff patches :) Anyhow, it’s been a big few months and just as we write this we’ve had a vertical tasting of Oculus and the new Compendium - fabulous work from Mission Hill! John Duval (former Penfold’s Grange winemaker) visited with his new wines and the new vintage BC wines keep arriving each week. Let me see, what else? We found a secret stash of 1997 Grand Cru Chablis and 1999 1er Cru Chablis for your drinking pleasure, and we keep coming across great value reds from Portugal, so look out for those at under $25. Enjoy the newsletter - we certainly enjoyed putting it together and remember it’s coming up quickly to Thanksgiving and Halloween, so please let us know if you need anything to make your dinner or party a memorable one. Cheers - Ed.read more...

John Glaetzer Visits
We recently had the pleasure of a private tasting with legendary Australian winemaker John Glaetzer, who was showcasing his signature ‘John’s Blend’ and also the new Gypsie Jack
range...read more...

Beefeater 24 Review- Michael Kompass
The world is constantly changing, and the drinks industry is no exception. Products and fads come and go, tastes and fashions change, and the ‘hot & not’ lists go on and on. Every once in a while something really good comes along, and Beefeater 24 is something really good!.read more...

Sixer’s Suggestions - Orofino Wines
After purchasing the vineyard in 2001, John and Virginia Weber have gone on to do great things with it. Located in Cawston, in the heart of the Similkameen Valley, Orofino
are now producing some of B.C.’s top wines. read more...

Beard on Beers - Phillips IPA
India Pale Ale was a cunning recipe devised by the British back in the days of the Colonial occupation of India. Now India’s a pretty hot place, so the lads needed to quench their thirst with tasty beer. How would they ship it to the sub-continent without it spoiling?
What a dilemma! Lots of hops were added, a higher alcohol content and the resin from that hops kept the bugs at bay. IPA was born. This truly was one of the last great triumphs of the British Empire! read more...

Pascal’s Picks - Hoegaarden
No, I’m not talking about those garden tools, but the original Belgian white beer, HOEGAARDEN!! This ain’t no twist off jobby, it’s European! read more...

2009-02-18T08:37:00.000-08:00

Finally it’s here! The February wine club
After a minor delay we are back with another exciting tasting. This month we are featuring a focus on wine from Oregon. We will be pouring 2 whites and 4 reds of different styles, regions, and producers. It will be informative and delicious as always!

Date: Thursday February 26th
Time: 7pm
Where: The Fitzsimmons Pub
Cost: $10.00 / person

Seating is limited please RSVP by email michael@blackcombliquorstore.com or telephone @
604-932-9795. Hope to see you there.

Cheers,

Michael

DECEMBER WINE CLUB

2008-12-03T10:52:00.000-08:00

DECEMBER WINE CLUB!
Hot on the heels of our last event I am excited to announce our next tasting which will be ‘An Evening of Bubblies’ – no Bubbies this year haha!
I am hoping we can all get together to taste some terrific Champagnes and Sparkling wines before the full rush of the winter season kicks in.

WHAT: An Evening of Bubblies
DATE: Tuesday December 9th, 2008.
VENUE: The Fitzsimmons Pub
TIME: 7:00 pm
COST: $10.00 / person

As always, space is limited and seats are bound to go quickly. Please RSVP as soon as you can in order to ensure your attendance either via email or telephone 604-932-9795.

I look forward to seeing you all there!

MICHAEL

MAY WINE CLUB

2008-05-21T08:30:00.000-07:00

MAY WINE CLUB

Since the weather has finally become a little more favourable it is time for our next event. The Blackcomb Locals’ Wine Appreciation Club will be hosting a wine tasting featuring the wines of Lang Vineyards from Naramata. David Aidla will be with us to present the wines and share discussion. It is a seasonal theme with focus on white wines and rose. Please rsvp to confirm attendance, and I hope to hear from you soon. Cheers

MICHAEL

WHEN: THURSDAY MAY 29TH
TIME: 7PM
WHERE: THE FITZSIMMONS PUB
COST: $5.00

PLEASE RSVP BY EMAIL MICHAEL@BLACKCOMBLIQUORSTORE.COM OR CALLING 604-932-9795. REMEMBER SPACE IS LIMITED!
WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR YOUR COMMENTS ON OUR WINE CLUB BLOG http://www.blackcombliquorstore.com/pgs/blog/index.html

March Events

2008-03-04T11:44:00.000-08:00

MARCH WINE CLUB

We have another exciting event lined up for March. Another special guest will be with us, to present wines from the Rhone Valley in southeast France. Abigail Pyett from FreeHouse Wines and Spirits will be presenting and discussing 6 delicious new wines from a variety of stunning Rhone producers.

WHEN: Thursday March 6, 2008.
WHERE: The Fitz Pub (formerly BBKS)
TIME: 7:00pm
COST: $5.00 / person

Please RSVP to 604-932-9795 to reserve a seat, or if you have any questions or comments.
I hope to hear from you soon!

December Events

2007-12-03T08:54:00.000-08:00

December Wine Club

WHAT: A cross-section of France from the Loire to Chablis to Bordeaux and more!
6 different wines from different regions including a rare dessert wine,
presented by our special guest Paul Watkin of the Seacove Group

WHERE: The Fitzsimmons Pub (formerly BBKS)

WHEN: 7:00pm on DECEMBER 12th Wednesday

COST: $5 / person

Please remember that space is limited and RSVP via email or to 604-932-9795

November Wine Club

2007-11-03T08:40:00.000-07:00

November Wine Club

A selection of whites and reds that are perfect for the upcoming holiday season.
Wednesday November 14th
BBK's Pub

7pm

Coming Soon.....December Wine Club with special guest Paul Watkin from the Seacove Group.
Michael

Please Rsvp @ info@blackcombliquorstore.com or 604-932-9795

Hope to see you there!

2007-09-10T13:17:00.001-07:00

September Wine Club

2007-09-10T13:07:00.000-07:00

The next Wine Appreciation Club will be meeting on

Thursday September 20th @ 7:00pm, at BBK's Pub.

"SPANISH SPECIALTIES"

R.S.V.P to reserve your spot @ 604-932-9795

OR email Michael@blackcombliquorstore.com

Hope to see you there.

ALL NEW IN 2007

2007-06-25T15:04:00.000-07:00

The Blackcomb Liquor Store Wine Club!
Check this site to find out about everything wine related!
We will post our tips and advice to make your wine search easier and pleasurable.
Enjoy Enjoy!!!