The time is near for a highly anticipated annual event for British Columbia wine-lovers - the Best of BC release.

The Liquor Distribution Branch is pleased to once again offer their customers access to some of the best wine B.C. wine-producers have to offer.

The Best of BC release brings together premium VQA wines that showcase some of the more spectacular vintages in recent years. These rare, sought-after British Columbia wines are produced in small quantities and have limited availability in the marketplace. This offering will be available beginning Saturday, Oct. 29.

Customers will be able to choose from 28 premium wines from 14 BC wineries. The wine selections feature an exceptional range of high-quality British Columbia reds and whites. Best of BC wine selections include Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, Syrah, Tempranillo, Chardonnay, Riesling and a variety of blends.

To assist customers to make informed product selections, a Best of BC booklet is available on the LDB's website and in Signature BC Liquor Stores. The Best of BC booklet features tasting notes and a vintage chart. In addition, British Columbia Wine Institute vintage reports for 2008 and 2009 are included.

Best of BC wines are available in 21 Signature and select BC Liquor Stores throughout the province. Participating store locations outside Vancouver and Victoria include: Abbotsford, Westwood Centre (Port Coquitlam), Highgate Village (Burnaby), Brighouse (Richmond), Nordel Crossing (Surrey), Columbia Place (Kamloops), Penticton Plaza (Penticton), Orchard Park (Kelowna) and Pine Centre (Prince George).

For a complete list of participating locations, visit: www.bcliquorstores.com

Customers are advised to shop early to avoid disappointment. Limited quantities per customer will apply on some products.

Quick Facts:

• The LDB's Best of BC retail program started in 2004.
• All wines bearing the VQA symbol must be made from 100 per cent BC-grown grapes.

Learn More:

http://www.bcliquorstores.com/best-bc

Contacts:

Michèle Mackintosh
Communications Manager
Liquor Distribution Branch
604 252-3029
604 838-1105 (cell)

Tarina Palmer
Senior Communications Program Officer
Liquor Distribution Branch
604 252-3028
604 362-4984 (cell)