Vancouver’s whisky scene is a treasure trove for aficionados and curious newcomers alike, with a selection of liquor stores that transform the simple act of purchasing a bottle into an exciting adventure. Each shop offers a distinctive atmosphere and an impressive array of whiskies, from beloved classics to hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Whether hunting for a smooth single malt, a robust bourbon, or an intriguing craft distillery find, these top five liquor stores in the City of Vancouver promise to elevate your whisky shopping experience and tantalize your taste buds.
For Local and Limited Edition Options: Legacy Liquor
Whether you are looking for small batch releases from your favourite local distillery, premium single malts from around the world, or statement bottles from the Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS), Legacy Liquor Store, located in Olympic Village, has an extensive selection of whisky offerings for all price points. In addition, if you want to try before you buy, the Taste of Legacy, located next door, offers ongoing whisky, wine, and other spirits-tasting events regularly.
For Quick Fixes: 1933 Liquor Co. or MyLiquorStore.ca
If you’re needing a special bottle as a last-minute gift but are short on time, 1933 Liquor Co. offers a wide selection of whiskies that can be delivered the same day, and the best part is if you spend over $69, you’ll receive free delivery. Similarly, you can get your preferred bottle delivered in under 2 hours from MyLiquorStore.ca, which pulls from the current downtown selections at Burrard Liquor Store and Crosstown Liquor.
For Extensive Selections: BCLIQUOR Store (Cambie & 39th)
Just a short 15-minute Skytrain from Vancouver City Centre station, the BCLIQUOR Store at 39th and Cambie offers a supermarket-sized offering of whisky and other spirits. If you are considering becoming a collector, this location is also the premier locale for the BCLIQUOR Premium Spirit Release, which happens annually in November. This event is highly anticipated among spirits enthusiasts, as it showcases a curated selection of premium and limited-edition spirits worldwide, including whisky, rum, gin, and other liquors.
For Whisky Accoutrements: The Modern Bartender
If you want to turn that whisky into a restaurant-worthy cocktail, The Modern Bartender offers an incredible selection of cocktail bitters, syrups, glassware and bar tools. Everything you need to craft an exceptional tipple is located here – except the whisky itself.
Embarking on a journey to expand your whisky knowledge can be an exciting and rewarding experience. With the diverse selection of liquor stores in Vancouver, you can explore a wide range of whiskies and discover new favourites that will elevate your home bar. Whether you are a seasoned whisky enthusiast or just beginning to build your bar cart, Vancouver’s whisky scene offers something for everyone. So, why not start building your stellar bar cart today and take your love for whisky to new heights? Cheers to discoveries and delightful drams!
Guest Contributor: Reece Sims, Founder of FlavorCamp and Sip Spirits. She is a recognized spirits writer and ISC Judge. Connect with Reece through her journey story at Portfolio.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine.
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