This post is brought to you by California Wines & More.

There are a number of dynamics in play that explain it, but suffice it to say that finding a good selection of Californian wines in Malaysia has always been something of a challenge. It’s not for lack of production: California actually produces twice as much wine as the entire country of Australia. It’s not that quality wines aren’t made there: some of the world’s best wines are from California, with the Napa Valley region being among the most-praised. Regardless of the reasons, until very recently, if you wanted a wide selection of wines from the Golden State, you were really out of luck.

All that has changed with the new opening of a well-run wine shop in Subang Airport, of all places. I’ve long enjoyed flying in and out of Subang, as it’s convenient, tidy, and a breeze to get around. Now, there’s one more reason to love it: California Wines & More, a wonderful little wine shop right on the way to the gates. The store sells Californian wines exclusively, along with a few other selected items, a standout being a California-grown and packed extra virgin olive oil. For the most part, though, it’s wine and lots of it.

The first thing that struck me about California Wines & More was the wide selection of varietals on offer. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Petit Sirah, Malbec, Shiraz, Pinot Noir, and even a Burgundy blend represent some of the reds, with Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Moscato showcasing the state’s white grapes. Apart from a great range of “regular” wines, a few choices of bubbly, a nice selection of fortied wines like ports and sherries, and some truly unexpected finds make this a store well worth ducking into. Kosher wine? Check. Vegan-friendly wine? Check. Organic wine? Check. Ready-to-drink sangria? Check. Sacramental wine blessed by the Archbishop of Los Angeles? Believe it or not, that’s a check, too! Around 70% of the wines sold in California Wines & More are award winners, as well, so there are some pretty decent wines to be discovered here.

The wines sold at the shop are duty-paid, despite it being located in Subang Airport, so for many destinations, the staff will be happy to pack your purchase in a tamper-proof bag so that you can take it onboard your flight. Of course, picking up a bottle or two on your way back home is never a problem! Prices are reasonable and fair; indeed, I was pleasantly surprised at the prices of most of the wines, with only a handful of the sought-after Napa Valley labels exceeding the store’s average bottle price of around RM60-65. And California Wines & More is indeed more than just a retail store. They have launched a California Wine Club as a membership program for wine lovers to enjoy discounts, special offers, tasting sessions, and pre-allocations of new wines.

For an overview of this exciting new shop, and a full line-up and description of all the wines on offer, as well as news of ongoing promotions and specials, you can visit their website at www.californiawinesandmore.com. So the next time you’re at Subang Airport, or just in the area, make a point of stopping by and checking out the outstanding selection of wines – and more – from America’s largest wine-producing state.

Source: The Expat February 2014

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