Mike McCardle always tells great stories on the GlobalTV six o'clock news here in Vancouver. He shows life on the street and in particular looks at Vancouver's "rough" part of town, the Downtown Eastside. The DTES is undergoing change, and fortunately some new entrepreneurs are finding it a worthwhile spot to open new businesses.
We have not explored the Campagnolo Wine Bar yet, but Mike's visit featured in this video and the warm personality of the proprietor really makes us want to go there soon.
Mike Klassen is a Vancouver city councillor, communications professional, and long-time advocate for British Columbia’s wine industry. He co‑founded BC Wine Lover in 2007 with his wife Stacey, sharing stories from their travels through the province’s wine regions and spotlighting the people and places that make B.C. wine distinctive.
In 2015, Mike led the BC Wine Appellation Task Group, guiding a province‑wide consultation that produced recommendations—later endorsed by industry plebiscite—that strengthened B.C.’s appellation standards and helped establish today’s sub‑GIs.
His writing has appeared in the Vancouver Sun, Huffington Post, and Daily Hive, blending history, policy insight, and personal experience. Alongside his work on Vancouver City Council, Mike continues to explore vineyards across the province, champion local producers, and celebrate the evolving culture of B.C. wine.
