Blind tasting reviews are a fun game to play with restaurant sommeliers and wine nerds across town. I pour a glass from a mystery bottle and ask them to review it blind.  By not knowing what the wine is or who represents it, hopefully, an honest-no-bs-review is achieved.

Come inside and read the review of our next contestant…

Wine reviewed by Jason Yamasaki, a member of Chambar’s wine team. Jason is certified by the International Sommelier Guild, he has a WSET Advanced certificate and he’s worked a vintage in Austria. He’s a wealth of knowledge and has read just about every book on wine – and remembers most of the contents. Long story short: he’s pretty much the biggest wine geek around.

JoieFarm Un-Oaked Chardonnay 2011

ABV: 12.2%

Category: Chardonnay

Country/Region: Okanagan Valley, BC

Winemaker: JoieFarm

Appearance: Virtually water-white with a hint of lemon-green.

Nose: Pure, bright aromas of fresh apples and pear with a touch of herbaceousness and a pleasant minerality.

Palate: A dry wine but expressing ripe fruit character and a sunshine-bright gulpability. Actually finishes with a little banana-esque flavour.

Assessment of quality: Perfectly suited to the warming spring weather. Tote to the beach or the park and let the flavour just be an extension of the crystal-clear day.

Further comments upon reveal: Ah! A lovely producer for local deliciousness.

Availability: From the winery, private liquor stores and restaurants.

Pricing: $22.90 from winery, $25-30 in private liquor stores.

Blind tasting reviews are a fun game to play with restaurant sommeliers and wine nerds across town. I pour a glass from a mystery bottle and ask them to review it blind.  By not knowing what the wine is or who represents it, hopefully, an honest-no-bs-review is achieved.

Come inside and read the review of our next contestant…

^ Brooke Amber Biro is a sommelier at The Beach House Restaurant.

Brooke holds her Wine and Spirit Education Trust Advanced certificate and is currently pursuing her WSET Diploma. She has seen the end of more than a few corks.

Joel Gott Riesling 2009
ABV: 12.8%
Category: Riesling

Country/Region: Columbia Valley, Washington, USA

Winemaker: gottwines.com

Appearance: Clear, medium (-) lemon.

Nose: Clean, medium intensity and youthful aromas of peach, lemon, toast, almond and green apple.

Palate: Dry, medium acidity, body and flavour intensity with medium (+) alcohol. Flavours include green apple, honey, lemon, and almond. Length is medium (-).

Assessment of quality: Good quality wine. Clean, fresh and well made. Good concentration of fruit balanced by refreshing acidity, although it does have a slight greenness to it.

Availability: A new product in BC, available from specialty stores and restaurants.

Pricing: $20-24

~ SW

On the coattails of a successful wine festival, the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company announced March 9th that it will wind down operations. The last performance will be tonight, March 10th, at the end of Hunchback. This announcement ends 49 seasons of the company’s regional theatre in Vancouver.

The board concluded that it can’t continue operations with the amount of debt the company has and no realistic plan to pay it back. The debt was incurred over the last few years due to tough economic times, an insufficient operation model within the downtown theatre space and the cost of temporary production facilities.

Board Chair Jeff Schulz said at the press conference Friday afternoon that the board has considered every possible solution, and that there are no specific plans at this time for re-emergence.

The Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival was quick to announce that the wine fest will continue.

“The Wine Festival has flourished in its relationship with the Playhouse Theatre Company and we are saddened by today’s news,” says Wine Festival Board Chair Randy Kaardal in a press release. “However, the Wine Festival is a separate society and will continue in staging one of the city’s premier Festivals with our industry partners. We look forward to hosting a successful and vibrant Festival for our patrons in 2013.”

The Playhouse Wine Festival is produced by the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival Society and operates the Festival independently from the Playhouse Theatre Company with its own staff, operations and offices.

It was announced at last week’s festival that next year the festival’s theme region will be California and its global focus will be Chardonnay.  It will run from February 25th to March 3rd, 2013.

~ Sheila Whittaker

We wait a year for Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival, and all of a sudden it is next week. If you have left your ticket shopping until the last minute, never fear: there are still some great events with tickets to be had, even if about 30 of the events have already sold out.

Some people don’t realize that the VPIWF is a lot more than just the International Festival Tasting – the huge room where 791 wines from 180 wineries in 15 countries are on offer. Although this enormous tasting is an incredible opportunity to try more wine that you’ve ever dreamed, it can get crowded and overwhelming.

I think the wine seminars are where it’s at. You get to sit down, the wines are poured and waiting for you, and you’re led through the wines by experts – often the very person who made the wine. Here are three seminars with tickets still available where you can meet wine world celebrities and try their top wines.

Chadwick’s Iconic Quest – Thursday, March 1st, 2012

Eduardo Chadwick, Chilean wine pioneer and president and owner of Viña Errázuriz in Chile’s Aconcagua region, will lead this tasting of eight rare vintages of the best this bodega has to offer, such as Don Maximiano 1989 and Viñedo Chadwick 2001. The Viñedo Chadwick 2001 eclipsed famous houses such as Château Lafite, Château Margaux, Château Latour and Italian cult wines Tignanello, Sassicaia, Solaia and Guado al Tasso in a 2004 blind tasting of first growth wines in Berlin.  This is an amazing opportunity for $85.

Caymus Vertical Tasting – Wednesday, February 29th, 2012

Chuck Wagner, owner and winemaker at Caymus Vineyards, will be here to lead you through a Chuck Norris-style kick ass tasting of Napa Cab dating back to 1994. Special Selection, of which you will try seven vintages, is the only wine to have twice been named Wine Spectator’s “Wine of the Year.” You can get a ticket for $150 – compare that to one magnum of the 2008 Special Selection at a BC Liquor Store for $269.

Don Melchor: Behind the Blend – Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Winemaker Enrique Tirado will be here to show off Don Melchor – the jewel in the Concha y Toro crown, named after the founder. You’ll try seven 2011 ‘parcels’ of this wine and the 1993 and 2008 vintages. $125 gets you into this experience you couldn’t create for yourself.

For a list of all seminars: click here

10 things you need to know about the International Tasting Room:

1. About 175 winery principals will be behind the tables pouring wine. These are the head honchos of the wineries and if you have any questions about the wines, they will know the answers.
2. You have the opportunity to try 791 wines. Even if you think you’ve got an iron constitution, you should be spitting some of the wine out.
3. Get a booklet in advance to plan out your tasting evening. Prioritize: you won’t be able to taste everything, so get to your favourites first.
4. The regional tasting stations are good for discovering new things.  In addition to the main region, Chile, there will be stations for Australia, British Columbia, New Zealand, South Africa, and the South of France. There’s also a tasting station for the global focus: Cabernet(s).
5. You must eat dinner before you enter the room – it’s a three hour open bar. You might get some bread to cleanse your palate, but you won’t be fed a meal in the tasting room.
6. Ladies: you’ll be on your feet drinking for three hours. Plan your footwear accordingly, as glasses do break and carrying those heels and going barefoot could be dangerous.
7. Perfume, aftershave and other strong scents are a faux pas at a wine event. People are there to sniff the wines, not you.
8. To generalize, Thursday is the quietest night and a lot of people from the media and trade attend. Friday gets out more singles and professionals from the city. Saturday sees more couples, and the ‘bridge and tunnel’ crowd. Choose the evening that best suits you.
9. If you’re going to buy wine, don’t delay. The onsite retail store sells out quickly.
10. Keep track of what you liked so you can find them in stores. You’re not going to remember in the morning without some notes or a handful of wine cards.

It should go without saying that you should plan for a safe ride home. Enjoy the wine fest and find some great new favourites!

~ Sheila Whittaker

It’s showtime at Society – Movie nights starting March 7; Culinary takes centre stage at Mission Hill Family Estate this spring; An afternoon gathering of bearded gentlemen at Pourhouse; Meet the Vinestars of the Wine World; Chef Rob Feenie takes the silver at Gold Medal Plates; Big Lou’s celebrates Best of the City win with new promotions; Upcoming events at Legacy Liquor Store; Hamilton Street Grill Oscar Party; Chef Ned Bell keynote speaker at speed-dating event for farmers & chefs

IT’S SHOWTIME AT SOCIETY

Starting March 7, enjoy once-a-month movie nights at Yaletown’s coolest dining lounge

Vancouver, BC (February, 2012): On Wednesday, March 7, SOCIETY Dining Lounge will kick off its monthly movie night with the hilarious comedy, Bridesmaids. This fresh, monthly promo offers guests the opportunity to catch a flick in SOCIETY’s fun and flirty upper-level lounge space, while enjoying tempting food and drinks.

Chef Alfred Contiga has designed a fun menu packed with delicious goodies including $5 snacks like Buffalo Chicken Wings and Popcorn Shrimp. Pizza and Pasta options are available at $8 a pop, including hearty options such as Rigatoni Pomodoro and Wild Mushroom Pizza. Popcorn is FREE, but guests can choose to add on tasty flavourings – truffle, parmesan or Cajun – for just $1.

Night Rider, Angry Ape, and Ticket to Paradise could be mistaken for off-colour movie titles, but they are in fact SOCIETY’s best-selling boozy milkshakes, the perfect accompaniment to the on-screen action.

Movie Nights at SOCIETY happen the first Wednesday of every month. The show will commence at 7 pm sharp. To learn more about SOCIETY Dining Lounge, visit: glowbalgroup.com/society.

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CULINARY TAKES CENTRE STAGE AT MISSION HILL FAMILY ESTATE THIS SPRING

Epicurean dinners highlight best of the season and puts the spotlight on celebrated Calgary chefs

West Kelowna, British Columbia (February, 2012) – The Okanagan Spring Wine Festival (May 4 – 13) is a time to savour the season and the region. Executive Winery Chef Matthew Batey is preparing for spring at The Terrace Restaurant (opening May 11) with five-course dinners, five-star dishes and special guest chefs from Calgary.

Spring Epicurean Dinner with CHARCUT Chefs
Saturday May 5 @ 6:30 pm
Executive Winery Chef Matthew Batey welcomes ‘Top Chef Canada’ Finalist Connie DeSousa and Chef John Jackson, co-owners and co-chefs of Calgary’s acclaimed CHARCUT Roast House to Mission Hill Family Estate for a spring menu and evening not to be missed. Some of Western Canada’s most exciting chefs – young, boundary pushers — create locally-inspired cuisine within the Okanagan’s most elegant setting.

“DeSousa and Jackson are stirring the Calgary culinary scene with their evolutionary approach to simple ingredients,” says Batey. “I look forward to welcoming them as fellow chefs and friends to our remarkable restaurant and winery and to blending our talents at this celebration of Spring through food and wine.”

Five courses will be paired with Mission Hill Family Estate wines. $149 (plus tax & gratuity.) Visit missionhillwinery.com/spring or call 250.768.6483 to reserve.

Fresh Tastes of Spring Culinary Theatre Dinner
Wednesday, May 9 @ 6:30 pm
Executive Winery Chef Matthew Batey is anticipating the opportunity to unveil new seasonal dishes at the Okanagan Valley’s sole, interactive culinary theatre. An ultimate dining experience, a state of the art culinary theatre allows guests a front row seat into the dining room. Watch as Chef Batey and his team create dishes that will make your mouth water with anticipation.

Five courses paired with Mission Hill Family Estate wines. $ 139 (plus tax & gratuity.) This intimate event – for just 24 guests – requires early bookings. Visit missionhillwinery.com/spring or call 250.768.6483 to reserve.

About Mission Hill Family Estate
Mission Hill Family Estate is world renowned for its award winning wines, stunning setting and Terrace Restaurant. Honoured as one of the ‘Top Five Winery Restaurants in the World’ by Travel + Leisure magazine, the restaurant and epicurean program is led by Executive Winery Chef Matthew Batey and Chef of The Terrace Chris Stewart. Majestic mountains, scenic lakes and lush orchards encase the winery’s dramatic architecture and culminate in a setting that celebrates wine, food and the arts. With sustainable practices that ensure care for the environment, and a timelessness that respects the von Mandl family’s European heritage, guests experience the height of winemaking in an incomparable lakeside mountaintop winery. For more information visit missionhillwinery.com. Twitter @MissionHillWine and Facebook.com/MissionHillWine.

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AN AFTERNOON GATHERING OF BEARDED GENTLEMEN AT POURHOUSE

“There is always a period when a man with a beard shaves it off. This period does not last. He returns headlong to his beard.” Jean Cocteau

“He that hath a beard is more than a youth, and he that hath no beard is less than a man.” William Shakespeare

Vancouver, BC (for immediate release) Beard appreciation has become a passion for a few of us at Pourhouse. Though few in numbers, our influence is strong. I canʼt help but wonder if perhaps the beard has something to do with that?

In any case, on the last Monday of every month we have decided to invite our bearded comrades to gather with us and just ʻbeʼ. Starting February 27, from 4pm – 7pm, Pourhouse will host An Afternoon Gathering of Bearded Gentlemen. Our Chef will prepare delicious beard friendly snacks (on the house) and our sophisticated bearded bartender will be at your command. Enjoy the company of other bewhiskered chaps. There will be discussions on the benefits of beards, beard maintenance, bearded ladies, as well as other beard and non-beard related gentlemanly topics of conversation. Come enjoy an afternoon of nosh and libations with other men that share your values … men that just want to be men.

STATEMENT OF BELIEFS
WE BELIEVE in beards WE BELIEVE you should have a beard. If you are a lady, you are excluded WE BELIEVE that men were created to have beards WE BELIEVE that if your man has no beard, he should not be your man WE BELIEVE in beards http://www.beardnation.com/?page_id=17

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VINESTARS OF WINE COMING TO VANCOUVER FOR 34TH ANNUAL PLAYHOUSE WINE FESTIVAL

Meet the industry’s top international trendsetters and principal vintners

Vancouver, BC, February 7th, 2012 – The Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival will welcome some of the most progressive winemakers and winery leaders in the world from February 27th to March 4th. Whether pouring tableside at the International Festival Tasting or hosting dinners and seminars, these vin-pioneers are set to satisfy curious neophytes and seasoned oenophiles with personal, one-on-one meet and greets. Appearances from the following wine world celebrities are just a few reasons to partake in the weeklong festivities.

EDUARDO CHADWICK, PRESIDENT, VIÑA ERRÁZURIZ
Chilean wine pioneer and president and owner of Viña Errázuriz in Chile’s Aconcagua region, Eduardo Chadwick was inspired by some of the world’s top wine regions on his quest to produce greater expressions of Chile’s terroir. In July 2005, Decanter magazine recognized Eduardo among the 50 most influential personalities of the wine industry and Viña Errázuriz was described as the quality benchmark from Chile. Eduardo is now the sixth generation to own and run Viña Errázuriz. One of Chadwick’s most historic moments took place in Berlin, January 2004. As part of a blind tasting of first growth wines from French and Italian classic appellations with the best of Errázuriz wines, Eduardo presented his 2000 and 2001 icon wines Viñedo Chadwick, Seña and Don Maximiano Founder’s Reserve. The three wines eclipsed famous houses such as Château Lafite, Château Margaux, Château Latour and Italian cult wines Tignanello, Sassicaia, Solaia and Guado al Tasso. Viñedo Chadwick 2000 and Seña 2001 were placed first and second respectively in what Jancis Robinson recognized as a milestone for the Chilean wine industry, now known as the “Berlin Tasting”.

Meet Eduardo at “Chadwick’s Iconic Quest”, Thursday, March 1st, 2012 http://bit.ly/z15lyU
and at “The Next Star Grape: Syrah”, Friday, March 2nd, 2012 http://bit.ly/wIqVQx

ALVARO ESPINOZA, WINEMAKER, EMILIANA VINEYARDS
Alvaro is a true pioneer and one of Chile’s most widely recognized winemakers. He apprenticed with the Fetzer winemaking family (Fetzer and Bonterra labels) in Mendocino County, the largest organic grape grower in California. Alvaro believes that growing grapes in a natural way produces higher quality fruit and thus better wine. With no unnatural intervention, he says, the Emiliana organic wines labeled “Natura,” respect the conditions of the soils and reflect the terroir where they are grown.

Meet Alvaro at “Excellence of Nature”, Monday, February 27th, 2012 http://bit.ly/wYtRZS
and at “The Next Star Grape: Syrah”, Friday, March 2nd, 2012 http://bit.ly/wIqVQx

CHUCK WAGNER, OWNER AND WINEMAKER, CAYMUS VINEYARDS
At the 2007 Wine Experience hosted by Wine Spectator magazine, Chuck received the Distinguished Service Award given to individuals who have made significant and long-lasting contributions to the wine industry. Luminaries such as Robert Mondavi, Angelo Gaja, Julia Child, Emeril Lagasse, Bob Trinchero, Piero Antinori, and Philippine de Rothschild have also received this honor. In 2006, Wine Spectator magazine rated Caymus Vineyards Special Selection as the Napa Valley’s best Cabernet Sauvignon – having the highest average score of 94.6 since the 1990 vintage. Chuck and his late father, Charlie, shaped the reputation of Caymus by always keeping the focus on quality – in both the vineyard and winery. Caymus continues to be a hands-on, family-owned and operated winery situated in the heart of the Napa Valley.

Meet Chuck at “Caymus Vertical Tasting”, Wednesday, February 29th, 2012 http://bit.ly/xBVeVy

NATHALIE BONHOMME, PROPRIETOR/WINEMAKER, LES VINS BONHOMME
Nathalie Bonhomme brings to the festival a vast knowledge of Spanish wines from the perspective of an ex-pat Canadian. Under the kind tutoring of winemakers Rafael Cambra in Valencia and Miguel Gil in Jumilla she has begun making her own wine.  Her “El Bonhomme” is on the Quebec and British Columbia markets and “El Petit Bonhomme” in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Quebec and, soon to be, Ontario. Nathalie lives in Alfaz de Pi, situated on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, with her husband and youngest daughter.

Meet Nathalie at the International Festival Tasting on Thursday, Friday or Saturday night, March 1st, 2nd and 3rd, 2012 http://bit.ly/vy4y16
and at “Diva(s) at the Met”, Wednesday, February 29th, 2012. http://bit.ly/wMjVUB

ANDRÉS ILABACA, WINEMAKER, SANTA RITA
Since 1996 Andrés has held the position of one of two chief winemakers at Santa Rita. Andrés prefers wines that are succulent and complex with ripe fruit flavours and a mineral complexity. During his tenure, Santa Rita has developed their own proprietary canopy management program to reflect the region’s unique weather and soils. His Santa Rita Pehuén 2007 was recently awarded 91 points in the 2011 Wine Spectator awards.

Meet Andrés at “Celebrate Casa Real”, Friday, March 2nd, 2012. http://bit.ly/zA954f

ANNETTE BERGEVIN, OWNER/PROPRIETOR, BERGEVIN LANE
A fifth-generation Walla Walla native, co-founding Bergevin Lane Vineyards in 2002 was the fulfillment of a long-time dream for Annette, one that started with her father. The Bergevin Lane vision is to create wines with elegance and style that reflect the unique terroir attributes of Washington State and maintain the integrity of each varietal characteristic. It’s an ambitious goal that has been consistently rewarded with high scores, critical praise, and a passionate growing group of wine club members.

Meet Annette at “Diva(s) at the Met”, Wednesday, February 29th, 2012. Learn more: http://bit.ly/wMjVUB

ABOUT THE PLAYHOUSE WINE FESTIVAL
The Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival, Canada’s premier wine show, will run from February 27th to March 4th, 2012. The Playhouse Wine Festival is one of the biggest and oldest wine festival events in the world. In 2012, the Theme Region will be Chile and the Global Focus, Cabernet(s). The Festival features a week of special events including the Bacchanalia Gala Dinner + Auction, wine seminars, wine minglers, winery dinners, and lunches and brunches at fine restaurants and hotels. The Playhouse Wine Festival is produced by the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival Society, which has three mandates: provide an informative, educational and entertaining wine experience for public and trade; be a premier marketing opportunity for the wine industry and Festival partners; and raise funds for the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre Company. Since its inception in 1979, the Festival has raised over $7.5 million to enable Western Canada’s leading theatre company to mount 229 productions and develop extensive community outreach and educational programs. Learn more at www.playhousewinefest.com

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CHEF ROB FEENIE TAKES THE SILVER TITLE AT GOLD MEDAL PLATES WITH HAYWIRE

BC’s own Chef Rob Feenie (Cactus Restaurants Ltd.) won silver at the national Gold Medal Plates competition. Chef Feenie selected Haywire Winery’s Pinot Noir to pair with his dish at the Canadian Culinary Championship’s grand finale.

Chef Rob Feenie, food concept architect for Cactus Restaurants Ltd., captured a national silver medal when he and his team created a Fraser Valley rabbit duo – a rabbit bacon presse, with foie gras boudin, brown butter carrot puree and black truffle jus, accompanied by Haywire’s Pinot Noir at the Canadian Culinary Championships grand finale event for the Gold Medal Plates national competition. As the only competing chef from BC and paired with a BC winery, Chef Feenie took home the silver medal in front of the home crowd on Saturday night. The team from Haywire is especially proud: Chef Feenie also chose Haywire’s Pinot Gris for his dish at the Vancouver Gold Medal Plates competition last fall, where he captured the gold medal.

After nine competitions across the country, the winning chef from each of the nine cities met at the national competition. The winner of the gold and the Canadian Culinary Champion was chef Marc Lepine of Atelier Restaurant in Ottawa.

Winery owner Christine Coletta was “so proud to see Rob Feenie win the silver.” She notes, “it was great to see culinary talent from across Canada in the Okanagan, and to have our Okanagan wine be part of the silver medal win at home was priceless.”

About Haywire:
Haywire is made in Summerland, BC, at Okanagan Crush Pad, where owners Christine Coletta and Steve Lornie established Switchback Vineyard in 2006 and opened the winery in 2011. The wine is the first release from Okanagan Crush Pad wines made by Michael Bartier and consulting Italian viticulturist Alberto Antonini. For more information, visit www.okanagancrushpad.com.

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BIG LOU’S CELEBRATES ‘BEST OF THE CITY’ WIN WITH NEW PROMOTIONS

Thanks to customers with Strathcona Sundays and Wildcard Weekdays

Big Lou’s Butcher Shop recently celebrated one great year in business in Vancouver’s East Side. Since opening, Big Lou’s has worked hard to build a following for its wide selection of ethically and sustainably raised meats, custom craft butchering and delicious deli sandwiches.

Recently, year two for Big Lou’s got off to a superb start with the arrival of a envelope from WEVancouver (formerly the Westender) which contained the Gold Medal for Best Butcher in the 15th Annual Best of Vancouver Awards. First place!

“We’re incredibly proud to win this award after only one year in business,” said Big Lou’s Butcher Shop partner Allan Bosomworth. “We want to say thanks to everyone who’s stopped by during our first year and especially those who took time to vote for us in the Best of Vancouver Awards.”

To thank customers for the great first year and the votes which propelled Big Lou’s to the Gold Medal, Big Lou’s Butcher Shop is launching two weekly customer appreciation days: Strathcona Sundays and Wildcard Weekdays.

Strathcona Sundays offers locals and neighbours a 10% weekly discount on all purchases over $20 (not including sandwiches) just by showing their local ID at the cash register. It’s a little extra thanks to local customers whether they’re picking something up for the Sunday dinner table or getting a head start on the week’s lunches.

As the name implies, Wildcard Weekdays will be a little more unpredictable than the Sunday special as each week we’ll announce a deal via Facebook or Twitter. One week it could be a flat percentage off, the next a discount on a specific item. Make sure to follow our social media to get news of the weekly deals. encourage friends to watch for the weekly deals.

Big Lou’s Butcher Shop is located at 269 Powell Street. To find out more about the full range of products and services like butchery classes, private bouchery dining in the shop, catering and more, visit www.biglousbutchershop.com or call 604-566-9229.

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UCOMING EVENTS AT LEGACY LIQUOR STORE

VODKA BLIND TASTING SEMINAR PART 1
Wednesday, 7 to 9 pm   Feb 22, 2012

$25/ticket, 36 tickets available
Are all vodkas alike? What could possibly be the difference? Let us show you in the first part of this blind tasting seminar series. Over the next 3 months we will review and taste vodka’s with different bases, flavour profile, price point and origin. Legacy has the largest vodka selection in Vancouver so let us help you discover your new favourite one.

ZUBROWKA BISON GRASS VODKA & KALE & NORI PRESENT:
BITTERED SLING BISTRO
Wednesday, 7:00pm – 9:30pm   Feb 29, 2012
Feb 29th Guest Bartender: Gerry Jobe, Raudz Regional Table (Kelowna)
$60/ticket which includes gratuity and HST – 32 tickets available

We are proud to introduce you to “Bittered Sling Bistro” – a bi-monthly food and cocktail pairing competition dedicated to pushing the boundaries of cocktail craft.
Click Here to View the Menu

For more info, visit: legacyliquorstore.com

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HAMILTON STREET GRILL IS HOSTING A 2012 OSCAR PARTY!

On Sunday, February 26th enjoy a fun night of Academy Awards festivities at Yaletown’s Hamilton Street Grill. Indulge in gourmet popcorn, classic retro canapés and cocktails as you take in the red carpet and the awards ceremony on large flat screens. Book a table for all your friends, mix and mingle with others or sit at the bar. Prizes, games and contests will fill in the commercials, and for those who like to dress up, there’s a prize for best Hollywood costume.

Hamilton Street Grill Oscar Party, Sunday February 26th
4pm – 6pm – $20 per person

$20 per person includes a ballot*, with a chance to win prizes, an Oscar night “Golden Cocktail”( image & recipe available ), light canapés and your own bag of house popped gourmet popcorn.

4pm on – Come early and fill in your ballot during the red carpet walk. Prizes for most correct “and the Oscar goes to”; dark horse winners; best costume and a special category for Canadian Oscar winners will be awarded throughout the night  as well as posted on our Facebook page.

5pm on – The grill is on and tonight’s special is Steak Oscar! Certified Angus Beef topped with fresh crab meat, asparagus and covered with béarnaise sauce or choose from a complete menu selection of appetizers, grilled fish and steak dishes.

*Ballot to be filled in prior to first awards category at approximately 5:30pm

Reserve your Oscar party table by calling 604-331-1511 or reserve on line at www.hamiltonstreetgrill.com

Hamilton Street Grill
1009 Hamilton Street
Vancouver, BC
info@hamiltonstreetgrill.com
www.hamiltonstreetgrill.com
Lunch: Monday – Friday 11:30 am – 2:30 pm
Dinner: seven nights at 5:00 pm
Transit stop – Canada Line – Yaletown

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EXECUTIVE CHEF NED BELL IS KEYNOTE SPEAKER AT SPEED-DATING EVENT FOR FARMERS & CHEFS

Tuesday, February 14, 2012 (Vancouver, BC) – Local food businesses in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley are signing up to Meet Your Maker where local food producers and local food buyers meet, get business and grow. Scheduled for Monday February 27 at the Croatian Cultural Centre in Vancouver, this local event is modeled after Portland, Oregon’s very successful ‘Farmer-Chef Connection.’

This year, keynote speakers will include a local farmer and a local chef. Jerry Gelderman from Gelderman Farms provides sustainably raised, quality pork products sold at farmers’ markets, various Fraser Valley stores, and their own online store. Gelderman also sells to select chefs. Four Seasons Hotel Executive Chef Ned Bell is a keen supporter of fresh, local ingredients. Bell also has a keen sense of support for community and was instrumental in urging FarmFolk CityFolk to bring their annual fundraiser, Feast of Fields, to the Okanagan region where Bell co-owns Cabana Bar & Grille in Kelowna. Now in Vancouver, Bell is interested in learning more about Vancouver’s proposed food hub, New City Market.

“These people are passionate about local food and Meet Your Maker is where that passion really comes alive. It’s a long-term investment in our food future,” says FarmFolk’s Bonita Magee, “and if Vancouver wants to be the greenest city by 2020, we’re going to have to increase local food production.” Sponsored by Vancity and Canadian Linen & Uniform, the event is co-organized by FarmFolk CityFolk and Local Food First. Tara McDonald, Executive Director of the Vancouver Farmers Markets and Local Food First committee lead, adds “Meet Your Maker provides a great opportunity for small businesses to connect with suppliers, gain access to niche products, and scale up their businesses by going local.” She knows all about demand as she has seen Vancouver’s farmers’ markets grow in the city.

Suzanne Fielden, co-owner of Rocky Mountain Flatbread Company in Vancouver says “Meet Your Maker is a much needed event that allows restauranteurs to meet urban and rural local farmers face-to-face and chat (a very difficult thing for busy farmers & restauranteurs.) The result is more local food featured on local restaurant menus and long-term relationships with farmers to buy their beautiful and delicious produce. A must go event.”

Likewise, the event has been beneficial for farmers, too, including Nicola von Rosen and Dennis Clausen from Outlawmeats in Clinton, BC. “Thanks to Meet Your Maker, we are now exclusively selling our lamb at Whole Foods Markets in Vancouver. I loved the casual and fun atmosphere at the event. I love how supportive our city folk are of our farming folk. The moral support is a tremendous boost when the day to day burdens of trying to make a living farming are overwhelming. I love how I attended Meet Your Maker just out of curiosity but was gifted with an unexpected wonderful new relationship with the Forager for Whole Foods Market, Denise Breyley.”

This year, organizers have a new speed-dating format that will enable participants to connect with those they really need to connect with. Last year, the event generated more than $268,000 in business, and it’s growing. This year, organizers are urging more local chefs to come to Meet Your Maker and make new connections. Businesses interested in attending can find more information and a registration link at www.getlocalbc.org.

Blind tasting reviews are a fun game to play with restaurant sommeliers and wine nerds across town. I pour a glass from a mystery bottle and ask them to review it blind. By not knowing what the wine is or who represents it, hopefully, an honest-no-bs-review is achieved.

Come inside and read the review of our next contestant…

^ Erin Chambers, manager of Vij's

Wine reviewed by Erin Chambers, manager of Vij’s. Erin grew up in Vancouver and has been at Vij’s for four years, where she also runs the wine education program for servers. She has a diploma from the International Sommelier Guild and is currently pursuing her Wine and Spirit Education Trust Diploma. She’s no stranger to the fruits of the vine.

Hecht & Bannier Saint Chinian AOC 2009
ABV: 13.5%
Category: Mainly Syrah (Grenache, Mourvèdre)
Country/Region: Saint Chinian AOC, Languedoc Roussillon, France
Winemaker: hechtbannier.com

Appearance: High intensity ruby with a hint of purple and a pale ruby rim.

Nose: Clean with medium-plus intensity of blackberries, red licorice, black pepper, violets and leather.
Palate: Dry with medium-plus structural elements including body, acidity, alcohol and soft tannins. Medium flavour intensity of blackberries, sweet oak, black pepper and violets. Medium length.

Assessment of quality: Good quality wine. Well balanced between the fruit concentration and the tannic structure, although it shows more complexity on the nose than the palate. Drink now or will hold two to three years. A straightforward, quaffable wine.

Further comments upon revealing the wine: Reasonable value for quality. Has typicity of the syrah varietal. Will benefit from decanting. It needs food – preferably something rich and fatty such as braised lamb or cassoulet.

Availability: Available at BC Liquor Stores.

Pricing: $30

Blind tasting reviews are a fun game to play with restaurant sommeliers and wine nerds across town. I pour a glass from a mystery bottle and ask them to review it blind.  By not knowing what the wine is or who represents it, hopefully, an honest-no-bs-review is achieved.

Come inside and read the review of our next contestant…

^ Colin Davidson from the wine team at Hawksworth Restaurant

Wine reviewed by Colin Davidson, a member of the wine team at Hawksworth Restaurant. Originally from P.E.I., Colin began his wine education in Ottawa, earning a Sommelier Diploma at Algonquin College. He continued his studies with the International Sommelier Guild Diploma, became a Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers, and then a French Wine Scholar. He is currently pursuing his Wine and Spirit Education Trust Diploma.  In short, he knows a thing or two about wine.

Canepa Novisimo Cabernet Sauvignon 2010

ABV: 13%

Category: Cabernet Sauvignon
Country/Region: Central Valley, Chile

Winemaker: www.canepawines.cl

Appearance: Bright ruby of moderate intensity.

Nose: Pronounced nose with red fruit, earth, green pepper and fresh herbs.

Palate: Dry, medium acidity, medium-plus body and alcohol with soft, powdery tannins.  Moderate-plus intensity of flavours that include red fruit, earth and sweet spice. Medium length.

Assessment of quality: Good quality, although a little hot on the finish, but otherwise balanced. Showing moderate complexity with good structure and length.

Further comments upon revealing the wine: Reasonable value, showing typicity for a Chilean Cabernet at this price point.

Availability: Available at Firefly Fine Wines and Ales and other private liquor stores.
Pricing: $14-16

From the official press release…

ISLAND WINERIES OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

Edited by Gary Hynes and from the contributors of EAT Magazine: Larry Arnold, Jeff Bateman, Kathryn McAree, Julie Pegg, Treve Ring, Adem Tepedelen, and Rebecca Wellman

Island Wineries of British Columbia will now go on to compete for “Best in the World.” Awards will be presented on March 6, 2012 in Paris, France.

A collaborative effort from the writers of EAT Magazine, Island Wineries of British Columbia is your guide to a growing wine culture and the food movement that accompanies it. Starting with the history behind the region’s wine production, this book is an intimate conversation with local wine producers—their individual stories, their most memorable creations, and where you can find their beautiful wineries.

Complete with maps and suggested wine tasting excursions, Island Wineries of British Columbia also explores the Islands’ meaderies, cideries, fruit wines, artisan distilleries and craft beers. Some of the region’s most talented chefs provide recipes that emphasize the local ingredients and suggest exquisite pairings of wine and food.

“A wonderful, groundbreaking, it’s-about-time book.”—Jurgen Gothe, Wine Columnist, The Georgia Straight

“An accessible and elegant must-have book for anyone interested in Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands wine.”  —Garth Eichel, Times Colonist

“An interesting, well-produced and intelligent book.”—January Magazine

Gary Hynes, a former sommelier, chef, and innkeeper, is the founder and editor of EAT Magazine, a bi-monthly publication that celebrates food and drink in British Columbia. Gary and the team at EAT worked together to create Island Wineries of British Columbia from their shared knowledge of excellent wine and bc’s unique culinary scene. Please visit eatmagazine.ca.

To order a copy of the book, click here

I have been playing a wine game with restaurant sommeliers and wine nerds across town where I show up with a mystery bottle and ask them to review it blind. By not knowing what the wine is or who represents it, hopefully, an honest-no-bs-review is achieved.

Come inside and read the review of our next contestant…

^ Mr. Pino Posteraro, chef and owner of Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill and Enoteca.

2008 Rodney Strong Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
ABV: 14.5%
Category: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region/Country: Sonoma County, California USA
Winemaker: www.rodneystrong.com
Agent: Mark Anthony
Varietal Character/Distinctiveness: ~ 3.5
Expression: 3.5 ~ “A bit alcoholic at first.”
Complexity: 3.5 ~ “Quite complex and round.”
Balance: 4 ~ “Well-balanced.”
Value: 4 ~ “Great value.”
Score: 18.5/25

Availability: Available at select private liquor stores.
Pricing: $30-35

Editor’s Note: Pino has a remarkable palate; after a few careful swirls and sips, he was able to discern the varietal, region, year, and alcohol % without seeing the bottle. Well done!

Raising the Steaks: The GLOWBAL COLLECTION opens Black+Blue October 29; Painted Rock in residence at Sidecut Four Seasons Resort Whistler; Guest Chef Dinner: CinCin’s Chef Todd Howard welcomes celebrity chef Mark McEwan; Jadot wine dinner at Hawksworth; Invest in gold… again: Portfolio 2009 release; Marquis Wine Cellars presents: The wines of South Africa; New Sunday night jazz line-up at Pourhouse; 10 year anniversary cask party at Dockside; Special October events at Legacy Liquor Store; Chef Corbin Tomaszeksi discusses the evolution of sustainable food in the food industry; “Bridesmaids” Foxy Friday at Yew Restaurant + Bar; Put your chopsticks together for the first Signature Dish Dine Out Festival; The Donnelly Group elevates food and beverage programs; Single Malts in Stanley Park

RAISING THE STEAKS: THE GLOWBAL COLLECTION OPENS BLACK+BLUE OCTOBER 29

Vancouver, BC (October, 2011):     Black+Blue, a new steak-centric restaurant by The GLOWBAL COLLECTION, opens Saturday, October 29. Proprietors Emad Yacoub and Shannon Bosa Yacoub share a passion for classic-style dining. Marking the company’s biggest and boldest offering to date, Black+Blue signals a throw-back to ‘The Golden Age’ of hospitality.

From juicy steaks to crisp service, classic cocktails to sumptuous décor, Black + Blue brings decadence and glamour back on the Vancouver dining scene.

“The concept for Black+Blue echoes the lively and popular steakhouses of the past along with the nostalgic pleasure of experiencing a stand-out meal,” says Yacoub. “The twist is that from the moment you enter the restaurant, guests are dazzled by the tangible energy and gracious West Coast hospitality our GLOWBAL team tables like no others in the city.”

Executive Chef Dennis Peckham, formerly of sister restaurant COAST, with past positions at French Laundry and Charlie Trotter’s, has crafted a menu where steak reigns. Working alongside Chef Peckham is Chef de Cuisine Jason Labahn, from famed Las Vegas steakhouses: Fix at Bellagio; Brand at Monte Carlo; and Alex at the Wynn.

Taking a cue from the restaurant’s name, whether you prefer black or blue, all cuts are prepared to perfection. The range of offerings is also impressive with an extensive selection of prime cuts available – from Wagyu to US and Canadian Prime. Hand-selected exclusive boutique products are also offered.

In addition to steak, guests can expect to be wooed with a diverse mix of seafood classics: Oysters Rockefeller; Shrimp Cocktail; and Salmon Coulibiac. Tableside Caesar salads and shaker cocktails add charm.

As for the aesthetic, BOX Interior Design is behind the impressive 240-seat, three-level space design. Gold accents pop against a palette of rich tones to highlight classic-steakhouse finishes in velvet and leather.

Striking details include: the meat cooler’s Himalayan Rock Salt ‘Wall’ where the salt acts as a canvas for the aged and cured meats on display; the glass-walled elevator, elegantly transporting guests between the three floors; a custom designed lighting installation suspended over the central bar from famed UK industrial designer Tom Dixon; and the private and semi-private dining rooms boasting smoked tobacco wall panelling, high coffered ceilings and granite-clad fireplaces.

Black+Blue’s expansive roof-top garden is slated to open Spring 2012.

Located at 1032 Alberni Street, the restaurant will be open for lunch and dinner Monday to Friday, and for dinner only Saturday and Sunday. Call 604.637.0777 for reservations.

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NEWS FROM THE GLOWBAL COLLECTION

Vancouver, BC (October 21, 2011): There is no shortage of events happening within The GLOWBAL COLLECTION of Restaurants this fall. Check out the latest updates below for all the appetizing details and keep up with GLOWBAL news through The GLOWBAL COLLECTION Blog, here: blog.glowbalgroup.com/.

Taste of Yaletown, October 19 – 30
The GLOWBAL COLLECTION is proud to once again participate in Taste of Yaletown, October 19 – 30, offering diners enticing three-course menus at both glowbal grill steaks & satay and SOCIETY Dining Lounge. Each year, the fun foodie festival offers diners the chance to discover or re-visit a wide selection of Yaletown-based eateries with three-course menus in the $25, $35 or $45 price range. Giving back to the community, Taste of Yaletown will donate a portion of the profits to the Greater Vancouver Food Bank.

glowbal’s $35 menu offers the following: Starters – ahi tuna carpaccio or roasted tomato soup; Mains – truffle dusted arctic char or duo of lamb; Dessert – chocolate fondant with flourless sponge cake, bitter chocolate mousse, and cherry compote.

SOCIETY’s $25 menu offers the following: Starters – house smoked salmon twinkies or butternut squash and pumpkin soup; Mains – seafood pasta or “SOCIETY” buttermilk fried chicken; Dessert – cinnamon sugar-coated churros with bourbon anglaise.

Customer Appreciation Days, November 1 – 10
The GLOWBAL COLLECTION is showing love to its valued clientele and will offer a discount of 25% off the food portion of each bill to brunch and lunch-time diners, November 1 – 10, at glowbal grill, COAST, Italian Kitchen, Trattoria, SOCIETY, and the newest GLOWBAL location – Black+Blue. Talk about afternoon delight!

Early Christmas Party Bookings
Get into the yuletide spirit a little earlier this year and save yourself a bundle. Holiday revellers looking to celebrate the season in advance of December, are invited to take advantage of The GLOWBAL COLLECTION’s early Christmas party booking discount of 25% for parties happening throughout the month of November. *For parties in November only. Discount applies to food portion of the bill. Guests must book a set menu. For more information or to book a function in November, please visit blog.glowbalgroup.com/.

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PAINTED ROCK IN RESIDENCE AT SIDECUT FOUR SEASONS RESORT WHISTLER

Whistler, BC – Canada’s only five-diamond property has paired up with British Columbia’s most talked-about new winery to stage a weekend of luxurious wining and dining for Cornucopia 2011.

The team at Four Seasons Resort Whistler is thrilled to host Painted Rock Estate Winery for two wine-fuelled dinners at Sidecut restaurant on November 11 and 12.

Painted Rock in Residence at Sidecut will feature proprietor John Skinner, as he walks guests through the award-winning premium wines from one of the Okanagan’s brightest stars.

Though a newcomer to the industry, its first vintage released in 2009, Painted Rock’s impact on the BC wine landscape is impressive. Painted Rock’s philosophy of quality without compromise is aligned with Sidecut Executive Chef Scott Dolbee’s vision of a top line guest experience in redefined Steakhouse style.

Beginning with a reception at 6:00pm, diners with have the opportunity ask their wine questions to John Skinner. A group table dining format will be offered in the spirit of fostering wine and food dialogue along with a four-course ‘family style’ dining experience of Sidecut specialities.

Dinner is priced at $195 per person, is limited to 40 seats per night and includes all wine pairings and gratuity.

Four Seasons Resort Whistler is also offering a two-night Cornucopia package. For $780, couples will enjoy two nights in Deluxe King accommodations, valet parking and the Painted Rock in Residence at Sidecut dinner for two on either November 11 or 12. Click here to make a reservation.

Sidecut will also be participating in the November 10 “House Party” and November 11 and 12, “Crush” events.

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GUEST CHEF DINNER: CINCIN’S CHEF TODD HOWARD WELCOMES CELEBRITY CHEF MARK MCEWAN

Celebrated author, chef and television personality, Mark McEwan, launches ‘Fabbrica’ at CinCin

When: Tuesday, November 1st  |  6:30 p.m.
Where: CinCin Ristorante, 1154 Robson Street, Vancouver

Star of ‘The Heat’ and head judge of ‘Top Chef Canada’, McEwan enjoys a coast-to-coast following. In his new cookbook, Fabbrica, he turns his very able hand to the gusto of Italian cooking.

On November 1st, we welcome Chef McEwan to CinCin, for a luscious four-course dinner prepared by Chef Todd Howard. Guests will enjoy antipasti and wine before being seated for this very special Italian feast inspired by the flavours of Fabbrica!

—

Menu

RECEPTION
house cured trout, shaved beetroot and balsamic caviar
organic squash cappelletti, black truffle and brown butter
duck tart with bc porcinis and walla walla onion

adriano adami, bosco di gica, prosecco di valdobbiadene

DINNER
POPLI E CECI
wood oven grilled octopus with chickpeas and salami
PAGE 32

GNOCCHI CON RAGU D’AGNELLO E RICOTTA ALLA MENTA
house made gnocchi with lamb bolognese and mint ricotta
PAGE 141

TROTA CON VONGOLE E SALSICCIA
steelhead trout with clams and italian sausage
PAGE 167

COSTOLETTE DI MANZO CON POLENTA
braised short ribs with polenta
PAGE 194

CONTORNI FOR THE TABLE

BARBABIETOLE ARROSTE CON PISTACCHI
wood oven roasted beets with sicilian pistachios
PAGE 236

DOLCI
TIRAMISU DI FABBRICA
PAGE 258

TICKETS ARE $99 PER PERSON.
Inclusive of reception food and reception wine, four course dinner and a signed copy of Mark McEwan’s new cookbook, Fabbrica. Kindly note that beverages at table and gratuities are additional.

Call Barbara-jo’s Books to Cooks at 604-688-6755. www.bookstocooks.com

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JADOT WINE DINNER WITH JACQUES LARDIÈRE
Sunday October 23rd, 6pm
Vancouver, B.C., (October 20, 2011) Hawksworth Restaurant presents a rare opportunity to join celebrated winemaker Jacques Lardière of Maison Louis Jadot, for an intimate winemaker dinner in Hawksworth’s first floor York Room on Sunday October 23rd.

Executive Chef David Hawksworth and Chef de Cuisine Kristian Eligh have created a six-course tasting menu to complement the select Jadot wines, including several from the acclaimed 2009 vintage. Among the highlights, a Clos de Vougeot 2002 poured from a Magnum will accompany the main course.

“Jacques is a winemaking legend and one who will soon retire, so this really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” declared Hawksworth’s Wine Director Terry Threlfall. Threlfall adds “2009 was an exceptional vintage and we are really excited to be able to taste so many 1er and Grand Crus; a very special evening indeed.”

The Jadot Dinner with Jacques Lardière will take place on Sunday Oct 23rd at Hawksworth Restaurant, The York Room at 6pm and just a few places remain. Cost per person is $250, Inclusive of tax and gratuities. For reservations please telephone: (604) 673-7000

Bios, menu and wine selections available upon request.

For more info, visit: hawksworthrestaurant.com

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PORTFOLIO 2009 RELEASE – INVEST IN GOLD…AGAIN

We are pleased to announce the release of the 2009 vintage of Portfolio, our flagship Bordeaux style blend. While the wine can age easily 7-10 years, it is already showing well, recently winning a GOLD medal at the BC Wine Awards. This is the 2nd year in a row that Portfolio has taken the top award at this competition. Time to invest in some precious metals!

In any new vintage, blending must showcase the strongest varietals and in 2009, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc came from behind to be the darlings. Thus, we’ve rebalanced the Portfolio this year to be a blend of 36% Merlot, 27% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 14% Malbec and 1% Petit Verdot.

After 19 months in barrel and 5 months in bottle, the resulting wine has a nose of dark berries, tobacco, clove and hint of dark chocolate. The extra Cab Sauv and Cab Franc brings a deeper earthiness with concentrated black currant and dried cherry flavours, and a solid structure with silky tannins and a long finish.

Price: $42

Order now through our online order form, or call the winery at 250.493.8466. A limited number of Magnums and Double Magnums also available.

Join our Preferred Share Wine Club to receive regular wine dividends.

For more info, visit: laughingstock.ca

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MARQUIS WINE CELLARS PRESENTS: THE WINES OF SOUTH AFRICA

Marquis Wine Cellars has long thought that the wines of South Africa are some of the most compelling and distinct wines in the world, and are a segment of the wine world that is grossly under-represented in this market. To counter that, intrepid store manager, Kevin McKinnon traveled to South Africa earlier this year in search of all the best South Africa has to offer. His trip was a huge success, and Marquis Wine Cellars has secured a huge amount of the finest producers available. Along with a wide selection of wines, we’ll be hosting some South African themed events and tastings. And now, the booklet is ready, and the events are set. To read all about ‘the best of the cape‘ here, and event details are below. The wines will be arriving in store throughout the course of the month, and if you’re interested pre-ordering any of the wines, feel free to contact Kevin, at kevin@marquis-wines.com

Discover the “Best of the Cape” Tasting, featuring the finest wines from South Africa
This is your chance to taste through the Cape! If you read about them in the booklet, we’ll have it open to taste. Also in attendance will be Simon Back from Backsberg Winery who will be pouring his wines and offering further insight into the wines.

This is a free tasting, but we will be collecting donations for the Rick Hanson Institute
Wednesday, November 2nd from 5:30 to 8:30 pm
Vancouver Lawn Tennis & Badminton Club, 1630 West 15th Avenue

You can register on-line for the event here

Marquis Wine Cellars presents…
The wines of South Africa dinner at Hawksworth Restaurant
This is certain to be an inspired night of incredible food & wine at Vancouver’s highly acclaimed Hawksworth Restaurant (recently named ‘Canada’s best new restaurant). Working closely with the chef, we’ve crafted the perfect menu to compliment the superb food with a selection of some our finest South African wines.

Wednesday, November 16th, 2011 from 7 – 9:30 pm
$135.00 each (all inclusive)
Hawksworth Restaurant
801 West Georgia Street, Vancouver BC
Located at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, corner of Howe & Georgia

*Tickets are now on sale, and can be purchased by calling the store at 604-684-0445

For more info, visit: marquis-wines.com

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NEW SUNDAY NIGHT JAZZ LINE-UP AT POURHOUSE

Come enjoy the smooth sounds of jazz over a delicious meal and a cocktail (or two) every Sunday night at Pourhouse Vancouver in Gastown.

1st and 3rd Sunday of each month – Russell Sholberg and the Sweet Pea Trio
2nd Sunday of each month – Paul Doherty
4th Sunday of each month – The Gord White Trio

For more info, visit: pourhousevancouver.com

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PINK ELEPHANT THAI LAUNCHES NEW EXPANDED MENU WITH MASS APPEAL

(Vancouver, BC) October 17, 2011 – Desmond Chen, president of Thai House Restaurant Group, is pleased to announce that his newest restaurant, Pink Elephant Thai, is launching a new expanded menu with mass appeal, starting October 18.

“We’ve learned a few things since opening Pink Elephant Thai in April,” said Chen. “One of our observations is that many guests are looking for their go-to Thai favorites, and our original menu didn’t cater to this group. Sure we had green curry and Pad Thai, but they were served with fish balls and crab instead of chicken and shrimp. We still offer the many of the more adventurous options but now they are positioned alongside some more familiar choices as well.”

Plus Pink Elephant Thai has taken it one step further for those who want to take the guess work out of ordering. The menu begins with both New World and Traditional combination dinners for parties of two to six, as well options for shared appetizer platters. Several of executive chef Parichat Poomkajorn’s standout dishes are Peeg Gai Yaad Sai, delectable boneless chicken wings stuffed with vegetables and glass noodles; Briased Pork Hock, marinated and slow cooked with Thai herbs on a bed of spinach; Grilled Free Range Duck Breast, served with spicy garlic and chili sauce; and How Mok, traditional Thai steamed egg curry with fish filet, tiger prawns, sweet basil served in a banana leaf.

Pink Elephant Thai features a popular communal table running the length of the restaurant, as well as oversize booths, and a chef’s table to catch all the kitchen action. Overall, the look is ultra sleek with gleaming white, cool grey, polished black, and lots of the restaurant’s signature pink. Creative cocktails, imported beers including Thailand’s Singha, along with a varied and well priced wine list, all pair nicely with the menu that ranges from just a touch to totally spicy.

Pink Elephant Thai is located at 1152 Alberni Street open seven days a week, from 11:30am through midnight, serving lunch, dinner, cocktails, plus everything in between. For reservations phone 604.646.8899. or for more information please visit PinkElephantThai.com, follow @pinkethai on Twitter, and become a fan on Facebook.com/pinkelephantthai.

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DOCKSIDE 10TH ANNIVERSARY CASK PARTY ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27

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SPECIAL EVENTS IN OCTOBER AT LEGACY LIQUOR STORE

BENTON BROTHERS CHEESE AND WINE PAIRING
Wednesday, 7 to 8 pm
Oct 26, 2011
*Harvest Table Event

Come and enjoy some of BC’s finest wines with the cheeses from all over the world. A guided tasting with five or six cheeses and selected wines. Learn which pairings work and which don’t, what to serve at your own wine and cheese party and what accompanies a fantastic cheese platter.
$30 a ticket, 12 seats available.

Tickets available for purchase online and in store. Sorry, no tickets are available at the door.

WOODWARD CANYON SEMINAR
Thursday, 7 to 8 pm
Oct 27, 2011
*Harvest Table

Join Thomas Woodley from Woodward Canyon as he hosts a sit down seminar all about Washington as a wine growing region and the history of Woodward Canyon.
Located in the Walla Walla Valley appellation of Washington State, Woodward Canyon Winery was started in 1981 by Rick Small and his wife, Darcey Fugman-Small.

Since that time, the winery has consistently produced premium, award-winning Cabernet Sauvignons and Merlots as well as Chardonnays. We will be sampling the Chardonnay (96 points, Wine Enthusiast), Artist’s Series Cabernet Sauvignon, Barbera, Merlot (95 points, Wine Enthusiast). During the seminar light food will be provided (Cheese, Charcuterie).

$15/head 30 seats available. Tickets available online and in store.

GLENFARCLAS DINNER WITH GEORGE GRANT
Sunday 6 to 8 pm
Oct 30, 2011
*Harvest Table Event

George Grant, the 6th Generation of the Grant Family to run and manage the Glenfarclas Distillery, is coming to Legacy to host a dinner at the Harvest Table! Join us for a very special evening full of wonderful food, whisky and great conversation. Each whisky is paired with a course from The Modern Chef Catering.
Try the following with us!
105 Cask Strength
15yr old
17yr old
25yr old
40 yr old
92 Family Cask
Only 15 seats left! Purchase your ticket today!

$60/ticket. Sorry, no ticket sales are available the day of or at the door. We apologize but there is currently no vegetarian option for this meal.

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CHEF CORBIN TOMASZEKSI DISCUSSES THE EVOLUTION OF SUSTAINABLE FOOD IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY

Canada’s holistic nutritionists combine their knowledge and experience with local and celebrity chefs to create Feast of Flavour: Vancouver’s Holistic Food Experience

October 17, 2011 (Vancouver, BC.) — Canadians looking for new inspiration and discovery about food traditions from the past and the unique flavours of foods we love need look no further: CAHN-Pro’s board certified holistic nutritionists are inviting Vancouverites  to come and taste mouth-watering foods, wine and beer, savoury and sweet dishes, all prepared by local chefs, holistic nutritionists and local and /or organic food companies at Feast of Flavour: Vancouver’s Holistic Food Event, a fundraiser to support the research projects of CAHN-Pro.

Join celebrity chef Corbin Tomaszeski as he discusses the changes to the foods industry,  where a more sustainable and traditional focus for foods has evolved in the last few years. “Fifteen years ago, it was all about putting art on a plate. Today, it is about slower cooking methods, comfort foods and the sustainability of our food supply” says Corbin Tomaszeski, keynote speaker

“As holistic nutritionists, we want to share this perspective and our knowledge about food with Canadians in a whole new way,” says Debbie Scallion, holistic nutritionist and director, CAHN-Pro. “Tasting and experiencing the flavours of fresh, local dishes, prepared using traditional techniques offers a great opportunity to talk about what our ancestors intuitively knew about preparing and preserving foods to maximize both the flavour, health benefits and the sustainability.”

“There are many food traditions from the past that are still part of our lives today that research now shows have benefits. Through the Feast of Flavour, we hope Canadians discover a new appreciation for their family’s own traditions and learn new ones that help them enjoy their love of food and fit easily into their lifestyle ,” adds Scallion. Foods like macqui berry, chia, wine, chocolate, kombucha, grass-fed beef and many more will be featured, highlighting their flavour, benefits and easy ways to incorporated them in to delicious dishes and beverages.

Chef Jonathan Chovancek, co-owner of Vancouver based “Kale & Nori Culinary Arts” boutique catering company joins CAHN-Pro Feast of Flavour in Vancouver, providing elegant, ethical and beautiful hors d’oeuvres for the expo’s featured ingredients this coming weekend.

“Chef Jonathan’s ability to create a canapé that showcases a specific healthy product, directly assists in the explanation coming from the Holistic Nutritionist. It’s easier for people to understand the ingredient when it’s featured in something delicious. Chef Jonathan’s attention to detail ensure that the primary ingredient is the focal point of the canapé. He is renowned for his globally inspired cuisine, using local and healthy ingredients, and the menu looks incredible.” says Lauren Mote, co-owner of Kale & Nori.

CAHN-Pro is also hosting Feast of Flavour, Toronto’s Holistic Food Event with Chef Mark McEwan, Oct 23 and  Feast of Flavour, Ottawa’s Holistic Food Event, Nov 5 with Chef Lynn Crawford to continue this discussion.

Tickets: $87.00
Discount Code for 20% off: CAHNPRO
October 22, 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm,  keynote starts at 12:00 pm
Croatian Cultural Centre

For ticket information: http://www.cahnpro.org/feastofflavour/feastofflavourvancouver.html or call 1-866-210-2137

About CAHN-Pro (Canadian Association of Holistic Nutrition Professionals)
CAHN-Pro is Canada’s holistic nutrition board certification association dedicated to demonstrating high quality standards and leadership across our profession. As a non-profit organization, CAHN-Pro works to educate the public about healthy eating and lifestyle habits, prevention and natural approaches to health, while expanding the recognition of our profession. All proceeds from Feast of Flavour will help fund research projects and education programs conducted by CAHN-Pro including weight loss, peri-natal and pediatric nutrition. Our goal is to help the public find the solutions that work best for them and allow them to continue to enjoy the food they love.

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“BRIDESMAIDS” FOXY FRIDAY AT YEW RESTAURANT + BAR

Crème de la Crème “BRIDESMAIDS” FOXY FRIDAY
Friday, October 28, 2011
5:30pm to 7:00pm

On Friday, October 28, all bridesmaids past and present are invited to enjoy a fabulous cocktail and some tasty bites on the house at YEW restaurant + bar. The catch? Just a tiny one… bridesmaids’ dresses must be worn to enjoy the complimentary drink and cuisine and the more fabulous and outrageous the better.

Friday evening on Halloween weekend is the perfect time to show up “in costume” with some friends.

There are two other great incentives to dress up and show up at YEW on Friday, October 28:

PRIZES:

• Win dinner at YEW restaurant + bar + One Night’s Accommodation at Four Seasons Vancouver – Awarded for “Most Outrageous Bridesmaid’s Dress” (valued at $400)

• Win ‘The Ultimate Bridesmaids’ Tea Party’ – A Decadent Bridal Tea Party for Ten at YEW restaurant + bar (valued at $400). All qualifying bridesmaids need to be present at Crème de la Crème Grand Wedding Showcase on November 6 to be eligible to win the “Ultimate Bridesmaids’ Tea Party.”

Crème de la Crème, Vancouver’s best wedding showcase will be held at Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver on November 6. Think glorious gowns, decadent décor, fabulous flowers, a knock-out fashion show, and delicious food and drink from the talented top chefs at YEW. Celebrity wedding designer to-the-stars, Preston Bailey will be leaving his New York City perch to share the latest and greatest in wedding trends with attendees.

YEW restaurant + bar has been enjoying Crème de la Crème-themed Foxy Fridays throughout October. Every Friday in October from 2:30pm to close, guests of YEW bar wearing pink are treated to complimentary Crème de la Crème YEW bites. A selection of pink cocktails and bubbles will be on the menu and tasty rose-hued appies and sweets will be served to pink-clad patrons.

For full details on this and our Design the Wedding Cake of your Dreams contest click here.

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PUT YOUR CHOPSTICKS TOGETHER FOR THE FIRST SIGNATURE DISH DINE OUT FESTIVAL

(Vancouver, B.C.) – Opportunities to sample exclusive menus at the city’s finest dining spots have been fascinating to food enthusiasts and culinary travelers alike. With goals to solidify Vancouver and Richmond’s top position for Chinese dining destinations outside of China, Chinese Restaurant Awards celebrates the excellence of local Chinese culinary scene with the Signature Dish Dine Out Festival, an much-anticipated extravaganza where the public is invited to sample award-winning Chinese signature dishes in a “dine-out” festival setting.

Created and organized by Chinese Restaurant Awards (CRA), the Signature Dish Dine Out Festival is the first of its kind in North America. It will take place between November 1st – 18th, 2011, with 18 restaurants in Vancouver, Richmond and Burnaby participating, each offering different exclusive menus designed and prepared by top local Chinese chefs. Diners may choose from menus for 4 people at $100, menus for 6 people at $150, or menus for 10 at $300, and find out about these exciting menus online at the Festival’s official website: www.ChineseDiningGuide.com To participate, diners may simply call or make reservations at the participating restaurants and make note of their desire to try the Signature Dish Dine Out Festival’s menu.

“With aims to strengthen Vancouver and Richmond’s Chinese culinary scene, Chinese Restaurant Awards has been a forerunner in encouraging the use of fresh Canadian ingredients in Chinese Signature Dishes. We are very excited to invite local diners and international culinary travelers to experience their best of Greater Vancouver’s Chinese cuisine, with this one-of-a-kind Signature Dishes Dine Out Festival,” states Mr. Craig Stowe, Founding Director of the Chinese Restaurant Awards. “Dine-out events have been successful in capturing an international spotlight on a city’s culinary excellence, while CRA also inspired Chinese travel journalists’ stories in highlighting the representation of Chinese food in overseas. CRA looks forward to attract more tourists, especially from other regions in North America and Mainland China, to stay and dine in Vancouver and Richmond, while experiencing our very own Signature Dish Dine Out Festival.”

Signature Dish Dine Out Festival breaks ground by establishing a creative platform that encourages local Chinese chefs to create innovative dishes with fresh, local ingredients, while the public take part in enjoying them. The festival will feature award-winning Signature Dishes previously honored by CRA, such as Jade Seafood Restaurant’s smoked grandpa chicken, Alvin Garden’s tea smoked duck, and Rainflower Restaurant’s lamb rack in Chinese wine sauce. Besides Canadian seafoods, the Festival will also shine a spotlight on Alberta beef and Alberta pork. There will be a good number of exciting new dishes created especially for this Festival, which includes a new variation of the traditional Chinese Dongpo Pork dish, made with Alberta pork, Amoy cooking sauces and designed by Shiang Garden’s executive chef P. Wing Leung.

Building on CRA’s three consecutive years of success with Diner’s Choice Awards, diners can vote online for the Best Restaurant, Best Service, Best Dinning Environment and Most Innovative, all under the Signature Dish Dine Out Festival category in the upcoming Diner’s Choice Awards commencing this November. Eight critics from this year’s CRA judging panel will also taste the dine-out dishes from all 18 participating restaurants and carefully select dishes that are best fit for the following award categories: Best Alberta Beef, Best Alberta Pork, and Best dish made with Amoy Sauces. Results will constitute to CRA 2012‘s Critics Choice Award and will be announced at CRA award ceremony on January 17, 2012.

Participating Restaurants

1. Alvin Garden
4850 Imperial Street, Burnaby (604-437-0828)
Executive chef: Ling Kang Zheng

2. Bamboo Grove
6920 No.3 Road, Richmond (604-278-9585)
Executive chef: Ming Yeung

3. Empire Chinese Cuisine
8251 Alexandra Road, Richmond (604-303-9780)
Executive chef: Nam Chui

4. Fortune House Seafood Restaurant
2199A-4700 Kingsway, Burnaby (604-438-8686)
Executive chef: Wing Ho

5. Fraser Court Seafood Restaurant
3489 Fraser Street, Vancouver (604-568-1288)
Executive chef: Yiu Fung Lau

6. Gingeri Chinese Cuisine
#323-5300 No. 3 Road, Richmond (604-278-6006)
Executive chefs: C. H. Lo & H. W. Li

7. Golden Swan Seafood Restaurant
5380 Victoria Drive, Vancouver (604-321-6621)
Executive chef: Chi Ling Tam

8. Grand Dynasty Seafood Restaurant
4331 Dominion Street, Burnaby (604-432-6002)
Executive chef: Anthony Leung

9. The Jade Seafood Restaurant
8511 Alexandra Road, Richmond (604-249-0082)
Executive chef: Tony Luk

10. Neptune Seafood Restaurant
#100-8171 Ackroyd Road, Richmond (604-207-9888)
Executive chef: Wing Tam

11. Northern Delicacy
#2788-4151 Hazelbridge Way, Richmond (604-233-7050)
Executive chef: Henry Ng

12. Prince Chinese Seafood Restaurant
2881 Grandview Hwy, Vancouver (604-261-8389)
Executive chef: Kin Man Ng

13. Rainflower Seafood Restaurant
3600 No. 3 Road, Richmond (604-278-7288)
Executive chef: Wing Kuen Wu

14. Red Star Seafood Restaurant (Richmond branch)
#2200-8181 Cambie Road, Richmond (604-270-3003)
Executive chef: Yen Li

15. Shi-Art Chinese Cuisine
#1302-6551 No.3 Road, Richmond (604-279-8998)
Executive chef: Horace Ho

16. Shiang Garden Seafood Restaurant
#2200-4540 No.3 Road, Richmond (604-273-8858)
Executive chef: P. Wing Leung

17. Victory Seafood Restaurant
#2216-4500 Kingsway, Burnaby (604-456-0383)
Executive chef: Wei Guo Yao

18. Vivacity Restaurant
#110-8351 Alexandra Road, Richmond (604-279-1513)
Executive chef: David Li

For more information on the Chinese Restaurant Awards: www.chineserestaurantawards.com
Official Site of the Signature Dine Out Festival: www.ChineseDiningGuide.com
To nominate your favorite restaurants and cast your vote: www.votedinerschoice.com
Chinese Restaurant Awards’ Facebook page & Twitter @CRADiningGuide

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THE DONNELLY GROUP ELEVATES FOOD AND BEVERAGE PROGRAMS

New fall/winter menus and Prud’Homme beer certification unveiled at Vancouver’s leading pubs

Vancouver, BC (October 13, 2011) – The Donnelly Group, the company behind Vancouver’s leading public houses, cocktail dens and nightclubs, is pleased to unveil its new fall/winter food menus and expanded beer program.

The Donnelly Group’s new fall/winter menus showcase a fresh take on the well-executed pub fare that its establishments are known for. In developing the menus, Executive Chef Michael Knowlson—formerly of Bacchus and Sequoia Grill—worked closely with consulting Chef Robert Belcham, co-owner of Vancouver’s successful Refuel, Campagnolo and Campagnolo Roma Restaurants and Vancouver Magazine’s 2009 Chef of the Year.

“I was thrilled to collaborate with Robert, who is dedicated to sourcing the best regional ingredients from local suppliers and purveyors,” says Chef Knowlson.

The Donnelly Group’s new menus showcase local, sustainable meat and seafood, and produce that is fresh, seasonal and organic whenever possible. Chef Knowlson sources gluten-free bread from Panne Rizo Bakery in Vancouver, cheese from Moonstruck on Salt Spring Island and meat products from Two Rivers Specialty Meats. All of the company’s locations are Ocean Wise and Green Table certified.

The new menu highlights include slow roasted Fraser Valley pulled pork sliders with fresh coleslaw and crispy pancetta; panzanella salad with rocket, burrata, red pepper and prosciutto; buttermilk Maple Hill farms free run chicken & waffle sandwich; and roasted wild BC salmon served with a salad of pearl barley, cucumber, tomato, fresh parsley and olive oil.

Focused on quality and attention to detail, all 23 Donnelly Pub Group managers and head bar tenders are now certified with Prud’Homme, an online course dedicated to educating beverage-industry professionals on beer. Founded by Roger Mittag, who formerly ran the beer program at the Labatt Institute, the Prud’Homme program includes an in-depth history of beer styles and production and sees its participants build their beer knowledge in a very short period of time. The Donnelly Group is proud to be the first company in Western Canada to participate in the Prud’Homme program.

“The Donnelly Group is a very forward-thinking hospitality provider with a diverse beer program,” says Mittag, “they are always looking for a new way to enhance the total customer experience.”

Currently, The Donnelly Group tap program features an extensive selection of local craft and worldly brands, such as Howe Sound, Driftwood, Brooklyn, Deschutes, Phillips, Guinness Granville Island, Elysian and Anchor Steam. The bottle program, meanwhile, showcases breweries that aren’t yet available in BC in draught format, such as Pyramid, Sierra Nevada, Lagunitas, Acme and Unibroue. Weekly Cask Nights at the Granville Room with Trevor Kallies feature Innis & Gunn, R&B, Elysian, Howe Sound, Driftwood and Granville Island.

In addition to its new food and cocktails, the Donnelly Group is focused on further developing a forward-thinking beer program that maintains consistency for a vast range of customers. All Pub Group venues and the Granville Room have joined CAMRA, the Campaign for Real Ale Society of BC. The Donnelly Group is celebrating its CAMRA membership with BC Craft Beer Month, a province-wide event held through the month of October.

The Donnelly Group is a creative and diverse management company that owns and operates popular pubs: the Bimini, the Calling, the Library Square Public House, Smiley’s, the Lamplighter, the Academic, Cinema Public House, the New Oxford and the Metropole Community Pub; award-winning nightclubs: Republic, Bar None, and the Post Modern and the cocktail lounge institution the Granville Room. The company’s attention to detail, impressive entertainment calendars, modern designs, community and charity support, and strict policies on patron safety has earned them a reputation as an industry leader in Vancouver. For more information please visit: www.donnellygroup.ca.

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SINGLE MALTS IN STANLEY PARK

The Single Malt that started it all…

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26TH, 2011
6:00PM – 7:30PM

Casey Mackay of Corby Distilleries

will be presenting a classic series of Glenlivet Single Malt scotch whiskies
to celebrate a successful first year of Teahouse tastings!

Join us for the finale of our 2011 Teahouse Tasting series
and learn about the single malt that started it all…
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Tasting Line Up
12 Year
15 Year
18 Year
16 Year Nadurra
~

Your choice of our cheese or charcuterie tasting board to share,
along with a selection of olives, nuts and gherkins,
will accompany the Glenlivet line up.

$30 per person
Not including taxes & gratuity

For tickets and more information please contact
604.669.3281 or teahouseevents@vancouverdine.com

New faces, flavours & wine fuelled events land at Beachside Forno this fall; Internationally celebrated artists delight diners at Hawksworth Restaurant; CRU re-opens with new look and new menus; Weekend brunch at the Oakwood Canadian Bistro; Quails’ Gate Winery brings home double gold from int’l Pinot Noir competition; “Write drunk; Edit sober”; Upcoming ‘La Table Commune’ events at Firefly; Top Table wine directors launch private blends; “Advent of Autumn” – two extraordinary winemaker’s dinners at Blue Water Cafe; Blue Mountain wine tasting at Teahouse in Stanley Park; Cornucopia: Whistler celebrates wine, food and a reason to party!

NEW FACES, FLAVOURS & WINE FUELLED EVENTS LAND AT BEACHSIDE FORNO THIS FALL

Executive Chef Jason Harris and Headline Kurtis Kolt Amp Up Ambleside

West Vancouver, BC. Beachside Forno is thrilled to introduce new Executive Chef, Jason Harris to the fold. After two months in his new role Harris is excited to launch his first seasonal menu with the seaside restaurant.

Chef Harris arrives at Beachside Forno with much enthusiasm, fresh from his post as Restaurant Chef on the opening team in the kitchen at Oru, the critically acclaimed Pan-Asian restaurant, in the Fairmont Pacific Rim.

Talented, keen and youthful would well describe Chef Harris, whose life has centered around food and divergent cultures for as long as he can remember. Migrating from Australia to Canada as a young boy, the regimented 6pm family dinner was the tie that bound the Harris clan together no matter where they were. Harris joined his mother in the kitchen regularly and found himself falling in love with the kitchen.

Harris came through the ranks of Fairmont Hotel kitchens throughout Canada for the past decade, under the tutelage of mentor, Chef David Wong. His lengthy participation on Wong’s Bocuse d’Or team gave him international exposure and experience – not to mention confidence and motivation.

“It’s always encouraging to see young chefs with such confidence and enthusiasm,” says Kurtis Kolt, independent wine consultant. “When it is backed up with so much natural talent and dedication to the craft, it’s really exciting.

Kolt and Harris have already partnered once for a Summer Wine Series and are set for another round with the upcoming, ‘Pinot, Pinot, Pinot’ dinner on October 4. Join this dynamic duo for the delicious event.

Pinot, Pinot, Pinot – Tuesday, October 4, 6:30pm

Well suited to a variety of different growing regions around the world, and known for their nuanced and delicate nature, wine varietals Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir are worth getting to know.

Led by local wine personality, Kurtis Kolt, enjoy a four-course dinner matched with five wines from the Pinot family. Paired with the inspired cuisine of Beachside Forno’s vibrant new Executive Chef, Jason Harris, this is sure to be a delightfully delicious learning experience.

Tickets are $70 per person and include all wine pairings (tax & gratuity not included).

Purchase tickets in advance by dropping in to Beachside Forno by calling 604.926.3332

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INTERNATIONALLY CELEBRATED ARTISTS DELIGHT DINERS AT HAWKSWORTH RESTAURANT

Watch Rodney Graham’s Anamorphic Psychomania Variation Installation

At Hawksworth Restaurant original artworks bring authenticity and reflect the creativity and quality of the cuisine. Hawksworth’s friend and internationally celebrated artist Rodney Graham has created a signature installation that fills an entire wall of the northernmost Art Room; full of colour, its scale, presence and importance to Vancouver are honored in this room.

A Vancouver native, Rodney Graham is a prolific creator who has exhibited a wide range of art forms including video, photography, music, sculpture, drawing and installation. His work can be found in numerous major private and public collections in North America and in Europe including the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. He has received many honours, most recently the 2011 Audain Prize for lifetime achievement in visual arts, given annually in recognition of a contemporary B.C. artist.

At Hawksworth Restaurant ‘Anamorphic Psychomania Variation’ is the third work in a series inspired by Psychomania a British zombie movie from 1970. Several scenes in the film are set in the crazily modernist living room of one of the lead characters where two multi-panel wall reliefs provided the inspiration for Graham’s Psychomania Variation 1, Psychomania Variation 11 and Anamorphic Psychomania Variation (liquetex on linen).

Also featured at Hawksworth Restaurant Big Love with Diamond Dust is a bold and dramatic print by the British enfant terrible of the art world, Damien Hirst, signed by the artist and one of 50, together with Brian Boulton’s meticulous depiction of Chef Hawksworth in his signature photo-realist drawing style, intriguing to the eye while stimulating the mind.

For more info, visit: hawksworthrestaurant.com

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CRU RE-OPENS WITH NEW LOOK AND NEW MENUS

September 19, 2011 (Vancouver, BC) – Renovations at CRU are now complete, and effective immediately the restaurant is open for business. Designed by Greg Loewen, a production designer for the film and television industry, the restaurant’s elegant yet relaxed space has been completely refreshed with new seating, lighting, ceiling and flooring.

In addition to its new look, CRU also has rolled out a brand new lunch menu and $39 Autumn prix-fixe dinner.

Of course, the new fall menus were designed by CRU’s Executive Chef Alana Peckham, who will be the only female chef competing in Vancouver’s Canadian Gold Medal Plates on the 4th of November 2011.
Complete menus may be viewed at www.cru.ca.

CRU Restaurant
1459 West Broadway, Vancouver

Lunch Mon. – Fri. 11:30am – 2:00pm
Dinner Daily from 5:30 – 10:00pm

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WEEKEND BRUNCH AT THE OAKWOOD CANADIAN BISTRO

Enjoy your weekends a little more with brunch at the Oakwood Canadian Bistro, Kitsilano’s latest neighbourhood restaurant. The Oakwood welcomes guests with a comforting down-to-earth space and honest Canadian fare by Executive Chef Mike Robbins.

Chef Robbins has crafted a tasty selection of brunch dishes, made from seasonal and locally sourced organic products. Brunch highlights include the albacore tuna nicoise benedict ($14), blueberry mascarpone French toast ($10), corned beef hash ($14) and braised shortrib with potato pancakes ($12). Also available is the Oakwood’s weekly brunch soup & sandwich feature served on house made bread ($13).

At the bar the Oakwood offers an excellent list of local craft beers and classic cocktails (brunch favourites include the mimosa, michelada and caesar), and 49th Parallel artisan coffee.

The Oakwood Canadian Bistro serves fresh, honest food in a casual neighbourhood environment. This modest Kitsilano room encourages diners to gather around the central communal table with old and new friends, sip BC craft beers and linger over one of Chef Michael Robbins’ seasonally driven dishes. The Oakwood is open for brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 3pm.

The Oakwood Canadian Bistro
2741 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver
Phone: 604.558.1965

To view menus and for more information please visit: theoakwood.ca

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QUAILS’ GATE WINERY BRINGS HOME ONE OF ONLY FOUR DOUBLE GOLDS FROM INTERNATIONAL PINOT NOIR COMPETITION

September, 2011 (Vancouver, BC) – The Okanagan’s Quails’ Gate winery is pleased to announce that its 2009 Stewart Family Reserve Pinot Noir has been awarded Grand Or (Double Gold) at the Mondial du Pinot Noir Competition in Switzerland. The competition awarded ONLY 4 Double Gold awards.

The Mondial du Pinot Noir is an international competition that focuses exclusively on Pinot Noir. Fifty international judges participated in the 14th annual Mondial du Pinot Noir, held in Sierre, Switzerland. The judges looked for outstanding wines that reflected the terroir of their origins, which is a clear indication of the winemaker’s technical mastery.

One of the main goals at Quails’ Gate is to produce wines that are a perfect expression of the Okanagan Valley terroir. In the case of the Stewart Family Reserve wines, the fruit used for the family’s premium wine label come from the estate’s very best blocks. Stewart Family Reserve wines are made only in vintages when the quality of the fruit is exceptionally good. Quails’ Gate 2009 Stewart Family Reserve Pinot Noir is scheduled to be released in early 2012.

This latest award will serve to enhance the winery’s reputation the world stage. In recent years Quails’ Gate has been recognized not only for the excellence of its wines, but also as an agri-tourism destination.

For more info, visit:mondial-du-pinot-noir.com and quailsgate.com

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“Write Drunk; Edit Sober” – Hemingway

Typewriter (tahyp-rahy-ter) noun – a keyboard machine for writing mechanically in characters resembling print. It may be operated entirely by hand or be powered by electricity.

If youʼve been to Pourhouse lately, you may have noticed an old Remington Rand 17 at the end of the bar. Look a little closer and you may see literary genius on the pages of our turn-of-the-century Twitter. Have a seat … have a cocktail … if inspiration strikes, share your thoughts.

Hemingway was the inspiration for several classic 20th Century cocktails. He was also a believer in imbibing before he took to the pen. Follow the lead of this luminary; enjoy a beverage at Pourhouse and start hitting the typewriter keys … we may even share your most poignant ramblings.

“An intelligent man is sometimes forced to be drunk to spend time with his fools.” – Hemingway

For more info, visit: pourhousevancouver.com

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UPCOMING LA TABLE COMMUNE EVENTS AT FIREFLY FINE WINES AND ALES

Food and Wine Pairing
Pairing food and wine is an exciting and rewarding challenge, but it can also add to the pressure of the holidays. Let us help you to find the perfect wine for any occasion with this tasting, which will help you discover the pairing essentials for turkey and all the Thanksgiving fixings.

Thursday Oct. 6th – 7pm – 9pm – Cambie Store – $35

How Italy Sparkles
Sparkling wines are made all over the world and Italian sparkling wine is gaining popularity. Prosecco, Asti and Moscato d’Asti are made in a different method than Champagne and have a unique allure — and a much lower price tag than their French competitors. We will taste different styles of bubbles from around Italy and you can be the judge of how you would like to invest your sparkling dollars.

Friday, Oct. 21st – 7pm – 9pm – Cambie Store – $35

For more info, visit: fireflyfinewinesandales.com

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TOP TABLE WINE DIRECTORS LAUNCH PRIVATE BLENDS

Partnership with Laughing Stock Vineyards produces two uniquely blended wines

Vancouver and Whistler, B.C. (September 14, 2011) – Top Table’s four wine directors—Araxi’s Samantha Rahn, Blue Water Cafe’s Andrea Vescovi, CinCin’s Sarah McCauley, and West’s Owen Knowlton—are excited to debut their inaugural wine label, Director’s Blend, a duo of personally blended wines produced by Laughing Stock Vineyards in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley.

Augmenting the extensive international wine cellars at each restaurant, the 2009 Director’s Blend Red and 2010 Director’s Blend White are now available exclusively at Top Table restaurants and represent the first vintages of an ongoing project.

After researching, blending and tasting with Laughing Stock’s David and Cynthia Enns for more than a year, the wine directors have created food-friendly cuvées that deliver value far beyond their price points.

Owen Knowlton, Vancouver’s 2011 Sommelier of the Year, says, “We’re extremely proud of these first vintages. Our intention was to build approachable blends to complement the food offered in our restaurants, and we feel we’ve succeeded.”

“There were a number of trial blends and plenty of discussion,” adds Sarah McCauley. Blue Water Cafe’s Andrea Vescovi (2009 Sommelier of the Year) and Araxi’s Samantha Rahn agree, adding, “David’s familiarity with each varietal was a great boost – he was a vital part of our collaboration in what can only be described as a fascinating process.”

Tasting Notes

2010 Director’s Blend White
Comprised of grapes grown on the Naramata Bench and East Bench Osoyoos, the White consists of 50% pinot gris, 20% viognier, 15% pinot blanc, and 15% sauvignon blanc. Fresh and elegant with aromas of intense pink grapefruit, white peach and mineral. Refreshing acidity lends a vibrant structure built for food. Complex, harmonious finish leaves a lasting impression of candied citrus.

2009 Director’s Blend Red
Comprised of grapes grown on the Naramata Bench and East Bench Osoyoos, the Red consists of 40% cabernet sauvignon, 35% merlot, 15% syrah, and 10% cabernet franc. Intense, complex nose of wild berries, vanilla, mocha and plum. Velvety and round tannins balanced with vibrant acidity. Long, lingering finish of cocoa, bright fruit and spice box.

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ADVENT OF AUTUMN – TWO EXTRAORDINARY WINEMAKER’S DINNERS AT BLUE WATER CAFE

Blue Water Cafe welcomes Viña Errázuriz and Maison Joseph Drouhin/Domaine Drouhin

Vancouver, B.C. (September 21, 2011) – Blue Water Cafe will welcome two leading wineries in two separate events during the month of October: Viña Errázuriz (Chile), as well as Maison Joseph Drouhin (Burgundy) and Domaine Drouhin (Oregon). Please join us for multi-course menus designed by executive chef Frank Pabst to complement each wine, and to hear from two legendary winemakers, who will provide expert commentary on their histories, and winemaking philosophies and techniques.

Discover the wines of Viña Errázuriz – An Evening with Chief Winemaker, Francisco Baettig

Date: Tuesday, October 11th, 2011
Time: Reception begins at 6:00 p.m.
Special Guest: Chief Winemaker, Francisco Baettig
Price: $135 plus tax and gratuity

When wine director Andrea Vescovi toured Chile’s leading wineries in 2009, he made sure to visit Viña Errázuriz. Although he had enjoyed their wines for many years, this was his first opportunity to meet with their winemaking team. Andrea says, “These wines represent Chile at its finest – there is finesse, elegance and complexity in every bottle.” Indeed, the 130-year old winery, located 100 kilometres north of Santiago, is now operated by fifth generation Eduardo Chadwick, who practices natural, modern viticulture in the Aconcagua, Casablanca and Curicó valleys.

Aconcagua Costa Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, 2010
Wild Ferment Chardonnay, 2009
Single Vineyard Carmenére, 2009
La Cumbre Syrah, 2007
Don Maximiano Founder’s Reserve, 2008
Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc, 2008

From Burgundy to Oregon: The Ultimate Horizontal – An Evening with Véronique Drouhin-Boss
Maison Joseph Drouhin (Burgundy) and Domaine Drouhin (Oregon)

Date: Wednesday, October 19th, 2011
Time: Reception begins at 6:00 p.m.
Special Guest: Head Winemaker, Véronique Drouhin-Boss
Price: $148 plus tax and gratuity

Old World meets New in this fascinating comparison of Drouhin wines from both their Burgundy and Willamette Valley estates. And while more than 6,000 kilometres separate the terroirs, some similarities—gained over four generations of fine winemaking—will resonate in this ‘ultimate horizontal’ evening of side-by-side tastings.

The Drouhin’s roots go deep under Burgundy. Founded in 1880, Maison Joseph Drouhin is centered in the Côte de Beaune and Côte de Nuits domaines and is known around the world for its Premier and Grand Crus. Following their inaugural Oregon vintage in 1988, they became equally adept at expressing the best of New World pinot noir and chardonnay. Véronique Drouhin-Boss received her National Diploma of Œnology from the Université de Bourgogne-Dijon and obtained an advanced degree (Diplôme Supérieur de Recherche) for her work on the pinot noir grape varietal. She now divides her time between Burgundy and Oregon.

HOW TO PURCHASE
Please email Stephan Cachard at stephan@bluewatercafe.net. Seating is limited.

Awarded Gold for ‘Best Seafood’ by critics in Vancouver magazine’s annual Restaurant Awards, Blue Water Cafe is celebrated as the city’s definitive destination for seafood. From the dynamic ‘East meets West’ kitchen, Chef Frank Pabst crafts captivating seafood dishes using the freshest wild fish. Enhanced by one of the country’s finest wine collections and intuitive service from Stephan Cachard’s all-star team, Blue Water Cafe is housed in a handsome brick and beam warehouse conversion in the heart of historic Yaletown.

1095 Hamilton Street, Vancouver, B.C. | Valet nightly | 604-688-8078 | www.bluewatercafe.net

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TEAHOUSE IN STANLEY PARK WINE TASTING WITH BLUE MOUNTAIN

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28TH, 2011

6:00PM – 7:30PM

Christine Fawcett of Keystone Fine Wines

will be featuring the following selection of unique wines
from Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars in BC’s Okanagan Falls.

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GOLD LABEL BRUT

2010 SAUVIGNON BLANC

2009 PINOT GRIS

2009 PINOT NOIR

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Canapés will be specially prepared to

accompany and complement the select wines.

Join us for an experience in BC wine and delicious food!

$25 per person

Not including taxes & gratuity

For tickets and more information please contact

604.669.3281 or teahouseevents@vancouverdine.com

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CORNUCOPIA: WHISTLER CELEBRATES WINE, FOOD AND A REASON TO PARTY!

Whistler, B.C. – Cornucopia is not only a showcase for exceptional wine and food; it’s also Whistler’s stage for the ultimate fall celebration scene.

In addition to wine tastings, seminars and culinary events, Cornucopia — taking place November 10-13 – serves up a schedule of exciting parties the likes of which Whistler has become famous for. The celebrated events of Araxi’s Bubbles and Oceans and the Bearfoot Bistro’s Masquerave are joined by House Party, CRUSH, Casino Royale and Top Gun to round out the party list.

What better way to welcome guests than with a house party? Just like a backyard B.C. barbecue, House Party features local breweries, wineries and cuisine. Enjoy domestic tipple from beer makers such as Whistler Brewing, Phillips Beer and Okanagan Springs and exceptional B.C. wines from producers including Road 13, Summerhill, Pyramid, Tinhorn Creek, Blasted Church and Castoro de Oro Estate Winery. Sidecut restaurant will return to offer its array of tasty barbecue cuisine, salads and sides. Live music from a local DJ sets the tone for a classic Whistler ‘shaker’ at House Party on Thursday November 10 from 6-9 p.m. at the Whistler Conference Centre. House Party provides incredible value with a ticket price of only $40.

CRUSH is the flagship dual-night tasting event which returns Friday November 11 and Saturday November 12 from 8-11 p.m. at the Whistler Conference Centre. The official tasting party of Cornucopia, CRUSH features more than 60 wineries from across the globe. CRUSH is the ultimate sipping, sampling and savouring experience and is THE place to see and be seen during Cornucopia. Natalie MacLean, acclaimed wine writer, will be on hand for the first hour of the Friday night CRUSH to sell and showcase her new book Unquenchable: A Tipsy Quest for the World’s Best Bargain Bottles. MacLean will be available to sign her book and exchange wine tips in this exclusive tasting meet-and-greet. There will also be select vendors on hand offering tasting samples, such as Dairy Farmers of Canada, Rogers’ Chocolates, Nita Lake Lodge and Crêpe Montagne. Guests are reminded that CRUSH is a wine tasting gala and, since dinner is not provided, attendees should plan on dining at one of Whistler’s more than 70 restaurants prior to attending the event. Tickets are $85.

Also on Friday, starting at 9 p.m. is the ever exciting Casino Royale. Guests can transport themselves to the days of the Rat Pack at the Ric’s Grill event with Vegas vibe featuring showgirls, circus performers, DJs, drinks and, of course … the casino. Tickets are $150.

The Longhorn Saloon and Vincor present Top Gun … a Tribute on Saturday at 9 p.m. The Burlesque dancers return, performing a tribute to the 25th anniversary of the movie release of Top Gun and the 30th anniversary of Sumac Ridge Estate Winery. This promises to be an engaging evening of sparkling wine, dancing and choreographed entertainment. The $15 ticket includes complimentary coat check and a glass of Tribute sparkling.

Visit whistlercornucopia.com for ticket and event information.

Most wine articles are confined to the back pages of the newspaper, or published in trade or tourist focused publications. They tend to focus on how great we are, where to go and what to do, rarely do articles get published on the business of wine. When Gordon Hamilton wrote an article on changing buying habits of consumers in the August 30th edition of the Vancouver Sun, I took notice. (read the article here)

I chuckled when I read that Cedar Creek has gone from three bottling’s of Merlot (Platinum, Estate and Entry level) to two bottlings, they combined the Estate and entry level into one bottling at around $20.00 and kept the Platinum at $40.

I can’t tell you how many times I have seen wineries take the eyes out of a great bottle of entry level wine, only to realize when the economy tanks they have to retrench and offer better value, meaning a better wine, at the $17-$20 range.

What disturbed me the most about the article was the one million dollar interest-free loan Andrew Peller received for purchasing state of the art bag-in-the-box technology for its Kelowna and Grimsby, Ont. Wineries, wow! Let’s face facts, British Columbia will never be a low cost producer of wines, climatic factors, geography and competition with land developers and recreational land developers will always keep land prices high, consequently the resulting wine prices are also high.

The wine business is a long term multi-generational endeavor, we must think where and what we want to be in 50-75 years and should we hang our hats on the latest bag-in-the-box technology or rather follow in the footsteps of the worlds most famous small wine region – Burgundy.

Instead of giving a multi million-dollar corporation an interest free loan I would rather see the BC wine industry undertake the following:

• Detailed soil analysis, what grows best where and make that available to the trade and public, making sure no retirement homes, hotels or swimming pools are built on them.

• Undertake a serious look towards creating and formalizing an appellation and sub-appellation system; if your winery is one region of the Okanagan your grapes come from another it has to say it on the label.

• Research trips for winemakers to France, Italy, Spain and benchmark themselves against the best the world has to offer. Who are the best Riesling producers? Take them to Alsace and visit Zind Humbrecht, Albert Mann, Domaine Weinbach and others, a trip to Burgundy to visit Nicolas Rossignoal and Anne Claude Lefalive.

• Seminars on Bio-Dynamic farming and winemaking with Philippe Armeinier, he is dying to come up for a visit. Offer a trip to Bordeaux to taste and visit with some of the world’s greatest estates for inspiration. Why can’t we be as good as they are? It will take time, but the seed and culture must be planted now.

• The direction must be set by visionary political leaders, I know this is hard to come by if not impossible these days, but we as consumers should demand nothing less. The wineries, to ensure their long term viability must demand it, so 100 years from now BC is mentioned within the pantheon of great wine producing regions not just an anecdotal foot note in the Oxford Companion for wines.

Also, here is the insidious consequence of continuing to foster bottled in BC wines. Three of the largest British Columbia wineries also have import companies; they have the larger sales teams and better distribution and listing opportunities. When a small independent wine importer finds a wine from a small quality producer more often than not the wine is relegated to a speculative listing, those in the industry all know that is essentially solitary confinement for wine, in which restaurants have to order by the case and delivery can take weeks from Annacis Island, whereas bottled in BC wines can be direct delivered to restaurants and wine shops winery.

Is the consumer getting the best bottle of wine possible for $13-$15 versus a domaine bottled of imported wine which has been carefully made by a family? Unlikely.

The problem is the imported wine is marked up 123% so these wines usually retail on our shelves for $18-$19 when the market is asking for $13-$15. Since imports have an impossible time at landing at that price the bottled in BC wines take up that sweet spot, who suffers? Ultimately, the consumer and the small business owner. The consumer for not getting the best value wine possible and the small business owner for not being able to penetrate the market.

~ John Clerides

Check out some photos from a few of the exciting F&B events Urban Diner has attended over the last couple weeks.

^ Okanagan Crush Pad's Alison Scholefield poses with a bottle of Haywire Rose at the recent wine tasting at the new Boneta in Gastown

^ Okanagan Crush Pad's David Scholefield ready with a bottle from his newly launched line Bartier & Scholefield

^ Okanagan Crush Pad's head winemaker, Michael Bartier, with his red "The Goal" and white "The Cowboy" wines at the exclusive industry tasting at Boneta

^ Laughing Stock Vineyard's David and Cynthia Enns join the Top Table wine directors, Sarah McCauley, Samantha Rahn, and Andrea Vescovi for the official launch of Top Table's "Director's Blends" (a private label wine collaboration) at Cincin Ristorante on Wednesday, September 14th

^ Pink Elephant Thai restaurateur Desmond Chen and friend with Playboy bunnies at the 25th Anniversary of Thai House Restaurants (Image courtesy of Brian K Smith Photography)

^ Thai House restaurateur Desmond Chen poses with local food blogger, Victoria Chemko at his family's 25th anniversary party

Here are two noteworthy upcoming wine events you won’t want to miss. Come inside for details.

Marquis Wine Cellars is pleased to announce the date of their 2008 Bordeaux Release Tasting, September 17th, 2011 from 9:00am to 11:00am. The cost per ticket is $39.90 and the ticket cost will be fully reimbursed when $299.00 worth of wine is purchased from Marquis, that day. The Marquis Bordeaux Release Tasting has turned out to be one of Vancouver’s premier wine events as they will open some of the best wines the 2008 vintage has to offer. This includes not only some of the famous names one only reads about, such as Leoville Las Cases, the sexy and often in limited supply Leoville Barton, and the iconic and prestigious Margaux & Haut Brion.

A lot of people will be amazed to discover that Bordeaux crafts a lot of spectacular wine which do not cost an arm and a leg, prices start at $31 per bottle. “Providing outstanding, yet affordable wines is what makes the wine business fun and exciting”, John Clerides of Marquis Wine Cellars. There will be 31 different Bordeaux wines released on the 17th and 125 cases of wine will be available for purchase.

At the Bordeaux tasting Marquis will be pouring a selection of 12 different wines, 8 of them coming from the 2008 vintages:

• Chateau Bellefont-Belcier, St. Emilion – $64.90
90 points – Robert Parker
• Chateau Beychevelle, St. Julien – $84.90
89+ points – Robert Parker
• Chateau Bolaire, Bordeaux Superieur – $31.90
86 points – Robert Parker
• Chateau Cos d’Estournel, St. Estephe – $219.90
92+ points – Robert Parker
• Chateau Leoville Poyferre, St. Julien – $99.90
94 points – Robert Parker
• Chateau Palmer, Margaux – $289.90
94 points – Robert Parker
• Chateau Pichon Baron, Pauillac – $159.90
95 points – Robert Parker
• Chateau Rieussec, Sauternes – $69.90 for 375ml
91-93 points – Robert Parker

The balance of the tasting will include wines from the 2003, 2004 and 2005 vintages.

Further details regarding the tasting event can be found at:
http://www.marquis-wines.com/wine-tasting/special-events-and-tastings.htm

Tickets for the Bordeaux Tasting are limited to 75 paid guests but the tickets are selling fast! To buy tickets for the tasting just visit Marquis at 1034 Davie Street, Vancouver or call (604) 684-0445. If you can’t get a ticket for the Bordeaux tasting the doors to Marquis will open to the public at 11am and any remaining wines will become available for purchase. Should you be unable to attend, you can submit a “wish list” of wines to Marquis Wine Cellars via email to jonellison@marquis-wines.com.  After 11am, these orders will be filled to their fullest extent.

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ST. URBANSHOF RIESLING TASTING WITH OWNER NIK WEIS

Venue: Legacy Liquor Store, 1633 Manitoba St.

Saturday, September 17 6:30pm – 8:30pm

A truly Riesling focused tasting and pairing, you will be shocked and amazed at the differences between each and every single one! Join Owner Nik Weis as he walks you through his different Rieslings paired with tasty treats.

• 2010 Urban Riesling New vintage

• 2009 Ockfener Bockstein Kabinett Riesling New vintage

• 2007 Piesporter Goldtropfchen Spatlese Riesling

25 tickets available, tickets are $20 a person and available for purchase here.

I have been playing a wine game with restaurant sommeliers and wine nerds across town and beyond where I show up with a mystery bottle and ask them to review it blind. By not knowing what the wine is or who represents it, hopefully, an honest-no-bs-review is achieved.

Come inside and read the review of our next contestant…

^ Mr. Kevin van Hullebush, general manager and sommelier of ensemble restaurant.

2007 NK’Mip Qwam Qwmt Meritage
ABV: 14.5%
Category: Meritage
Region/Country: Okanagan Valley, BC Canada
Winemaker: www.nkmipcellars.com
Varietal Character/Distinctiveness: ~ 4 “Bright dark berry. Slight smoke and oak.”
Expression: 4 ~ “Big, rich, currant fruit on the palate. Bright acidity.”
Complexity: 3 ~ “Moderately.”
Balance: 3.5 ~ “Well-balanced. Youngish. Slight greeness.
Value: 3.5 
Score: 18/25

Further Tasting Notes: “Cabernet blend from BC.”

Availability: Available at Legacy Liquor Store or select BC Liquor stores.
Pricing: $30-35

Wine review by Kevin van Hullebush, general manager and sommelier of ensemble restaurant.