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Debbie's Blog
Introducing Savvy Sip & Shop. With this new service you can now order ANY wines that we have featured at recent events we have hosted or have sponsored. Mix & match ANY bottles of your favorite Ontario wines and they will be delivered to your home or office...within a week! When you order 12 bottles or more, shipping is FREE.
It is that easy to shop for Ontario wines!
Order Niagara-on-the-Lake wines featured at One Unforgettable Taste & Buy
Order Prince Edward County wines, ciders & craft beers featured at The Great Canadian Cheese Festival
Never ordered wines online? No problem. Our Savvy Team of Sommeliers is ready to help you & give you wine recommendations. Call us anytime on 613-SAVVYCO (728-8926).
We are proud to be a returning sponsor for The Great Canadian Cheese Festival. It is a delicious weekend discovering that Canada makes more than just cheddar. Nosh & nibble on artisan cheeses, gourmet foods and wines too!
Yummy cheeses are best served with a glass (or two of wine), we created for the festival Savvy Sip & Shop - a new service that enables you to order ANY combination of wines, ciders or craft beers featured at the festival to be shipped directly to your home or office – within a week! Most of the wines, ciders & beers are not available at the LCBO, so this is the best way to always have your favorites on hand.
Mix & match ANY featured wines, ciders & craft beers
With over 20 wineries, breweries and a cider too, it is a fun way to discover new favorite wines, ciders & craft beers made in Prince Edward County & Niagara too. Order from Savvy Sip & Shop any of your favorites from The Great Canadian Cheese Festival and they will be delivered to your home or office - within a week! Or here`s an idea: order an assortment of wine for a friend. We will ship anywhere in Ontario. Order 12 or more bottles and shipping by courier is FREE.
Need a wine tip? Call on our Savvy Sommeliers to help recommend wines 613-SAVVYCO (728-8926) or email us on cheers@savvycompany.ca
Featured wines, craft beers & ciders:
Black Prince Winery
2011 Riesling $15.95
2010 Chardonnay $17.95
2010 Cabernet Franc Reserve $18.95
2010 Merlot VQA Prince Edward County $19.95
Casa-Dea Winery
2011 Dea's Cuvée Sparkling $18.95
2009 Chardonnay Reserve $24.95
2010 Pinot Gris $18.95
2010 Gamay $15.95
2009 Cabernet Franc $18.95
Exultet Winery
2012 Cru X White Light $25.00
2010 Cru X Pinot Noir $29.95
2012 Vidal Icewine $26.00
Harwood Estate Vineyards
2011 Chardonnay $32.00
2011 Pinot Gris $18.00
2010 St. Laurent $20.00
2010 Pinot Noir $29.00
2011 Marquesa $29.00
2009 Just Desserts $25.00
Huff Estates Winery
2010 Cuvée Janine $24.95
2011 Riesling Off Dry $17.95
2010 South Bay Chardonnay $29.95
2012 Pinot Gris $19.95
2011 Pinot Noir $24.95
2011 South Bay Merlot $29.95
Karlo Estates
2010 Riesling $22.00
2010 Chardonnay CHOA $25.00
2011 Frontenac Gris Rosé $16.00
2012 Pinot Gris $21
2010 Cabernet Franc $24.00
2010 Merlot $24.00
2010 Pinot Noir $29.00
2010 Quintus $35.00
2010 VanAlstine White Port $29.00
2009 VanAlstine Red Port $29.00
Keint-He Winery
2009 Chardonnay $20.00
2011 Voyageur Rosé $15.00
2010 Pinot2 $20.00
2008 Pineaux Sauvage $25.00
Lacey Estates Vineyard
2011 Gewürztraminer Reserve $25.00
2010 Chardonnay $27.00
2012 Pinot Gris Pink Off Dry $25.00
2010 Baco Noir $20.00
2010 Pinot Noir $29.00
Lighthall Vineyards
2012 Progression Sparkling $20.00
2009 Chardonnay $25.00
2010 Chardonnay $25.00
2011 Gewürztraminer $25.00
2010 Pinot Noir $25.00
Long Dog Winery
2008 Bella Riserva Chardonnay $18.00
2009 Bella Riserva Chardonnay $22.00
2009 Otto Pinot Noir $24.00
2007 Otto Pinot Noir $30.00
2008 Top Dog Pinot Noir $24.00
2009 Top Dog Pinot Noir $30.00
Palatine Hills
2010 - 1812 Chardonnay $12.00
2010 Neufeld Vineyard Chardonnay $22.95
2012 - 1812 Merlot Cabernet $13.00
2010 Neufeld Vineyard Cabernet Franc $19.95
Redtail Vineyard
2011 Riesling $17.95
2012 Chardonnay $27.95
2010 Pinot Noir $28.95
Rosehall Run Vineyards
2010 Cabernet Franc Cuvée County $24.95
Sandbanks Estate Winery
2012 Dunes $12.95
2011 Riesling $14.95
2011 Gewürztraminer $16.95
2012 Sauvignon Blanc $16.95
2012 Rosé $12.95
2012 Baco Noir $14.95
2012 Dunes Red $14.95
2012 Cabernet Franc $14.95
2010 Baco Noir Reserve $19.95
2010 French Kiss (Cabernet Merlot) $24.95
2011 LOVE Cassis Aperitivo $14.95
Stanners Vineyard
2010 Chardonnay $25.00
2011 Chardonnay $25.00
2009 Cabernet Franc $22.00
2010 Pinot Noir $30.00
The Grange of Prince Edward County
2011 Estate Chardonnay Unoaked $15.95
2011 GPE Fumé Blanc $24.95
2009 Select Gamay Noir $15.95
2007 Diana Block Pinot Noir $34.95
Barley Days Brewery
Loyalist Lager
Harvest Gold Pale Ale
Wine & Sail Dark Ale
Mixed 6 bottle pack (2 bottles of each) $13.25
Mixed 24 bottle pack (8 bottles of each) $45.95
County Cider Company
Waupoos Premium Cider (4 x 341ml) $13.35
County Cider (1L) $7.85
Waupoos Peach Cider (1L) $9.95
Waupoos Feral Cider (1L) $9.95
Prince Edward Ice Cider (375ml) $29.95
Another SOLD OUT Savvy Event!
Back by popular demand, One Unforgettable Taste & Buy provided the opportunity for guests to order any combination of their favorite wines. The featured wines are not available at the LCBO or Vintages. As an extra bonus, free shipping by courier will be offered for orders of 12 bottles or more. This is a perfect opportunity to stock up for summer entertaining.
Go to our Facebook page to see some photos of the event.
While the event is over for another year - don`t despair! Anyone can still order Niagara-on-the-Lake wines online using a new service we have created - Savvy Sip & Shop.
Click here order Niagara-on-the-Lake wines!
It is that easy to have your favorite Niagara-on-the-Lake wines delivered - within a week.
One Unforgettable Taste & Buy is about tasting, discovering & ordering …
Have a look below at the large selection of outstanding wines that will be uncorked to enjoy. None of these wines are available at the LCBO.
Exclusive at this event - You can order ANY combination of outstanding wines from ANY of the featured wineries & they will be delivered by courier to your home or office. Free shipping on all orders of 12 bottles or more! Now you can order your ANY of these wines online
Featured wineries & wines:
Between The Lines Estate Winery
2011 Gewürztraminer $14.95
2011 Cabernet Franc $15.95
2012 Simply Stainless Chardonnay Estate $16.95
2010 Pinot Noir Estate $18.95
2010 Chardonnay Musqué Estate Bottled $16.95
2010 Gamay "Droit" St. David's Bench $14.95
2011 Red Paw Pinot Gris $17.95
2011 Red Paw Pinot Noir $19.95
2012 Lakewiew Cellars Syrah Rosé Reserve $16.95
2010 Lakeview Cellars Baco Noir Reserve $19.95
2011 Riesling $18.00
2011 Rosé $16.00
2012 Discovery Series P3 $19.95
2011 Merlot Reserve $22.95
2012 Grand Reserve Sauvignon Blanc $19.95
2010 Grand Reserve Shiraz $19.95
2010 Pinot Gris $13.95
2009 Baco Merlot $10.95
2012 Cabernet Sauvignon $12.75
2012 Shiraz $12.75
2012 Chardonnay Unoaked $15.00
2011 Pinot Noir 3.7 $30.00
Niagara College Teaching Winery
2010 Dean’s List Chardonnay $27.95
Pinot Noir Balaance $18.95
2011 Riesling $12.85
2010 Cabernet Franc Neufeld Vineyard $19.95
2012 Sauvignon Blanc Private Reserve $18.95
2011 Cabernet Franc Private Reserve $21.95
2011 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented $15.00
2011 Dry Rosé $15.00
2011 Riesling $16.00
2011 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented $25.00
2011 Chardonnay Estate $24.00
2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate $39.00
2012 Fortune Cabernet Rosé $12.95
2011 The Magician Pinot Noir/Shiraz $19.95
2012 Sauvignon Blanc $16.95
2011 Salvatores Malbec Reserve $29.95
2011 Sauvignon Blanc $14.95
RSVP White Blend $14.95
2012 Triomphe Chardonnay $21.95
2008 Triomphe Cabernet Merlot $23.95
2012 Wild Ass Rosé $19.95
2009 Tollgate Fumé Blanc $24.95
2012 Fumé Blanc Terroir $18.95
2011 Meritage Canadian Oak $18.95
Burgundy Plum $23.95
Chocolate Embrace (375 mL) $24.95
2012 Riesling Ghost Creek Vineyard $25.00
2012 Trius Rosé $15.75
One Unforgettable Taste & Buy - details
DATE: Tuesday May 28, 2013
EVENT STARTS: 7pm
EVENT ENDS: 9pm
LOCATION: The NEW Agriculture & Food Museum, 361 Prince of Wales Drive, located on the Central Experimental Farm, Ottawa
Buy your tickets >>
Can't make it but want to order wines?
No problem! Simply call our Savvy Team on 613-SAVVYCO (613-728-8926) to make the arrangements for you. Place your order before June 1st and you can take advantage of the free shipping offer on a case of wine.
We look forward to seeing you at One Unforgettable Taste & Buy.
Everyone is welcome to join us!
Contact Savvy Company for more information about other Savvy Events
www.savvycompany.ca
613.SAVVYCO
613.728.8926
Cheers!
Did you know that there are over 30 wineries in Prince Edward County?
Taste them all at this year’s Terroir – a County Wine Celebration on Saturday May 25th where all of the wineries will be under one roof at the historic Crystal Palace in the heart of Picton. This is a great day trip from Ottawa or Toronto, or plan a weekend getaway.
Hop on the Savvy Bus!
New this year, we are running a coach service to Terroir. The Savvy Bus will depart from 2 locations in Ottawa. A Savvy Sommelier will be on board offering tips on wine, cheese or 'County' questions along the way. It will be a delicious day trip!
Book your seat on the Terroir bus > >
Many County wineries will introduce their new 2012 wines – perfect for summertime sipping. Enjoy with artisan cheeses and other delicious gourmet foods made by local County chefs.
Here is a list of the wineries from Prince Edward County that will be popping the corks on their wines at Terroir include:
Lacey Estates Vineyard and Winery
Norman Hardie Winery and Vineyard
The Grange of Prince Edward County Vineyards and Estate Winery
See you under the Big Top - Terroir Tent
Take a break from sipping & sampling the finest Ontario wines and take part in seminars & demonstrations by wine personalities including 2 seminars hosted by Savvy Company! Debbie will be at the table with County wine industry pioneer Norman Hardie and newcomer winery owner & winemaker Glenn Symons. They will be rolling up their sleeves to talk dirty…about Terroir that is!
Then our own cheese Sommelier Vanessa Simmons will give you a taste of what it makes cheese `artisan`.
Plan your day around this seminar schedule:
12:30pm - Shawn McCormick - "Using Social Media to Improve Your Winery Visit"
Featuring winemakers & winery owners:
- Paul Battilana, Casa Dea Estates Winery
- Sherry Martin, Karlo Estates
- Liz Dobson-Lacey, Lacey Estates Winery
1:30pm - 86'd with Ivy Knight from Toronto`s Drake Hotel - BBQ Sauce competition featuring top County wines and local chefs
2:30pm - John Szabo - Prince Edward County Pinot Noir and Chardonnay in a worldwide context: Master Sommelier John Szabo leads a fascinating comparative tasting with wines from other cool spots on the planet
3:30pm - Ange Aiello - Wine 101
4:00pm - Debbie Trenholm - "Terroir" Round Table discussion
Featuring winemakers:
- Glenn Symons, Lighthall Vineyards
- Norm Hardie, Norman Hardie Winery and Vineyard
4:45pm - Vanessa (Savvy Company) - Cheese comparison
5:15pm - Tyler Philip - Wine Cellar Techniques
Discover the benefits of cellaring your collection with wine writer Tyler Philip. This seminar and tasting will explain how to choose a storage location that will maximize the drinking potential of your best bottles
Get your Terroir tickets…
$35 in advance – Save $5 (inclusive of all taxes and online service charges)
$40 at the door (subject to availability)
Tickets can be purchased at www.countyterroir.ca
We are so excited that all of the wineries from Niagara-on-the-Lake are coming to Ottawa for our 3rd annual One Unforgettable Taste & Buy. That means that there will be over 50 wines for you to discover!
Many of the wineries will be serving wines from the highly awaited 2012 vintage. Remember that incredible spring, summer & fall we had? “2012 provided us with spectacular conditions for growing grapes. Ottawa will be the first to try these excellent wines.” Derek Barnett - winemaker & co-owner of Lailey Vineyard
Have a look at all of the wineries who will be featured at this event:
Taste, Discover & Order…
As you sip & savour the wines, mix & mingle with the award winning winemakers & winery owners. You will have the unique opportunity to taste, discover & order your new favorite wines - none that are available at LCBO. Stock up on your favorites wines & they will be delivered to your home or office – within a week!
BONUS: You can order ANY combination of outstanding wines from ANY of the featured wineries at this event & they will be delivered by courier for FREE when you order 12 bottles or more!
Where to start? No problem! Our Savvy Team of Sommeliers will be on hand to share recommendations of ‘must try wines’ to match your personal preferences.
This Taste & Buy event will sell out again this year, so avoid disappointment. Order your tickets on www.unforgettablenotlwines.eventbrite.com Use promo code: BESAVVY & you'll get an additional $10 off each ticket!
Event Details
DATE: Tuesday May 28, 2013
EVENT TIME: 7 to 9 pm
LOCATION: The NEW Canadian Agriculture & Food Museum Located at the Central Experimental Farm, 861 Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa
Plenty of free parking available.
ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY
Savvy Special! $55 per person when purchased before Saturday May 25, 2013 Regular ticket price: $65
$200 for a group of 4 people (save $15 each)
Price includes wine tasting, artisan cheeses, Savvy wine tasting glass & HST.
Click to order online now >>
Can't make it but want to order Niagara-on-the-Lake wines?
No problem! Simply email our Savvy Team or call us on 613-SAVVYCO (613-728-8926) & we'll make the arrangements for you. Place your order before May 30th to take advantage of the FREE shipping offer on a case of wine.
The Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake are returning to Ottawa to treat their ever-loyal fans to a double billed evening of a Rare Wines Tasting, followed by One Unforgettable Taste & Buy
. Hosted by Savvy Company, these back-to-back events will take place Tuesday May 28th in the new Canadian Agriculture and Food Museum located in the Central Experimental Farm, 861 Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa.
New this year, the Rare Wines Tasting will feature a selection of hard-to-find wines dating back to the early 1990s. “Winemakers are dusting off bottles from their private cellars to showcase how their finest wines have evolved. This is truly a unique experience for any Ontario wine enthusiast”, says Derek Barnett of Lailey Vineyard. Only 50 tickets will be available for this special first-of-its-kind event taking place from 5pm to 7pm, meeting winery owners and winemakers as guests enjoy the finest wines of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
The evening will continue with One Unforgettable Taste & Buy from 7pm to 9pm featuring wines from the 2012 vintage. “2012 provided us with spectacular conditions for growing grapes”, explains Lailey’s Barnett . “Ottawa will be the first to try these excellent wines.”
Returning to Ottawa for its 3rd year, One Unforgettable Taste & Buy provides the opportunity for guests to order any combination of their favorite wines. The featured wines are not available at the LCBO or Vintages. As an extra bonus, free shipping by courier will be offered for orders of 12 bottles or more. This is a perfect opportunity to stock up for summer entertaining.
Wineries to be featured at both events:
Advance Tickets Only
$75 per person for the back-to-back events of Rare Wines Tasting and One Unforgettable Taste & Buy. Only 50 tickets are available.
Admission to One Unforgettable Taste & Buy only is $55 per person when purchased before May 20, 2013 (regular $65).
Ticket price includes HST. Visit www.savvycompany.ca/events to purchase tickets and for event details.
What is a Taste & Buy event?
Event goers can sample featured wines and order directly from the winery. None of the wines are available at the LCBO or Vintages. Exclusive at this event, orders can be placed for ANY combination of wines from ANY of the wineries and the wines will be delivered by courier within a week. Savvy Company’s Sommeliers will be on hand to share wine recommendations and guide event goers to ‘must try wines’ based on their personal preferences.
About Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake
Every day, the Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake welcome guests into their Wine Country to savour the richness of the region and to experience the 27 distinct wineries, each with its own personality reflected in the wines they craft. Visit www.wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com. Follow on Twitter @NiagaraWine or find on Facebook at www.facebook.com/wineriesofniagaraonthelake
About Savvy Company
Savvy Company, www.savvycompany.ca, specializes in creative social experiences – making the enjoyment of wine accessible to all, exploring the worlds of craft beer and discovering artisan cheeses. Their team of accredited Sommeliers delight in designing wine, beer and food events and shining the spotlight on the people who make them. Savvy Selections is Ontario’s largest Wine of the Month Club featuring Ontario wines not available in the LCBO and delivered directly to the subscriber’s home or office. Follow on Twitter @SavvyCompany or find on Facebook at www.facebook.com/savvycompany
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Media who are interested in attending the One Unforgettable Taste & Buy, please contact Debbie Trenholm to be added to the guest list.
Media Contact
Debbie Trenholm
President & Sommelier
Savvy Company
debbie@savvycompany.ca
613.SAVVYCO (613.728.8926)
cell: 613-851-1785
@savvydebbie
Savvy Selections wine of the month club
Featuring Karlo Estates
- April 2013 -
The month of April has been all about Prince Edward County for us at Savvy Company. We are delighted to be hosting the 2nd annual County in the City wine tasting showcasing a number of County's winemakers and their latest wines. In addition to this Taste and Buy event, in this month's Savvy Selections, we are shining the spotlight on the rapidly growing County winery: Karlo Estates.
In your Savvy Selections, you will find:
- Pinot Gris VQA 2012 – you are the first to enjoy this wine as it was bottled just in time to be included in Savvy Selections.
- Cabernet Franc VQA 2011 – Christen your 1st BBQ of the season by uncorking this red wine.
- Quintus VQA 2010 – a unique blend of five Old World grape varietals; Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec & Petit Verdot. This can be cellared for 5+ years.
OPTIONAL WINES: Karlo makes The County’s only port wines. If you requested a bottle or two of the VanAlstine Red or White port in your delivery…you’re in for a treat!
During the harvest last year, we were hired by a corporate client to organize a day tour of The County. Many of the Sommeliers in our Savvy Team have visited ‘The County’, so, I invited our Marketing Co-ordinator Amanda Jackson to join me on this day trip as she hadn't visited yet. Enthusiastic & enchanted by the place & the people we visited, I also invited Amanda to write this month's Savvy eZine with me.
On the following pages, Amanda gives you her first impressions of The County & of her visit to Karlo Estates. You will find my sommelier tasting notes along with recipes from my kitchen that would pair with the featured wines.
Cheers & Enjoy!
Debbie & Savvy Team
Karlo Estates Winery Presented by Amanda Jackson
Rarely a day goes by at the Savvy Company office without someone mentioning Prince Edward County…or 'The County' as it is also fondly known. This rapidly growing wine region is flourishing with many family run & boutique wineries. Due to the small supply of wines made (at the moment!), it is not common to find County wines in the LCBO,unless you come to our Savvy Events or occasionally you might see them on a restaurant wine list. Personally, I have not tasted many County wines so when Debbie invited me to join her on a private tour, I jumped at the chance – I like meeting new people and tasting new wines, so this was a real day out for me!
My first impression of The County
I was AMAZED. Starting with the brief & beautiful ferry ride across the Bay, driving along the main streets of the quaint town of Picton, enjoying the scenic countryside , meeting the down-to-earth winemakers who welcomed us at each stop....and of course the impressive wines.
Karlo Estates was the last winery we visited during our action-packed tour. Debbie often talks about Karlo Estates and now I understand why it's on her 'must visit’ list when clients ask her for trip tips.
"Watch out, Richard's laugh is infectious! You will hear him before you see him." Debbie described the larger-than-life and genuine character of none other than winery owner and winemaker Richard Karlo.
This wine maker started young
Richard grew up making wine - literally. He began at the young age of 8 watching his father make wine at home. Fast forward many years, Rich joined the Amateur Winemakers of Ontario (AWO) knowing far too well that crafting wine would become more than just a hobby. While the group is called “Amateur” they are really anything but. The AWO is where like-minded winemakers get together to learn new techniques from one another & exchange ideas about the winemaking process. And Richard did not stop there. He has gone on to achieve the designation of Master Winemaker - his father must have been proud.
...and became a wine achiever!
During our visit, I learned that Richard has been winning awards for his wines long before he had his own winery. He turned heads when his first release of the 2008 Van Alstine Port was named by Master Sommelier John Szabo as one of the “Top 10 Cutting Edge Wines of the World”. What an honour! If you had requested a bottle of this port to be included in this month`s delivery – enjoy this world class wine. It is a favorite in my home and I make a point of recommending it to my friends who enjoy port And Richard is winning awards for his business too. While we were on the tour, he was excited to share his most recent news: he was just named a 2012 finalist of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Obviously Karlo Estates Winery is one to watch on many levels!
The pride that everyone involved in the winery has for their wines, as well as their growing business is evident. The large red barn, dating to the Loyalist settlement in the early 1900s, has wine barrels tucked into every corner. The warm lighting in the barn was inviting, and made me feel more like going into someone’s living room because the ambiance that Richard and his partner Sherry Martin made us feel so welcome to be in this beautifully preserved barn that they have lovingly revitalized over the years. "We intentionally left the barn rustic because we didn’t want to change the character and charm of the building", Sherry explained as she lead our group up to the second floor into her art studio that doubles as a private tasting bar.
Tasting our way through the Karlo wine list
As we sipped & enjoyed each and every one of the wines on Karlo's wine list (all eight of them!), Sherry had a personal story for each wine as well as offering us tips of her never fail wine appreciation how to's using our Eyes, Nose and Mouth.
My first wine tour of The County including our lovely afternoon spent visiting Karlo Estates was definitely a memorable one – and soon to be repeated!. I couldn’t wait to share stories with friends & family and others in the Savvy Team of allf the new discoveries we had made that day. I am confident that you too will enjoy your Karlo wines that Debbie and our Sommeliers selected for you. I highly recommend you visit Karlo Estates on your next getaway to The County.
An accomplished winemaker and bridge builder
When you visit Karlo, be sure to take a walk to the middle of the vineyard to admire the bridge that arches over the creek running between two vineyards. This bridge was a 'weekend project' hand built by Rich, stonemasons & friends in 2007. And as if one project was not enough, they also built the stone wall around the heritage barn using pieces of limestone from the property. Both were constructed using a technique known as dry stone construction – hand built by fitting stones together - no mortar (or glue) is used. This is the connection to the keystone with the 'K' on the top of each cork & on the wine label.
Cheers & enjoy your Savvy Selections!
~ SAVVY SOMMELIER TASTING NOTES ~
Pinot Gris VQA 2011, $21.00
This wine is not even available yet at the winery! Bottled just in time to be included in your Savvy Selections, this is a delicious spring time sipping wine. If you see a light copper hue to the wine, don`t be alarmed as more winemakers are crafting Pinot Gris leaving them on their skins for a bit longer than typical for making white wine.
Fully ripened Pinot Gris grapes have a bronze like colour to them, so winemakers sometimes leave the juice in contact with the skins for longer than usual white wine making techniques to extract a warm hued colour that adds to the character of the wine. Taking this approach, you find Pinot Gris from clear pale white to those that will remind with a salmon colour of a Rosé wine. Either way it comes in the glass you will enjoy the crisp, dry & refreshing taste.
Savvy Sommelier Tasting Notes: Refreshing aromas of crunchy apple (or perhaps it is apple sauce?), fresh juicy pear with a warmth of nutmeg. With each sip, the apple & pear continues with honey, bees wax & a nice acidity in the texture that gives it a zip in the finish. And that finish doesn`t go away! It lingers forever.
Suggested Food Pairing: As mentioned before, this is a great sipping wine & can be enjoyed on its own after being chilled for 30 minutes in the fridge. Serve with hors d'oeuvres, pork chops or the Pistachio Crusted Sea Scallops – recipe follows.
Cabernet Franc VQA 2011 $24.00
From the outstanding 2010 vintage, this wine will not disappoint. Rich shows his talent in this wine as it is delicious & extremely well crafted. Enjoy!
Savvy Sommelier Tasting Notes: 'This wine makes me hungry', Savvy Sommelier Debbie declared as she swirls & sips this Cabernet Franc. Plush aromas of dark plums, warm spices & wood that carries into the taste adding in dark chocolate, ripe juicy cherry with some roasted red pepper. There are subtle tannins that will fall into the background as soon as you introduce food – especially grilled meats hot off the BBQ. This is a well balanced medium bodied wine with a long finish that begs you to have another sip…and another…and another.
Suggested Food Pairing: Winter is behind us, it is time to fire up the BBQ and grill everything under the sun! Debbie offers her Coffee Steak Rub recipe to kick start your BBQ season. Yes…coffee! Double the recipe & keep in a jar in the fridge for anytime you fire up the BBQ.
Cellaring: This wine is ready to be enjoyed now or will continue to soften if you lay down in your cellar for 2 to 3 more years. But why wait?
Quintus VQA 2010 $35.00
Ready for something BIG? Made with grapes that Rich sources from vineyards throughout the province (this is why it states VQA Ontario on the label), this is a unique blend of grapes from the impressive 2010 vintage. This is a blend of 40% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc, 15% Petit Verdot and 10% Malbec. This wine has the staying power to last in your cellar for many years to come.
Savvy Sommelier Tasting Notes: Everything about this wine in black – ink in colour then continues into the heavy aromas of black fruit (think dried figs, prunes, dates) with tastes of fresh earth (the smell of turning over the soil in your garden in the spring), freshly ground black pepper, Austrian black licorice with a punch of blackberry cassis. Full bodied with good tannins and a long deep & warm finish. Gorgeous! A real treat to drink.
Suggested Food Pairing: Bring on the beef! Prime rib or roast beef with all of the trimmings.
Decanting & Cellaring: Recommend to decant for 2 hours before serving. Drinks well now & it will also cellar 4-6 years.
~ RECIPES TO ENJOY WITH YOUR SAVVY SELECTIONS ~
With Karlo Estates Pinot Gris VQA 2011…
Pistachio Crusted Sea Scallops
From the kitchen of Savvy Sommelier Debbie
Serves 4
Ingredients
8 Large Sea Scallops (size U-10)
200g unsalted pistachios, shelled and lightly toasted
150g fresh bread crumbs
4 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped fine
1 lemon, juiced
75 ml grainy mustard
75 ml sour cream
Ground black pepper, to taste
Sea salt - to taste
100ml Canola oil
Method
- Preheat oven to 375 F
- Place chilled scallops on a paper towel for 2 minutes to absorb any surface liquid. Season liberally with salt and pepper and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Blend toasted pistachios in a food processor until fine. Mix with bread crumbs and thyme and season with salt and pepper.
- Coat pan with oil and heat until very hot. Sear scallops on one side until brown and crisp (2 minutes). Remove scallops from pan and place on parchment lined baking sheet, seared side up.
- Mix sour cream, mustard and lemon juice and spoon over each scallop.
- Press the seared side into the bread mixture to form a crust. Bake for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve as an entree or over a salad of spring greens.
With Karlo Estates Cabernet Franc VQA 2010…
Coffee Rub for BBQ steak
Savvy Sommelier Debbie first enjoyed this recipe at a backyard BBQ at Charlie Pillitteri (of Pillitteri Estates Winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake). Think coffee on steak is strange? Think again! The coffee beans caramelized while BBQing, offering a rich earthy flavour that will be enhanced with this robust wine.
Ingredients
½ cup whole coffee beans
¼ cup black peppercorns
¼ cup Montreal Steak spice
Steaks – any type of cut – as you like them!
Method
- With an electric coffee grinder, whiz coffee beans and peppercorns lightly. The result should be a coarse mixture.
- In a bowl add ground mixture with Montreal Steak spice.This recipe can be doubled and stored in a jar or Ziploc container in the fridge.
- When ready to BBQ, rub ample amount of mixture on both sides of steak.
- Set aside for 20-30 minutes before putting on the grill.
- Cook steak to your liking.Serve with grilled asparagus & other springtime vegetables.
With Karlo Estates Quintus VQA 2010…
Dijon Herbed Prime Rib
Farm Boy weekly recipes
Serves 4 to 6 – depending on the size of meat
Ingredients
1Tbsp Balsamic vinegar
1/4 tsp ground cloves
4 Tbsp grainy Dijon mustard
2 Tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped
2 Tbsp fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper ,to taste
1 bone in rib roast (2.5KG/6LB)
6 medium garlic cloves, quartered lengthwise
Method
- Pre-heat oven to 400 F
- Make small incisions all over the roast.
- Insert the garlic into the holes.
- Place the roast in a roasting pan.
- Mix the remaining ingredients into a paste and rub entire roast evenly.
- Roast for 25 minutes then reduce heat to 350 F and continue cooking for about 1 and a 1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 135 F(for rare).
- Transfer roast to a cutting board and allow to rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite mashed potatoes recipe or buttered beets!
With Karlo Estates VanAlstine Ports…
Hazelnut Torte
It is not often that we include a dessert recipe, yet both the Karlo Estates ports would be great with this nut & slightly sweet dessert.
From Debbie's kitchen – a perfect make ahead dessert that adds WOW factor to any dinner party
Serves 8 to 10
This recipe doubles well & cake layers can be frozen until needed.
Ingredients
Torte
4 eggs
¾ c white sugar
2 T flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
1 c hazelnuts
Mocha filling
2 T butter
½ t vanilla
1 c icing sugar
1 tsp cocoa – heck, put more in!
2 T strong hot coffee
'Icing'
325 mL container of 35% cream – whipped with a drizzle of Tia Maria (or white sugar) folded in at the end to lightly sweeten.
Method - Torte
- In processor/blender whirl eggs & sugar until thoroughly mixed.
- Add flour, baking powder and hazelnuts. Whirl away.
- Don’t chop nuts up too fine.
- Keep some chunky bits.
- Pour into 2 well greased & floured layer pans (circular).
- Bake at 350 for 20 mins.
Method – Filling & Finishing
Cream icing sugar & butter.
Add strong coffee, cocoa & vanilla.
Mix until smooth.
Spread between layers. (Lick beaters until absolutely clean that you don’t need to wash them!)
Cover top & sides with whipped cream. Decorate as you like
TIP: Best if cake is made a day ahead to allow flavours to mellow.
Debbie's tasting notes for the unique County made ports…
WHITE Van Alstine Port 2010 - A unique wine is a blend of Frontenac Blanc & Gewürztraminer grapes, this lightly sweet wine has aromas of fresh apricots, mandarin & flowers leap from the glass that continues through in the taste with a refreshing acidity combined with toasted nuts (hazelnut perhaps?). Serve slightly chilled with light & refreshing desserts such as fruit salad, lemon tart or pound cakes…or this torte!
RED Van Alstine Port 2009 - A delicious dark colour with concentrated aromas of black cherry, blackberry, dark fruit cake & warm spices that continue along with tastes of red liquorice & cedar. Aged in French & Hungarian oak barrels, this delicious port has a finish that warms you up with each sip. Bring on desserts with dark chocolate or enjoy with a plate of artisan cheeses & roasted nuts. This torte has just the right combination of nut and chocolate tastes without going overboard with sweetness. You might want to chill the port for 15 minutes in the fridge before serving. Notice how the taste changes as the port warms up.
Enjoy your Savvy Selections!
Since I began Savvy Company 10 years ago, there are two questions that I am constantly being asked:
"I was away on vacation in 'wherever you've just been' and found this outstanding wine. Is there a way that I can order more & have it shipped to Ontario?
The winery owner said that they would do it no problem!"
"I would like to get involved in the wine industry. How do I become a wine agent?"
If I had a loonie…no, make that a toonie….for each time these questions come up in a conversation while I have a glass of wine in hand, I would be drinking Champagne every day!
The wine industry is fascinating. I have found that the people involved are typically interesting, well-traveled and have a joie de vivre that is contagious. There are so many wine events for the genereral public, such as the Gourmet Food & Wine Show in Toronto or recently-hosted in Ottawa, County in the City where winemakers from Prince Edward County were showcasing their wines - white wines, red wines, sparkling wines, you name it they make it.
While you are at these events to enjoy wines, the winemakers are often looking for people to help them sell their wine. Becoming a representative of a winery while holding down your day job or starting a wine agency from the ground up are two ways to be a part of the rapidly growing wine industry.
Let’s crunch the numbers…
During 2011-2012 fiscal year, the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) reported sales of over $3.2 billion worth of imported alcoholic beverages - a 6% increase over the previous year - even in a challenging economic environment. More than any other consumer product, the alcoholic beverage industry has the ability to weather periods of slow or negative economic growth. There is the saying that ‘people will drink in the good times and they will need a drink in bad times too.’
Statistics Canada recently reported on April 11,2013 that net income among the provincial and territorial liquor authorities rose 3.6 per cent to $6.1-billion. More than half this amount is from the sale of imported wine, beer & spirits.
There is no ‘how to’ manual about working in the wine industry. In fact, there are rarely job postings on Workopolis or Craig’s List either. Those who know of wine jobs are often ‘in the biz.’ In fact, just last week two wineries contacted me asking if would recommend an agent to sell their wines.
So how to get a jump start on a job in the wine industry?
Again this year, we are hosting a seminar entitled ‘Importing Wine for Pleasure and Profit’ on Saturday June 8, 2013 by renowned industry expert Steven Trenholme. Steven conducts this seminar in Toronto twice a year and it sells out quickly because he knows everything AND everyone in the wine industry. In his 30+ year career, Steven has been a wine agent, a brand manager for Mosel wines (of Germany), the Canadian representative for South African Wines, a ‘head hunter’ for numerous wine companies to recruit people as wine agents and to top it all off, manager of a national wine agency. Steven has the ‘how tos’ for the above two questions that I am always asked!
“As Canadian's thirst for more diversity in the alcoholic beverages that they consume, this presents a very real opportunity for new agents & importers,” states Steven Trenholme.
If you are intrigued about the wine industry or are already an agent, you will find Steven’s day-long seminar invaluable. Many of Ontario’s top wine importers and agents started their careers after attending this seminar. Several Savvy Sommeliers on my team – myself included - have gained valuable insight to importing wines, as well as learning the ins and outs of the operations and processes of the LCBO & the SAQ in Quebec.
“There are still hundreds of wine suppliers around the world actively looking for importers to represent them in Canada, so there are certainly opportunities to develop a full or part-time career in the wine industry”, reports Steven.
Rest assured that your head will be spinning from all of the information you collect at his seminar, yet Steven is only a few clicks away to help you get started or answer additional questions. He is a wealth of knowledge and THE man to know if you are curious about working in the wine industry or importing your favorite wines back after a trip abroad.
"I have taken a few courses where 'the business of wine' has been a required component, but NOTHING has compared to the relevancy of Steven's content. If you are considering a career in the beverage alcohol business in Ontario, you need this information. Steven is experienced, professional and he offers sound advice delivered succinctly in one day," offers Alyson Carmichael, LCBO Manager & Product Consultant in Oakville.
Click here to register & for more details about Importing Wine for Pleasure and Profit seminar at The Old Mill in Toronto on Saturday June 8th, 2013
Back by popular demand, for the 2nd year in a row, we are hosting the County in the City wine tasting, giving you the opportunity to Taste & Buy wines from Prince Edward County. If you haven't heard, 'The County' - as it is known - is Canada’s fastest growing wine region with over 30 wineries and counting…and it is only a 3 hour drive from Ottawa & Toronto.
This event is almost sold out. Buy your tickets >>
This event is about tasting, discovering & ordering …
Have a look below at the large selection of outstanding wines that will be uncorked to enjoy. None of these wines are available at the LCBO.
Exclusive at this event: you can order ANY combination of outstanding wines from ANY of the featured wineries & they will be delivered by courier to your home or office. Free shipping on all orders of 12 bottles or more!
Featured wineries & wines:
2011 Dea's Cuvée Sparkling Wine $18.95
2009 Riesling $16.95
2009 Chardonnay Reserve $24.95
2009 Cabernet Franc $18.95
2010 Pinot Noir $19.95
County Cider Company - showcasing their hard apple ciders
Waupoos Premium Cider (4 x 341ml) $13.35
County Cider (1L) $7.85
Waupoos Peach Cider (1L) $9.95
Waupoos Feral Cider (1L) $9.95
Tortured Path Cider (500ml) $7.95
Prince Edward Ice Cider (375ml) $29.95
2012 Pinot Grigio $23.00
2012 Pinot Gris Rosé $22.00
2011 Merlot $24.00
2010 Cabernet Sauvignon $26.00
2012 Cru X White Light $25.00
2010 Cru X Pinot Noir $29.95
2011 Pinot Gris $18.00
2010 Gewürztraminer $20.00
2011 Chardonnay $32.00
2009 Friends Rosé $18.00
2010 The Admirals Blend (Pinot Noir) $25.00
2009 Just Desserts (Late Harvest Style) $25.00
2010 Riesling $22.00
2010 Chardonnay CHOA $25.00
2011 Frontenac Gris Rosé $16.00
2010 Cabernet Merlot $24.00
2010 Merlot $24.00
2010 Pinot Noir $29.00
2010 Quintus $35.00
2010 The 5th Element $39.00
2010 VanAlstine White Port $29.00
2009 VanAlstine Red Port $29.00
2009 Chardonnay $20.00
2011 Voyageur Rosé $15.00
2011 Portage Pinot Noir - $25
2009 Pinot Noir, Little Creek – Closson $29.00
2012 Voyageur Vidal $17.00
2008 Pineaux Sauvage (a Botrytis Affected Pinot Noir) $25.00 - Special price. Regular $50.00
2012 Progression Sparkling $20.00
2009 Chardonnay $25.00
2010 Chardonnay $25.00
2011 Gewürztraminer $25.00
2010 Pinot Noir $25.00
2008 Bella Riserva Chardonnay $18.00
2009 Bella Riserva Chardonnay $22.00
2009 Otto Pinot Noir $24.00
2007 Otto Pinot Noir $30.00
2008 Top Dog Pinot Noir $24.00
2009 Top Dog Pinot Noir $30.00
2011 Pinot Gris Cuvée County $19.95
2010 Cabernet Franc Cuvée County $24.95
2010 JCR Chardonnay Rosehall Vineyard $29.95
2010 JCR Pinot Noir Rosehall Vineyard $39.00
2011 Gewürztraminer $16.95
2012 Dunes Red $14.95
2010 French Kiss (Cabernet Merlot) $24.95
201 LOVE Cassis Aperitivo $14.95
2011 Riesling $23.00
2010 Chardonnay $25.00
2009 Cabernet Franc $22.00
2010 Pinot Noir $30.00
The Grange of Prince Edward County Vineyard & Estate Winery
2011 Estate Chardonnay $15.95
2011 GPE Fumé Blanc $24.95
2009 Select Gamay Noir $15.95
2009 Estate Cabernet Franc $17.95
County in the City - details
DATE: Thursday April 18th
EVENT STARTS: 7pm
EVENT ENDS: 9pm
LOCATION: Panorama Room - 2nd floor at National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin Street, Ottawa
Buy your tickets >>
Can't make it but want to order wines?
No problem! Simply call our Savvy Team on 613-SAVVYCO (613-728-8926) to make the arrangements for you. Place your order before April 20th and you can take advantage of the free shipping offer on a case of wine.
We look forward to seeing you at County in the City.
Everyone is welcome to join us!
Contact Savvy Company for more information about other Savvy Events
www.savvycompany.ca
613.SAVVYCO
613.728.8926
Cheers!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: APRIL 12, 2013
Invitation to Media Launch in Ottawa
You are cordially invited to experience a taste of the upcoming Great Canadian Cheese Festival. In its third year, the expanded Cheese Festival returns to historic Crystal Palace in Picton, in the heart of Prince Edward County, on June 1 & 2, 2013. This year there will be additional exhibitors, vendors and new features in the adjacent Prince Edward Curling Club.
The Cheese Festival is the only event in Canada to bring together cheesemakers from coast-to-coast. Cheese lovers, foodies and culinary tourists can meet to learn, talk, taste and buy the best in artisan and farmstead cheese—as well as sample fine Ontario wine, craft beer and a cornucopia of artisan foods.
Join us at the Ottawa Media Launch to meet Festival founder and director Georgs Kolesnikovs who will provide a preview of this year's Festival offerings. Also meet an artisan cheesemaker and other artisan producers as you sample their creations. You will enjoy sipping on wine from Casa-Dea Estates Winery from Prince Edward County and craft beer from Ontario’s Creemore Springs Brewery.
One of the leading attractions at this year’s Cheese Festival will be "A Taste of Ottawa" pavilion featuring members of the Ottawa Specialty Food Association, small-batch food producers who make high quality and delicious creations ranging from cookies to unique smoked salt products.
New this year, long-time Festival partner Savvy Company will introduce "Savvy Sip 'n Shop." Now, Festival-goers will have the convenience of ordering any Ontario wines and craft beers at the Festival for home delivery within a week.
Media Launch Details
DATE: Thursday May 2nd, 2013
TIME: 2pm reception, 2:30pm remarks & presentations
LOCATION: The new Canada Agriculture & Food Museum at the Experimental Farm 861 Prince of Wales Drive, Ottawa (free parking onsite)
RSVP: www.cheesefestival2013.eventbrite.com or debbie@savvycompany.ca
About The Great Canadian Cheese Festival:
The Great Canadian Cheese Festival is produced by Cheese Lover Productions with the generous support of Celebrate Ontario. Dairy Farmers of Canada is Diamond Sponsor, Bay of Quinte Region is Gold Sponsor and Savvy Company is Presenting Partner.
Advance tickets are available online at www.cheesefestival.ca
Festival contact:
Georgs Kolesnikovs, Festival Director
Cheese Lover Productions
905.837.0102
georgs@cheeselover.ca
Ottawa media contact:
Debbie Trenholm, President
Savvy Company
613.SAVVYCO (728-8926)
debbie@savvycompany.ca
