Back by popular demand in Ottawa for its 3^rd year in a row, 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.

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:

Between The Lines Estate Winery

2011 Gewürztraminer $14.95

2011 Cabernet Franc $15.95

Cattail Creek Estate Winery

2012 Simply Stainless Chardonnay Estate $16.95

2010 Pinot Noir Estate $18.95

Château des Charmes

2010 Chardonnay Musqué Estate Bottled $16.95

2010 Gamay "Droit" St. David's Bench $14.95

Coyote’s Run Estate Winery

2011 Red Paw Pinot Gris $17.95

2011 Red Paw Pinot Noir $19.95

Diamond Estates Winery

2012 Lakewiew Cellars Syrah Rosé Reserve $16.95

2010 Lakeview Cellars Baco Noir Reserve $19.95

Hinterbrook Winery

2011 Riesling $18.00

2011 Rosé $16.00

Inniskillin

2012 Discovery Series P3 $19.95

2011 Merlot Reserve $22.95

Jackson-Triggs Winery

2012 Grand Reserve Sauvignon Blanc $19.95

2010 Grand Reserve Shiraz $19.95

Joseph's Estate Wines

2010 Pinot Gris $13.95

2009 Baco Merlot $10.95

Konzelmann Estate Winery

2012 Cabernet Sauvignon $12.75

2012 Shiraz $12.75

Lailey Vineyard

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

Palatine Hills Estate Winery

2011 Riesling $12.85

2010 Cabernet Franc Neufeld Vineyard $19.95

Peller Estates

2012 Sauvignon Blanc Private Reserve $18.95

2011 Cabernet Franc Private Reserve $21.95

Pillitteri Estates Winery

2011 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented $15.00

2011 Dry Rosé $15.00

Pondview Estate Winery

2011 Riesling $16.00

2011 Chardonnay Barrel Fermented $25.00

Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery

2011 Chardonnay Estate $24.00

2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate $39.00

Reif Estate Winery

2012 Fortune Cabernet Rosé $12.95

2011 The Magician Pinot Noir/Shiraz $19.95

Riverview Cellars Winery

2012 Sauvignon Blanc $16.95

2011 Salvatores Malbec Reserve $29.95

Small Talk Vineyards

2011 Sauvignon Blanc $14.95

RSVP White Blend $14.95

Southbrook Vineyards

2012 Triomphe Chardonnay $21.95

2008 Triomphe Cabernet Merlot $23.95

Stratus Vineyards 

2012 Wild Ass Rosé $19.95

2009 Tollgate Fumé Blanc $24.95

Strewn Winery

2012 Fumé Blanc Terroir $18.95

2011 Meritage Canadian Oak $18.95

Sunnybrook Farm Estate Winery

Burgundy Plum $23.95

Chocolate Embrace (375 mL) $24.95

Trius Winery at Hillebrand

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 1^st 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!

We are so excited that all of the wineries from Niagara-on-the-Lake are coming to Ottawa for our 3^rd  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

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 30^th to take advantage of the FREE shipping offer on a case of wine.

Back by popular demand, for the 2^nd 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:

Casa Dea Estates Winery

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

Devil’s Wishbone Winery

2012 Pinot Grigio $23.00

2012 Pinot Gris Rosé $22.00

2011 Merlot $24.00

2010 Cabernet Sauvignon $26.00

Exultet Winery

2012 Cru X White Light $25.00

2010 Cru X Pinot Noir $29.95

Harwood Estates Vineyards

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

Karlo Estates

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 5^th Element $39.00

2010 VanAlstine White Port $29.00

2009 VanAlstine Red Port $29.00

Keint-He Winery & Vineyards

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

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

Rosehall Run Vineyards

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

Sandbanks Estate Winery

2011 Gewürztraminer $16.95

2012 Dunes Red $14.95

2010 French Kiss (Cabernet Merlot) $24.95

201 LOVE Cassis Aperitivo $14.95

Stanners Vineyard 

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 20^th 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!

Chances are we have all been invited to a wine and cheese party. Not only is it a relatively simple way to entertain friends, neighbours or even clients - a glass of wine and a chunk of cheese are a classic pairing. With a wide variety of wines to choose from along with an array of soft, creamy, hard and even blue cheeses, there is a different taste sensation waiting to be enjoyed.

Which wine goes with which cheese?

The best way to figure this out is to experiment. My rule of thumb is the flavour of the cheese guides you to determine whether you may enjoy a light wine or a full bodied wine. Cheeses with mild taste such as young Cheddar, Feta, Goat Cheese, Parmesan, Havarti and Brie would be best with a glass of crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris or light bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or Gamay. When you bite into a chunk of cheese with bold aromas and tastes such as Gouda, Gorgonzola, blue cheeses, Stilton or older cheeses that are hard and crumbly, be sure to have a glass of heavier white - oaked Chardonnay, Fumé Blanc - or full bodied red wines – Merlot, Shiraz, red Zinfandel or red blends. With a great cheese and wine combo, you are in for a delicious treat!

What is a Wine & Cheese with a TWIST?

Go beyond just having wine and cheese on hand and have winemakers and cheese makers at the event too. Maybe even a cheese Sommelier!

“It is so fascinating to meet the people who make the wine and cheese we all enjoy.” comments Amanda Jackson who regularly attended Savvy Company’s wine tastings and cheese classes and now organizes them at Savvy Company. “Adding the people who make the wines provides more learning and a great atmosphere, they always have interesting stories and want to share their knowledge with you. After all, they produce their own wines for us to enjoy.”

Savvy Company is hosting two Wine & Cheese with a TWIST events that will take place in small venues and there will be a limited number of tickets available to make sure that each ticketholder has plenty of opportunity to chat with each of the winemakers who are coming from their boutique wineries in Prince Edward County and Niagara.  We invite you to join us in Rockcliffe Park on Tuesday January 29th or Westboro on Wednesday January 30th.

See the full list of Ontario wines that will be showcased those 2 nights.

And more winemakers are coming to Ottawa at these events:

LCBO’s Taste Ontario! – Monday February 11 at the National Art Gallery $65. To buy tickets call the LCBO on 1-800-266-4764

California Wine Fair - Friday, April 5th at Westin Ottawa. Tickets go on sale February 1st on  www.calwine.ca

Don’t be shy...ask winemakers ANY questions!

Winemakers are some of the most interesting people and they enjoy meeting the people who buy their wine.  Here are some conversation starters:

How was this year’s harvest?

In the fall of 2012, Winemakers in Ontario broke records and started picking grapes earlier than ever – in some cases 3 to 5 weeks earlier than they have in the past 40 years.

What is happening at the winery right now?

With the cold snap this week, many have started to pick the grapes left on the vines for icewine

How did you become a winemaker?

Be ready to chat for awhile with this question! They may bend your ear for a bit with the story.

What is your favorite drink after work?

Watch out, the answer might be beer!

Some SAVVY wine tasting tips...

At these fun walk-about wine tastings, it can be overwhelming with so many bottle of wines open to try.

Be selective – You don’t have to try every wine. Decide ahead of time to taste a certain grape varieties (Riesling, Merlot, etc) then discover the differences from winemaker to winemaker.

Spitting is OK – Sommeliers do it all the time! By spitting, you’ll be able to taste more wines during the event. At each table, wineries will always provide a spittoon. If it is not there – don’t be shy & ask for it!

Dumping your wine is fine –Remember that this is a wine TASTING. There is no need to finish all of the wine in your glass. When you’ve tasted enough, it’s perfectly ok to pour the remaining wine into a spittoon. Rest assured that the winemaker won’t take it as a signal that you didn’t enjoy the wine, rather it’s a sign you’re ready to move on to taste the next wine.

Refresh with water - take a break from sipping wine and have a glass of water. This will give you a chance to relax and reflect on the great wines that you have and the water will refresh your palette.

Most of all….have fun!

-Debbie

Everything is all set for our next wine tasting events: Wine & Cheese with a TWIST! Tuesday January 29th in Rockcliffe Park & Wednesday January 30th in Westboro.  We are delighted to be hosting 7 wineries from Prince Edward County and Niagara-on-the-Lake who will showcase their best wines.

Are you interested in joining us? A limited number of tickets are left!

Here is a sneak peak of the wines that are ready for you to enjoy – most you will not find at the LCBO – so this is a perfect evening out sipping and stocking up on new wine discoveries.  There will be over 30 different outstanding wines ranging in prices from $15 to $40 - sparkling wines, lots of white and red wines & a dessert wine.  There's definitely something for everyone.

Taste a glass…buy a bottle

Exclusive at this event you can order ANY combination of outstanding wines from ANY of the wineries & they will be delivered by courier to your home or office. Free shipping on all orders of 12 bottles or more!

With so many wines and so little time, members of  our Savvy Sommeliers will be there to help you sharing wine tips & recommendations to find wines that you will undoubtedly enjoy.

We're hosting 2 back-to-back wine tastings!

If you can't attend either event, don't despiar...you can still place your order with us.  Have a look at the list of wines that will be showcased and email us or call 613-SAVVYCO (728-8926) & we'll be happy to make the arrangements for your order.

Cheers,
Debbie & the Savvy Team

Featured wineries & wines:

Casa Dea Estates Winery from Prince Edward County

• 2011 Dea's Cuvée Sparkling Wine $18.95
• 2010 Unoaked Chardonnay $15.95
• 2010 Pinot Noir $19.95
• 2008 Cabernet Franc Reserve $24.95

Fielding Estates Winery (Beamsville Bench - aka Niagara Escarpment) 

• 2011 Viognier $19.95     Special price (regular $25.95)
• 2010 Merlot $29.95
• 2010 Syrah $34.95
• 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon $34.95     Special price (regular $44.95)

 Lighthall Vineyards (Prince Edward County)

• 2009 Chardonnay $25.00
• 2010 Chardonnay $25.00
• 2011 Gewurztraminer $25.00
• 2010 Pinot Noir $25.00

Palatine Hills Estates Winery (Niagara-on-the-Lake)

• 2010 Neufeld Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc $18.95
• 2010 Neufeld Vineyard Chardonnay $22.95
• 2010 Neufeld Vineyard Cabernet Franc$19.95
• 2010 Neufeld Vineyard Meritage $29.95

Pondview Estates Winery (Niagara-on-the-Lake)

• 2010 Cabernet Merlot $18.95
• 2011 Bella Terra Pinot Gris $29.95
• 2010 Bella Terra Cabernet Franc $29.95
• 2010 Bella Terra Meritage $39.95
• 2011 Select Late Harvest18.00 (375ml)

Rosewood Estate Winery & Meadery (Beamsville Bench)

• 2011 Long Rows White $13.00
• 2011 Mimas Block Riesling $20.00
• 2009 Merlot Reserve $32.00
• 2008 Mead ROYALE $15.00

Sue-Ann Staff Winery (Beamsville Bench)

• 2011 Sparkling and SASSY $27.95
• 2011 Grace’s Dry Riesling $21.00
• 2011 Pinot Grigio $21.00
• 2010 Baco Noir $14.95

Shake off the winter blues & join our team of Savvy Sommeliers for a fun wine tasting the “coolest” wines from Niagara & Prince Edward County boutique wineries.

These back to back events will take place in small & intimate venues so that you can spend the evening chatting with the winemakers & winery owners about their vineyard, winemaking styles & all the goings on at the winery during the winter months....and stock up on your favorite wines too!

ROCKCLIFFE PARK

Tuesday January 29 @ 7pm
Rockcliffe Community Hall - 380 Springfield Rd

BUY TICKETS > >

~ OR~

WESTBORO

Wednesday January 30 @ 7pm 
Exposure Gallery – 1255 Wellington St West (2^nd floor of Thyme & Again)

BUY TICKETS > >

What is the TWIST?  

At these Taste & Buy events, there will be a wide selection of hard-to-find wines that are not available at the LCBO.  This gives you the unique opportunity to a taste a variety of sparkling, white, red & dessert wines that you can order your new favorite wines that will be delivered directly to your home or office – within a week!

Feature wineries include:

Casa Dea Estates Winery (Prince Edward County) - one of the first wineries in The County will showcase their new range of wines.

Fielding Estates Winery (Beamsville Bench - aka Niagara Escarpment)  - from sparkling to reds, their wines are fantastic!

Lighthall Vineyards (Prince Edward County) - one of the newest boutique wineries in The County...and their wines are turning heads!

Palatine Hills Estates Winery (Niagara-on-the-Lake) - one of the oldest vineyards in the region makes spectacular reds, whites & bubblies

Pondview Estates Winery (Niagara-on-the-Lake) - they'll be serving their Bella Terra Reserve wines

Rosewood Estate Winery & Meadery (Beamsville Bench) - outstanding white wines & a lovely Pinot Noir awaits...and meads too (winespeak for wine made with honey)

Sue-Ann Staff Winery (Beamsville Bench) - international winemaking star will charm you with her vivacious personality & her impressive wines.

You can purchase your favorite artisan cheese too!

And as wine & cheese is a classic pairing, Vanessa - our Cheese Sommelier - will be on hand at the Artisan Cheese Bar serving handcrafted cheeses from Ontario & Québec that may be purchased to take home with you that night.

ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY

HELD OVER! $55 per person before January 25 (regular $65)

$200 for a group of 4 people (save $15 per person)

Only 50 tickets available per event.  Click to buy yours ...

ROCKCLIFFE PARK event on January 29 >>

WESTBORO event on January 30 >>

Price includes wine tasting, cheeses, HST & a special Savvy wine tasting glass

Share this invitation with your friends - everyone is welcome.

These events are hosted in partnership with:

There are many reasons to raise a glass at Sip, Savour & 'Selebrate’! Ontario wineries have just finished picking this year’s stellar grape harvest (predicted to be the best vintage yet!), the Ontario craft beer industry is booming with impressive varieties of craft brews…and Savvy Company is celebrating its 10^th year in business.  Bring your dancing shoes as there will be a jazz band too!

Casa-Dea Estates Winery – Prince Edward County
2009 Chardonnay $15.95
2010 Pinot Gris $18.95
2010 Gamay $14.95
2009 Cabernet Franc $18.95

Cattail Creek Family Estate Winery – Niagara-on-the-Lake
2009 Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2009 $10.95
2009 Estate Merlot 2009 $16.95
2007 Estate Cabernet Merlot $14.95
2009 Select Late Harvest Cabernet Sauvignon $24.95

Château des Charmes – Niagara-on-the-Lake
2008 Sparkling Rosé $28.95
2008 Gewurztraminer $19.95
2010 Equuleus $40
2007 Late Harvest Riesling $12.95
(Special price! Regular $21.95)

Closson Chase Winery – Prince Edward County
2010 Chardonnay $29.95
2011 Rosé $19.95
2010 Pinot Noir $39.95

Diamond Estate Wines – Niagara-in-the-Lake
2008 Lakeview Cellars GMR Sparkling Reserve $24.95
2007 Lakeview Cellars Merlot Reserve $19.95
2007 Lakeview Cellars Gewurztraminer Icewine (200mL) $34.95
Seasons Port $39.95

Kacaba Vineyards – Beamsville Bench
2011 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay $22.95
2009 Cabernet Franc $18.95
2009 Syrah $29.95
2009 Cabernet Sauvignon $24.95

Keint-He Winery and Vineyard –Prince Edward County
2009 Chardonnay $20
2009 Foxtail Pinot Meunier $27
2009 Little Creek - Closson Pinot Noir $32
2008 Pineaux Sauvage (375mL) $50

Lailey Vineyard – Niagara-on-the-Lake
2011 Unoaked Chardonnay $15
2011 Sauvignon Blanc $20
2010 Chardonnay Brickyard $30
2010 Cabernet Franc $25
2010 Syrah $27
2010 Cabernet Sauvignon $30

Lighthall Vineyards -Prince Edward County
2011 Progression Sparkling $20
2011 Gewurztraminer $25
2009 Chardonnay Réserve $25
2010 Pinot Noir $25

Marynissen Winery and Estates – Niagara-on-the-Lake
2010 Road Block Chardonnay $15
2011 100Marks White Merlot $25
2009 Bottoms Up! $18
2010 Solstice $22
2010 100Marks Pinot Noir $45

Palatine Hills Estate Winery – Niagara-on-the-Lake
2011 Lakeshore White $13.95
2010 Neufeld Vineyard Chardonnay $22.95
2010 Cabernet Merlot $15.95
2010 Neufeld Vineyard Meritage $29.95

Pondview Estate Winery – Niagara-on-the-Lake
2010 Riesling $16.95
2010 Bella Terra Chardonnay $24
2010 Cabernet Sauvignon $34.95
2010 Meritage $39.95

Rosehall Run Vineyard & Winery –Prince Edward County
2011 Unoaked Chardonnay Cuvée County $17.95
2010 Canadian Barrel Chardonnay Cuvée County $24.95
2010 Cabernet Franc Cuvée County $24.95
2010 ‘The Swinger ’Syrah Cuvée County $34.95

Sandbanks Winery –Prince Edward County
2011 Love Cassis Aperitivo $14.95
2011 Sauvignon Blanc $16.95
2011 Gewurztraminer $16.95
2010 French Kiss $24.95

 Strewn Winery – Niagara-on-the-Lake
2010 Strewn Merlot Terroir $16.95
2011 Strewn Riesling Terroir $25.80

AND... new this year, Ontario craft breweries are joining us to 'Selerate with their award-winning brews:
Ashton Brewing Company – Ashton
Clocktower Brewpub –Ottawa
Hockley Valley Brewing Company- Orangeville
Kichesippi Beer Co –Ottawa
Mill Street Brewery –Ottawa &Toronto

Cheers!

-Debbie & the Savvy Team

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-travelled and have a joie de vivre that is contagious.  Just step into the Ottawa Wine and Food Festival (November 6-12 at the Ottawa Convention Center) during the afternoon while it is typically full of industry folks and you can talk to winemakers and winery owners all over the world who have come to Ottawa to showcase their wines - white wines, red wines, sparkling wines, you name it they make it.  Or closer to home, attend Outstanding in their Fields wine tasting event this Friday October 19 at the National Arts Centre where 23 winemakers from Niagara will be showcasing their hard to find wines.

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.’

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 November 17^th 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!

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.

To register & for more details about Importing Wine for Pleasure and Profit seminar in Ottawa on Saturday November 17 at www.savvycompany.ca/events

Everything is all set for this Friday’s Outstanding in their Fields wine tasting featuring 23 of Niagara’s Twenty Valley wineries.  Are you joining us? A limited number of tickets are left.

Here is a sneak peak of the wines that are ready for you to enjoy – none that you will find at the LCBO – so this is a perfect evening out sipping and stocking up on new wine discoveries.  There will be over 80 different outstanding wines ranging in prices from $12.95 to $44.95 - sparkling wines, lots of white and red wines,  a rosé, delicious icewines and even a port too!  There's definitely something for everyone.

Taste a glass…buy a bottle

Exclusive at this event you can order ANY combination of outstanding wines from ANY of the wineries & they will be delivered by courier to your home or office. Free shipping on all orders of 12 bottles or more!

With so many wines and so little time, our Team of Savvy Sommeliers will be there to help you sharing wine tips & recommendations to find wines that you will undoubtedly enjoy.

Can’t make it to this event?

Don't despiar...you can still stock up on your favorite 20 Valley wines.  Simply email us or call 613-SAVVYCO (728-8926) & we'll be happy to make the arrangements for your order.  When placed before October 24^th  shipping is free on a case of wine.

Looking forward to seeing you for an Outstanding night of wines from Twenty Valley!

Cheers,
Debbie & the Savvy Team

Wines that will be served at Outstanding in their Fields wine tasting on Friday October 19th:

13th Street Winery
2008 Premier Cuvee Sparkling $34.95

2010 Old Vines Riesling $23.95

2010 Reserve Sandstone Vineyard Chardonnay VQA $34.95

2011 Gamay Noir $19.95
NEWS: 13th Street will be the feature winery in November for our Savvy Selections wine of the month club.

Angels Gate Winery

2007 St. John Vineyard Riesling $16.95

2011 Mountainview Sauvignon Blanc $19.95

2010 Feet First Unfiltered Pinot Noir $21.95

2010 Scarpa $40.00

Aure Wines - a new winery that just opened this summer!

2011 Ice wine $20

2010 Riesling $15.25

2011 Gamay  $15.25

2010 Reserve  Cabernet Franc $32.00

Calamus Estate Winery

2011 Vinemount Ridge Riesling $16.20

2011 Pinot Gris $17.20

2010 Cosmic Red $19.95

Cave Spring Cellars

Blanc de Noirs NV $34.95

2011 Riesling Dolomite. $16.95

2009 Riesling CSV $29.95

2008 Cabernet Franc Dolomite $21.95

Creekside Estate Winery

2010 Laura’s White $18.95

2010 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc $26.95

2008 Broken Press Syrah $39.95 - Our Sommeliers chose this as a Savvy Selections wine

2007 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon $34.95

De Sousa Wine Cellars

2011 Chardonnay Musqué $13.95

2011 Baco Noir $13.95

2007 Meritage Reserve $18.95

Tawny Port $39.95

Di Profio Wines  - a new winery that just opened this summer

2011 Riesling $16.35

2011 Gamay Noir $16.75

2010 Cabernet Sauvignon $19.79

2011 Select Late Harvest Vidal $18.75
NEWS: Di Profio will be featured in our Savvy Selections wine of the month club in March

Fielding Estate Winery

2011 Estate Bottled Pinot Gris $21.95

Brut (Traditional Method Sparkling) $34.95

2010 Cabernet Syrah $24.95

2007 Meritage $34.95 (Special price! Regular $44.95) - Our Sommeliers chose this as a Savvy Selections wine

Flat Rock Cellars

2008 Riddled Sparkling $24.95

2011 Twisted $16.95

2011 Riesling $16.95

2010 Pinot Noir $19.95

The Good Earth Food & Wine Company

2011 Betty’s Blend $17.95

2010 Dry Riesling $19.95 - our Sommeliers chose this as a Savvy Selections featured wine

2011 Rosé $17.95 - and this one too!

2010 Pinot Noir $21.95 - and this Pinot was definitely a Savvy Selections featured wine

GreenLane Estate Winery

2011 Pinot Grigio $16.95

2011 Unoaked Chardonnay $17.95

2011 Old Vines Riesling $22.95

2010 Cabernet $14.95

Harbour Estates Winery

2011 Pinot Gris $13.95

2011 Cabernet $14.95

Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery

2010 Riesling Estate $17.95

2011 Estate Chardonnay $19.95

2010 Baco Noir Reserve $24.95

2009 Pinot Noir Estate $24.95

2010 Cab Merlot Estate $24.95

Kacaba Vineyard & Winery

2011 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay $22.95

2009 Single Vineyard Cabernet Franc $18.95 - this was featured in our Savvy Bin Ends last week

2009 Pinot Noir $22.95

2010 Reserve Merlot $44.95
NEWS: Kacaba will be featured in our  Savvy Selections wine of the month club in January

Malivoire Wine Company

2010 M2 Small Lot Chardonnay $19.95

2011 M2 Small Lot Gamay $19.95

megalomaniac - John Howard Cellars of Distinction

2006 Homegrown White $ 12.95

2006 Narcissist Riesling $17.95

Homegrown Red $14.95

2008 Bigmouth Merlot $24.95

Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery

2010 Vintner’s Private Reserve Sauvignon Blanc $24.95

2008 Reserve Chardonnay $24.95

2010 McNally Vineyard Proprietor’s Reserve Pinot Noir $24.95

2010 Vintner’s Private Reserve Merlot $29.95

Rockway Glen Golf Course & Estate Winery

2010 Patio 9 White $12.95

2011 Small Lot Reserve White Assemblage $16.95

2010 Small Lot Reserve Red Assemblage $16.95

2010 Small Lot Reserve Cabernet Franc $23.95

Rosewood Estates Winery & Meadery

2010 Long Rows White $13

2011 Mima’s Block Riesling $18

2010 Pinot Noir $20

2009 Merlot Reserve $36
NEWS: Rosewood will be featured in our Savvy Selections wine of the month club in February

Stoney Ridge Estate Winery

2010 Excellence Pinot Gris  $24.95

2010 Excellence Chardonnay $27.95

2010 Excellence Merlot $29.95

2009 Excellence Cabernet Franc $32.95

Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery

2011 Vidal $15.15

2011 Riesling Loved By Lu $16.95

2011 Robert’s Block Riesling $26.00

2011 Baco Noir $15.15

Tawse Winery

2011 Riesling $21.95

2010 Estate Chardonnay $37.95

2010 Laundry Vineyard Cabernet Franc $31.95

2010 Growers Blend Pinot Noir $31.95 - a Savvy Selections featured wine

Rosehall Run Vineyards continues to support theatre in Prince Edward County, hosting the production of ‘Harvest’ set amongst their estate vineyards. Festival Players is the County’s professional theatre company, and ‘Harvest’ is a funny, fast-paced story of an older farm couple who retire, move to town and rent out their old farmhouse to what seems to be a ‘nice young man’—can you guess that all is not what it seems!

Performances run from Wedensday, August 9 through Saturday, August 25. Plan to include this unique production in your late-summer trip to Prince Edward County. Rosehall Run’s award-winning wine, examples of which are highlighted below, will be available during the performance. For more information, contact Lynn Sullivan at Rosehall Run Vineyards (1-888-399-1183) or visit www.countytix.ca.

While you watch this fun performance, have a sip of one of these newly released wines from Rosehall Run Vineyards.

Cheers!

- Susan

Rosehall Run Pinot Gris 2011

VQA Prince Edward County $21.95
12.5% alcohol
Floral notes, ripe orchard fruit and a hint of tangerine drift from the glass. Dry, light-mid weight and lively, this is a vibrantly textured fresh wine with a fine backbone of acidity, tangy citrus and green apple flavours, and a nice mineral note. Balanced, refreshing, it hits just the right note for the dog days of summer.

Rosehall Run ‘Liberated’ Chardonnay 2011

VQA Ontario $15.95
12.7% alcohol
Pale yellow green, offering fresh notes of green apple, pear and yellow plum, this wine is free of any oak influence, clean and lively on the palate. Tangy apple and slightly pithy citrus notes ride the wave of fresh acidity through a fresh juicy lip-smacking finish. A great example of Ontario’s cool-climate Chardonnay!

Rosehall Run ‘Cuvée County’ Chardonnay 2010

VQA Prince Edward County
13.5% alcohol
Apple, toasted hazelnut and candied lemon tantalize, the apple and nutty notes coming through on the palate. The lovely creamy texture delights, lively citrusy acidity balancing well-integrated oak and ripe orchard fruit flavours. It finishes fresh and flavourful.

Rosehall Run ‘Cuvée County’ Pinot Noir 2010

VQA Prince Edward County $24.95
13.2% alcohol
Semi-transparent, garnet hued, there’s earth, dried herbs, spice and red cherry/berry  notes on the nose. Dry, mid-weight and silky in texture, the palate is awash with red fruits—currant jam, cranberry, cherry and raspberry. Lively acidity underpins the fruit, subtle tannins provide a fine frame, and the finish is juicy and fruity, while maintaining that underlying earthiness. Serve slightly chilled with grilled salmon.

Rosehall Run ‘Defiant’ 2011

VQA Ontario $18.95
12.5% alcohol
Semi-transparent and rose toned, the wine proffers aromas of sweet cherry/berry fruit, subtle spice and a whiff of vanilla and cedar from aging in French oak. Dry, on the light side of medium bodied, the texture is satin-like, the flavours of cherry and raspberry bountiful. The fruit rides a lovely backbone of crisp acidity, the wine finishing fruity and fresh with a touch of warmth.