hello

 

THE WINE DIVA previews the highlights of the 37^th Vancouver International Wine Festival and

we join Dine Out Vancouver for Mini Tours of  Craft Beer and Distillery shops.  Featuring stops at Bomber Brewing, Strange Fellows. Odd Society and Yaletown Distillery.   

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THE SHOW 

Two big  upcoming events in Vancouver.

Dine Out Vancouver takes place Jan 16 – Feb 1. And The 37^th Annual Vancouver International Wine Festival Feb 20 – March 1. 

 

 

As expected The Wine Diva – Daenna van Mulligen – is totally involved in the upcoming Wine festival. She has just posted her recommended highlights at www.winediva.ca

 

 

 

… and she brings those highlights to this week’s Tasting Room Radio show.

Spectacular Dinners, cutting edge Seminars,  plus the essential do’s and don’ts in the tasting room.

Since 1979, the festival has raised $8.3 million for the performing arts in Vancouver. The charitable beneficiary

is Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival.

They are expecting 25,000 wine fans.

The Vancouver International Wine Festival is one of the biggest and oldest wine events in the world, offering something for every level of wine drinker, collector and trade professional. Winery principals (winemaker, proprietor, senior executive) representing 170 wineries from 14 countries will be in attendance to pour and discuss their wines. Every year, this international festival shines the spotlight on one country or region, and that region has more wineries, wines and events than any other. There is also a global focus. For 2015, the regional country is Australia and the global focus is Syrah.  

The heart of the festival is the Acura International Festival Tasting

Room at the Vancouver Convention Centre, where 750+ wines are

available for sampling, with an additional 165 wines available at

the trade tasting. More than 825 additional wines will be served

at special events orbiting the tasting room, including a gala dinner

+ auction, wine seminars, trade events, and food and wine pairing

affairs such as winery dinners, lunches and brunches at top

Vancouver restaurants and hotels.

See complete details at www.vanwinefest.ca 

Tasting Room Radio will be presenting two complete shows from the Trade Tasting events. Your host this year – Daenna van Mulligen.

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Dine Out Vancouver 2015

The 13th annual Dine Out Vancouver Festival is bigger and better than ever with more than 70 food-themed events plus a record-setting 277 restaurants dishing up prix fixe menus at $18, $28 and $38 price points (many with BC VQA wine pairings available at an additional cost). The festival runs from January 16 to February 1.

The diverse mix of restaurants participating in the 2015 festival allows diners to sample many of the city’s top-rated restaurants (like Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar, West and Chambar), and an impressive array of multicultural flavours (from sushi and Indian to First Nations cuisine), as well as new openings (like Shirakawa, Exile Bistro, Blacktail and Gyoza Bar). From North Vancouver to Langley, Dine Out touches all corners of Metro Vancouver.

 

 

 

 

 

 

This week we’re taken on a teaser mini tour of craft beer and distillery participants.

Guests include:

Yaletown Distillery – Craig Harris  GM

Odd Society – Mariam Karp  GM

Bomber Brewing – Blair Calibaba  Head Brewer

Strange Fellows Brewing  –  Iain Hill 

Off the Beaten Path – Bonnie Todd

La Grotta Del Formaggio – Rachel Parker

Vancouver Brewery Tours – Ryan MacKay

Famoso – Ryan Chillibeck   

Tourism Vancouver – Lucas Pavan  

 

 

 

 

 

Next week..we talk to three chefs and give you Dine Out restaurant suggestions you can use.

 www.dineoutvancouver.com      

 

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[divider]

STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON

 Wine Diva has budget bottles UNDER $16

Dine Out Vancouver – The Food coverage

Chefs, Menus, wine pairings

A Wine Diva tour of Sardinia and Piedmont, Italy.

Argentina in an Hour

hello

 
THE WINE DIVA previews the highlights of the 37^th Vancouver International Wine Festival and
we join Dine Out Vancouver for Mini Tours of  Craft Beer and Distillery shops.  Featuring stops at Bomber Brewing, Strange Fellows. Odd Society and Yaletown Distillery.   

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

[divider]

THE SHOW 

Two big  upcoming events in Vancouver.
Dine Out Vancouver takes place Jan 16 – Feb 1. And The 37^th Annual Vancouver International Wine Festival Feb 20 – March 1. 

 
 
As expected The Wine Diva – Daenna van Mulligen – is totally involved in the upcoming Wine festival. She has just posted her recommended highlights at www.winediva.ca
 

 
 
… and she brings those highlights to this week’s Tasting Room Radio show.
Spectacular Dinners, cutting edge Seminars,  plus the essential do’s and don’ts in the tasting room.
Since 1979, the festival has raised $8.3 million for the performing arts in Vancouver. The charitable beneficiary
is Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival.
They are expecting 25,000 wine fans.
The Vancouver International Wine Festival is one of the biggest and oldest wine events in the world, offering something for every level of wine drinker, collector and trade professional. Winery principals (winemaker, proprietor, senior executive) representing 170 wineries from 14 countries will be in attendance to pour and discuss their wines. Every year, this international festival shines the spotlight on one country or region, and that region has more wineries, wines and events than any other. There is also a global focus. For 2015, the regional country is Australia and the global focus is Syrah.  

The heart of the festival is the Acura International Festival Tasting
Room at the Vancouver Convention Centre, where 750+ wines are
available for sampling, with an additional 165 wines available at
the trade tasting. More than 825 additional wines will be served
at special events orbiting the tasting room, including a gala dinner
+ auction, wine seminars, trade events, and food and wine pairing
affairs such as winery dinners, lunches and brunches at top
Vancouver restaurants and hotels.
See complete details at www.vanwinefest.ca 
Tasting Room Radio will be presenting two complete shows from the Trade Tasting events. Your host this year – Daenna van Mulligen.
[divider]
Dine Out Vancouver 2015
The 13th annual Dine Out Vancouver Festival is bigger and better than ever with more than 70 food-themed events plus a record-setting 277 restaurants dishing up prix fixe menus at $18, $28 and $38 price points (many with BC VQA wine pairings available at an additional cost). The festival runs from January 16 to February 1.
The diverse mix of restaurants participating in the 2015 festival allows diners to sample many of the city’s top-rated restaurants (like Boulevard Kitchen & Oyster Bar, West and Chambar), and an impressive array of multicultural flavours (from sushi and Indian to First Nations cuisine), as well as new openings (like Shirakawa, Exile Bistro, Blacktail and Gyoza Bar). From North Vancouver to Langley, Dine Out touches all corners of Metro Vancouver.

 
 
 
 
 
 
This week we’re taken on a teaser mini tour of craft beer and distillery participants.
Guests include:
Yaletown Distillery – Craig Harris  GM
Odd Society – Mariam Karp  GM
Bomber Brewing – Blair Calibaba  Head Brewer
Strange Fellows Brewing  –  Iain Hill 
Off the Beaten Path – Bonnie Todd
La Grotta Del Formaggio – Rachel Parker
Vancouver Brewery Tours – Ryan MacKay
Famoso – Ryan Chillibeck   
Tourism Vancouver – Lucas Pavan  



 

 
 
 
 
Next week..we talk to three chefs and give you Dine Out restaurant suggestions you can use.
 www.dineoutvancouver.com      
 

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[divider]

STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON

 Wine Diva has budget bottles UNDER $16
Dine Out Vancouver – The Food coverage
Chefs, Menus, wine pairings
A Wine Diva tour of Sardinia and Piedmont, Italy.
Argentina in an Hour

hello

 

Dying to get to New Zealand but cant seem to get away..Not to worry. We went last year.
TRR presents New Zealand in an Hour 

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[divider]

THE SHOW 

Last March I had the pleasure of touring various outstanding wine regions in NZ.
What drove the various stories was New Zealand’s remarkable sustainability record.
Tasting Room Radio broadcast four hours of interviews over the course of 2014 but there were so many interviews I realized other shows could be created..
Thus New Zealand in an Hour!!   

94% of all NZ wines are farmed under sustainable practices.
It’s not so much a program as a way of life. New Zealanders are all about being green..
We start in Auckland, then Hawkes Bay, Marlborough and finally Central Otago.
 Our guests include
Auckland:
We talk to our “host” Phillip Manson, the man in charge of New Zealand’s Sustainability efforts.
He’s proud of New Zealand’s reputation. So he should be. www.nzwine.com
On the Ferry heading for  Waiheke Island..just off the coast from Auckland..we visit Mike Spratt at Destiny Bay, maker of only three wines.  three Bordeaux influenced red blends..one of which,  Magna Praemia,  is the most expensive wine in NZ.  Mike, his scientist wife Ann and winemaking son Sean lead a stellar team.  http://www.destinybaywine.com/

mike-spratt-destiny-bay
Before we leave the dormant volcanoes of beautiful Auckland we visit just one more winery.
The most awarded winery in all NZ – Villa Maria!!  www.villamaria.co.nz
Sir George Fistonich has spent five decades at the forefront of New Zealand’s wine industry
that he helped develop. As an icon of the New Zealand wine industry, Villa Maria is known for
bold and industry-changing moves such as moving to 100% screw cap through to the
emphasis on sustainable practices in every area of the family owned company.
Villa Maria Estate was named the supreme winner at the New Zealand Sustainable Business Network awards in November 2012
Here’s  the man himself, Sir George Fistonich.    

 
 
 
 
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Elephant Hill     Hawkes Bay
 
Elephant Hill is a stunning and innovative winery estate and restaurant located on the idyllic Te Awanga coast, in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand.

They create 2 very fine chardonnays , Sauv blanc, a white & red blends called Le Phant Blanc/Rouge and a 5 star Viognier and favour Syrah on the Red side..
We sit down in their fabulous restaurant with Viticulturist Jon Peet and sales and marketing leader Vince Labatt.
The word I get from the NZ wine business is..watch these guys..they’re very good.
 
http://www.elephanthill.co.nz/
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 Pask     Hawkes Bay    
On our tour of NZ #1 we talked to Kate Ranburnd the famous winemaker  at Pask.
Hawkes Bay is a short flight from Auckland. http://www.hawkesbaynz.com/
Hawke’s Bay’s long, hot summers and cool winters offer the best weather for growing grapes. The climate is dry and temperate. Hawke’s Bay is renowned for its horticulture with large orchards and vineyards on the plains.

Hawke’s Bay is one of New Zealand’s warmest, driest regions and this has made it one of the country’s leading producers of wine; notably red wines – cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah – but also with some quite stunning whites.
They are working on being the Syrah Capitol of NZ.  www.winehawkesbay.co.nz/
Pask Winemaker and Managing Director Kate Radburnd is one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed winemakers. She commands an international reputation for her extensive record of award winning wines and her vision and contribution to the industry.
Pask’s 59 hectares of vineyards are located on Gimblett Road where Chris Pask was first to plant in the region now known as the Gimblett Gravels Winegrowing District®.

Formed over 100 years ago when the Ngaruroro River changed its course, the light, stony soils of the region are low in nutrients, completely free draining, and create the perfect environment for growing premium quality grapes. Their  very first vintage of 1985 Cabernet Sauvignon was awarded 5 stars in Cuisine Magazine. Since then Pask wines have consistently enjoyed gold medal and  trophy success in London, Australia, Asia, the United States, Canada and New Zealand across a range of varietals and winestyles.
 Kate holds the role of Deputy Chair of the Wine Institute of New Zealand, has been a Director of the Wine Institute of New Zealand and New Zealand Winegrowers since 1999, and is Chair of Judges at New Zealand’s oldest wine competition, the New Zealand Royal Easter Show Wine Awards.
Kate has also been instrumental in the development of the Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand program and led Pask to be among the first group of wineries in the country to secure ISO environmental accreditation.
Kate  spent five years as Chair of the SWNZ advisory/working group, which at that time saw the introduction of the winery programme under the scheme.
Four of her  labels command the wine world’s attention
Declaration
Gimblett Road
Roy’s Hill
Kate Radburnd
 Loved this interview..Enjoy!!  http://www.pask.co.nz/ 
 [divider]
 YEALANDS  Marlborough   

You want Character?
You want baby goats in the vineyard?
How about a visit to one of NZ most successful organic wineries Yealands. Named after the character owner Pete Yealands.  
Peter’s trademark “can do” attitude is the stuff of legend.
Peter has a track record of making pioneering, innovative plans come to fruition – and his successes have been recently chronicled in a book “A Bloke For All Seasons – the Peter Yealands story”.

He has developed seven of his own vineyard sites in Marlborough, plus several others under contract for other companies. However his entrepreneurial vision extends well beyond grapes. Early on, Peter recognized the potential to farm Greenshell mussels commercially and in 1971 was issued with New Zealand’s first marine farming license. Thanks to his efforts in designing innovative technologies and helping establish aquaculture in the region, marine farming now contributes $160 million a year to New Zealand’s export earnings.
In the mid ’80’s Peter established one of New Zealand’s most successful deer farms, specializing in stud animals and embryo transplants. This 2,000 hectare property in Kaiuma Bay in the Marlborough Sounds won a rural environment award in 2003. 

Peter, wife Vai and son Aaron now focus their energies on building Yealands Estate into a global brand.
Pete was on the road when we got there so our guest today is Michael Wentworth the General manager.
FYI  Yealands makes 1.2 Million cases. All sustainably grown.
[divider]
STAETELANDT –  Dorien Vermaas  Co-Founder  Marlborough.
While Ruud is hands on in the winery, Dorien has had her finger on the pulse of the marketing / sales of StaeteLandt Wines since the beginning. Her background as a marketing manager in larger companies and her love for wine has certainly given her the edge when it comes to understanding this intricate side of the business.

 
Her bright and bubbly personality are a true asset to the company. Along with Ruud, her philosophy is to produce wines of character and integrity – words that sum up her attitude to all she has done for StaeteLandt Wines
 
 
 
[divider]             
FELTON ROAD  Central Otago  

One of the world’s finest Pinot Noirs. No Question.
 This Central Otago icon produces stunning biodynamic wines year after year. These guys really know their stuff.
In 2010 Felton Road was designated a Grand Cru winery of New Zealand. This Grand Cru status, currently only held by two other wineries (including Ata Rangi), recognizes the premier producers of Pinot Noir in New Zealand.
Winemaker Blair Walter is a master of less is more, Pinots are unfined and unfiltered and challenge the very best the world has to offer.
Felton Road is situated on warm, north facing slopes of glacial loess soils in Bannockburn, in the heart of Central Otago. The modern gravity fed winery receives 100% estate grown fruit from its three vineyards that are all farmed biodynamically and are fully certified by Demeter. Minimal intervention in the winemaking with such practices as wild yeast, no fining or filtration, allow the unique vineyard characters to further express their considerable personality.

Since the first vintage in 1997, Felton Road has acquired a formidable worldwide reputation.
Felton Road is one of the legendary names in New Zealand wine. They’re probably the most famous of the Central Otago wineries, making some highly regarded Pinot Noirs.

It was my great pleasure  to spend a number of hours talking to Owner, part time chef and team leader Nigel Greening.
Looking for one of the best wineries anywhere in NZ?  you’ve just found it.  Felton Road.
 www.feltonroad.com  

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[divider]

STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON:

• Argentina in an Hour
• The Wine Diva has the highlights of this year’s Vancouver Int Wine Festival
• Budget bottles under $16.00
• Wines from Spain, Portugal.

 
 

hello

 
Wall to Wall Celebrities..The Smell of Fame!!
Starring Jason Priestley  (90210/Call Me Fitz) , Jim Cuddy (Blue Rodeo), Bruce McCulloch (Kids in the Hall), Tom Cochrane (New tour and LP) and Adam Cohen (On his Father Leonard and his new Tequila fixation)

THE SHOW

 Not all Tasting Room shows are about wine or food or travel. Sometimes they’re about music,  film and books. And food and wine.
This show is a special cuddle with friends who happen to be famous because what they do – music, film, comedy – they do very well!!

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[divider]
 
For example – Jason Priestley.  Jason Priestley A Memoir
 World famous as that wuss Brandon in 90210. Fantastic as Fitz in Call me Fitz.
He’s a really fine director, Father and now  writer.
His 2014 book is called Jason Priestley – A Memoir.
Stories about his years on 90210, sharing an apartment with Brad Pitt, crashing his race car In Kentucky and breaking bones from his feet up and having to learn to walk and talk again and  life after 90210.
Jason is also my co-host/co-exec producer on 3 years of Hollywood and Vines TV.
JP really knows his wines and we LOVE to riff on what we’ve been tasting.
www.harpercollins.com/9780062247582/jason–priestley
www.officialjasonpriestley.com     [divider]
How about – Jim Cuddy (Blue Rodeo and the Jim Cuddy Band)   

We know Jim through his amazing singing and songwriting career with Canada’s Blue Rodeo.
Both Jim and his long time music partner Greg Keelor have been awarded the Order of Canada.
Blue Rodeo have won countless Junos and sold out national  tours.
( Not to forget The Jim Cuddy Band and that growing fan base..)
Jim raises funds for various causes including Canada’s Olympic Team through the Gold Medal Plates culinary competition.
On top of all this glory he also loves his wines He’s always ready with an informed take on the latest wine releases..in Canada and around the World.
We welcome back Jim Cuddy.
www.bluerodeo.com
https://www.facebook.com/jimcuddyband/info     [divider]
Bruce McCulloch is a punk..
 
Bruce’s new book is called Let’s Start a Riot.  How a Young Drunk Punk became a Hollywood Dad.
It’s about to become a TV series and even perhaps a stage play.
Punk debuts on CityTV Jan 21.
Brings his stage tour to Vancouver Jan 28-Feb 1^st at FireHall Arts Centre.
We know Bruce from his brilliant work with Kids in the Hall. He’s a actor, writer, comedian and film director.
 

Bruce has stories about growing up in Edmonton, how Kids in the Hall create and his vast knowledge of women and wine.
http://brucio.com/
 [divider]
 or How about Tom Cochrane….

He’s been a friend ever since we travelled to Africa for World Vision and MuchMusic , many years ago.
Tom and his wife Kathy are spending more and more time in Austin Texas..a great music town.
Its been six years since Tom released his last album but he’s about to reveal his latest collection of songs Take It Home  early in 2015..with a Take it Home  tour I might add.
Tom can now add to his collection of Junos,  Order of Canada and  Walk of Fame induction the name Guest on Tasting Room Radio.
http://www.tomcochrane.com/
 [divider]
and finally  Adam Cohen…
 He’s just a great guy…,Father, Husband, eye candy, singer, songwriter and son of Leonard Cohen.
Imagine setting out to carve a career in the family business..the baggage you have to carry..the constant comparisons between Father and Son.
Thing is – Adam’s ok with all that. He’s come to grips with his songs and his voice.

He writes and sounds like his Dad..that’s just the way it is.
Has a really good new album We Go Home..which took shape in his family home in Montreal.
Last time Adam was on the show he was all over great red wines..
This time he schools yours truly on his new passion –  Tequila!!!
www.adamcohen.com
 

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[divider]

STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON

 New Zealand in an Hour
Argentina in an Hour

hello

James Nevison returns with the 10^th edition of Had A Glass/Top 100 wines Under $20
Daenna van Mulligen/The Wine Diva has last minute Wine Gifts..
Yew Chef Ned Bell wins Chef of the Year from his peers.
Hawksworth chef du cuisine Kristian Eligh takes the Golden Medal Plates Competition  in Victoria .

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[divider]

THE SHOW

 James Nevison/Had a Glass 2015  Top 100 wines under $20  

James Nevison’s annual,  easy to read  guide for everyday wine is back for its 10^th year, with the top 100 wallet-friendly wines for the year ahead.
James will find you the very best value for money across white, pink, red, sparkling and fortified wines.
$10 wines that taste like they’re $30, and $20 bottles that will knock your socks off! Each wine has a full page review, and its label and barcode are included for easy reference at the liquor store. And, for the first time this year, the book contains delicious recipes for wine cocktails. Also included:
• How to taste wine (as opposed to simply drink wine!): James’s patented Four Step Process
• How to buy wine: advice on how to seek out value in the liquor store.
• Food and Wine: pairings covering all the major food groups
 • The Splurge: for life’s moments that trump the bottom line!
With Had a Glass 2015 in hand, you’re guaranteed to find great tasting wines that are also great value.

 
 
 
 
 
 
www.hadaglass.com
[divider]
Chef Ned Bell/  Executive Chef Yew Seafood and Bar Four Seasons Vancouver.
 Chef Ned Bell has been named Chef of the Year at the 27th Annual Pinnacle Awards. The awards are presented by publications Foodservice and Hospitality and Hotelier magazines.

Ned earned the award for his “profound impact on how chefs and Canadian consumers perceive seafood.” In a follow up feature in the December 2014 issue of Foodservice and Hospitality, Bell is described as a “connector.” More specifically, he is a “curious, self-confident, sociable and energetic person with a special gift of bringing people together” all in the name of enjoying great food and good conversation in a way that looks after the environment.
 
Bell’s advocacy against overfishing and tireless promotion of identifying and sourcing sustainable seafood is in play every day in his role as Executive Chef at YEW seafood + bar, one of the city’s hottest tables, and Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver. Bell led the property to become Canada’s first luxury hotel to be 100 percent Ocean Wise certified.
 
The athletic and outgoing chef took his commitment to the next level in 2014 when he founded Chefs for Oceans, a grassroots movement designed to raise awareness for the importance of sourcing, serving and eating sustainable seafood. From July through September, Bell hopped on his bike and rode more than 8,700 kilometres (5,400 miles) from St. John’s, Newfoundland to Vancouver, British Columbia on a 72-day journey that included 24 special events with like-minded chefs and supporters across the country.

TRR welcomes back to the show – our pal Ned Bell.
http://www.fourseasons.com/vancouver/dining/lounges/yew_bar/
www.chefsforoceans.com
http://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/yew-seafood-bar-four-seasons-hotel-vancouver-executive-chef-ned-bell-wins-chef-year-foodservice-hospitality-magazines-annual-pinnacle-awards/
[divider]
Daenna Van Mulligen/The Wine Diva – Great Wine Gifts

As Daenna says at www.winediva.ca
Who needs more stuff?
There are no concerns about getting the wrong size or if the recipient even has room for another chachka…
A great bottle of wine will always be appreciated. It’s consumable and the rest recyclable.
Give the gift of wine!  
 
 
Painted Rock Cabernet Sauvignon, Okanagan Valley $40.00

2. Luis Segundo Correas ‘Valle Las Acequias’ Malbec Oak, Mendoza Argentina $22.99
3. Taylor Fladgate Fine White Port, Douro Portugal $21.99
4. Fonseca Porto Bin No. 27 Reserve, Douro Portugal $24.99
5. Serafino Shiraz, McLaren Vale Australia $28.00
6. Laurenz und Sophie ‘Singing’ Gruner Veltliner, Austria $21.99
7. Masi Campofiorin Rosso del Veronese IGT, Veneto Italy $19.99
8. Laughing Stock ‘Portfolio’ Okanagan Valley BC $45.00
9. Caymus Vineyards ’40th Anniversary’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley California $72.00
10. Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars Reserve Brut Okanagan Valley BC $40.00
11. Tommasi Viticoltori ‘Le Prunee’ Merlot Della Venezie, Veneto Italy $19.99
12. Cave de Rasteau ‘La Domeliere’ Rasteau, Rhone Valley France $21.99
13. Jean-Claude Boisset Bourgogne Pinot Noir ‘Les Ursulines’, France $24.99
14. Maison des Bulliats Gamay Regnie Grand Cru, Beaujolais France $21.99
15. Quails’ Gate Pinot Noir, Okanagan Valley $24.99
16. Bodega Beronia Reserva, Rioja Spain $24.99
17. Perrier~Jouet ‘Belle Epoque’ Brut Champagne, France $199.99
18. William Fevre ‘Champs Royaux’, Chablis France $31.99
19. Chateau de Sancerre ‘Sancerre’ Loire Valley, France $29.99
20. Barone di Valforte Montepulciano d’Abbruzzo, Italy $19.99
21. Gonzalez Byass ‘Noe’ VORS Aged 30 Years Pedro Ximenez, Jerez Spain $39.99
22. Antinori ‘Peppoli’, DOCG Chianti Classico, Tuscany Italy $24.99
23. Negretti DOC Nebbiolo d’Alba, La Morra Piedmont Italy $39.99
24. JoieFarm ‘A Noble Blend’, Okanagan Valley BC $24.00
25. Tormaresca ‘Trentangeli’ Castel del Monte, Puglia Italy $19.99
26. Yalumba ‘Patchwork’ Shiraz, Barossa Valley, South Australia $25.99
27. Philippe Cambie ‘Les Halos de Jupiter’ Cotes du Rhone, France $23.99
28. Stefano Farina ‘La Ginestra’ Chianti, Tuscany Italy $19.99
29. Jean-Marc Brocard Chablis 1er Cru Montmain, Burgundy France $39.99
30. Longview ‘Yakka’ Shiraz, Adelaide Hills Australia $30.00
31. Marchesi de Frescobaldi ‘Tenuta di Castiglioni’ Toscana Italy $26.99
32. Blue Mountain Vineyard and Cellars Reserve Pinot Noir, Okangan Valley BC $36.00
33. Clos du Soleil ‘Signature’, British Columbia $40.00
34. Rocland Estate ‘Chocolate Box – Dark Chocolate’ Shiraz, Barossa Valley Australia $24.99

www.winediva.ca
[divider]
Kristian Eligh.  Chef du Cuisine Hawksworth in Vancouver.  

Hawksworth Restaurant’s Chef de Cuisine Kristian Eligh proved his culinary prowess , taking home the gold award at the Victoria 2014 Gold Medal Plates competition held at the Victoria Convention Centre. Chef Eligh went head to head with eight of the province’s finest chefs at the prestigious culinary competition and will now go on to compete at the Canadian Culinary Championships, the Gold Medal Plates Finale, in Kelowna on February 6 and 7, 2015.
Chef Eligh wowed the judges and a crowd of hundreds with his dish of confit pork neck, granny smith apple, puffed avonlea cheddar, mâche paired with Meyer Family Vineyards 2012 Tribute Series Chardonnay ‘Kelly Hrudey’ Old Main Road Vineyard.
Ultimately, Chef Kristian Eligh’s dish was simple but vivid with a great wine match, which gave him an edge over his competitors.
Proceeds from Gold Medal Plates go to the Canadian Olympic Foundation, supporting programs that further Canadian high-performance athletes’ pursuit of excellence on the world stage – programs such as Own The Podium and COC’s Athlete Excellence Fund.
Each dish was judged out of 100 points, based on visual presentation (20%), texture (20%), taste (30%), wine compatibility (10%), originality (10%) and wow factor (10%).
Website: www.hawksworthrestaurant.com
http://myvancity.ca/2014/10/31/hawksworth-restaurants-chef-de-cuisine-kristian-eligh-wins-b-c-s-2014-gold-medal/
 

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[divider]

STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON

Argentina in an Hour
New Zealand in an Hour
The Wine Diva has Bubbles for New Years
Jim Cuddy
Tom Cochrane
Bruce McCulloch
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

hello

Vikram Vij takes to the streets.   The Wine Diva brings a serious year end wine list,  her Top 50 wines over $20 and 90 points or better.
How does a family from New Jersey move to California  and become one of the best wine making families in Sonoma?   Chris Benziger guests.
Wine Expert Mireille Sauve from The Wine Umbrella brings great background on Languedoc wines!

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[divider]

 THE SHOW

 Vikram Vij – 
Born in India, Vikram left home at the age of 20 to begin his culinary journey abroad. Vikram immigrated to Alberta in 1989 and started work at the Banff Springs Hotel.

A certified sommelier, Vikram opened his first restaurant, Vij’s, in Vancouver in 1994 to great success. A strict no-reservations policy has led to a nightly line-up outside the restaurant doors. New York  Times food writer Mark Bittman said Vij’s was “easily among the finest Indian restaurants in the world.”  He now operates three restaurants with more in the works  and a gourmet food truck in the Greater Vancouver area, and his line of packaged curries is available at grocery stores across the country. The author of two best-selling cookbooks, he won the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2001 and is a judge on Food Network’s Top Chef Canada and Chopped Canada as well as CBC’s Recipe to Riches.  He’s one of the Dragon’s Den hosts.  Thing is we don’t have enough space for his awards..books, deals and press articles but we will say he was just awarded  Surrey’s Businessperson  of the Year.
It’s the Vij’s Railway Express food truck we’re interested in this week.. we find this culinary celebrity working Georgia street in front of his truck..not just shaking hands but WORKING THE STREETS..Hard core Vikram!
http://www.vijs.ca/
[divider]
 The Wine Diva  

Deanna van Mulligen loves her wines..She is after all The Wine Diva, with an incredibly popular website www.WineDiva.ca
She loves her wines and wine lists.
This week’s list is a beauty.  It’s the Wine Diva Best of 2014 Over $20.00 and 90 points or better.
She’s tasted well over a 1000 wines this year..these are the best of the bunch!!
 
 
WineDiva, Wine List – TOP 50 $20+ 2014
 Catena ‘High Mountain Vines’ Malbec, Mendoza Argentina $22.99

2. Frontaura ‘Nexus One’, Ribera Del Duero Spain $24.95
3. Plume Chardonnay, Napa Valley California $30.00
4. Vignetti Zabu ‘Il Passo’ Nerello Mascalese~Nero d’Avola, Sicily Italy $22.99
5. Tommasi Amarone Della Valpolicella Classico DOC, Veneto Italy $59.99
6. Black Sage Vineyard Zinfandel, Okanagan Valley BC $23.99
7. Poplar Grove Cabernet Franc, Okanagan Valley BC $35.00
8. Ferrari~Carano Fume Blanc, Sonoma County California $25.99
9. Cantina di Negrar Amarone della Valpolicella Classico, Veneto Italy $39.99
10. Tenuta Dell’ Ornellaia LeVolte, Tuscany Italy $34.99
11. Laughing Stock ‘Portfolio’ Okanagan Valley BC $45.00
12. Painted Rock Syrah, Okanagan Valley BC $40.00
13. Caymus Vineyards ’40th Anniversary’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley California $72.00
14. Bodega Beronia Reserva, Rioja Spain $24.99
15. Moon Curser ‘Afraid of the Dark’, Okanagan Valley BC $22.00
16. Cassini Cellars ‘The Godfather’, Okanagan Valley BC N/A
17. Gonzalez Byass ‘Noe’ VORS Aged 30 Years Pedro Ximenez, Jerez Spain $39.99
18. Negretti DOC Nebbiolo d’Alba, La Morra Piedmont Italy $39.99
19. Benjamin Bridge Method Classique Brut Reserve, Gaspereau Valley, Nova Scotia $49.99
20. Wolf Blass ‘Gold Label’ Cabernet Sauvignon, Barossa Valley Australia $27.00
21. Marchesi de Frescobaldi ‘Tenuta di Castiglioni’ Toscana Italy $26.99
22. Black Cloud ‘Altostratus’ Pinot Noir, Okanagan Falls BC $35.00
23. Meyer Family Vineyards ‘Micro Cuvee’ Chardonnay, Naramata Bench, BC $65.00
24. Road 13 ‘Jackpot’ Viognier~Roussanne~Marsanne, Okanagan Valley BC $30.00
25. Belle Glos Pinot Noir ‘Las Alturas Vineyard’, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County, Calif. $43.95
26. Haywire ‘Canyonview Vineyard’ Pinot Noir, Okangan Valley $35.00
27. Sandhill ‘Small Lots Program’ Syrah, Phantom Creek Vineyard, Okanagan Valley BC $40.00

 www.winediva.ca
[divider]
Chris Benziger – Sonoma

Still in high school when the Benziger family moved from White Plains, Chris finished his senior year in wine country. He went on to earn a degree in marketing from the University of San Francisco while spending summers, weekends and every spare moment working at the winery. He officially joined the Benziger Family Winery in 1993 as a Brand Manager.
In addition to sales responsibilities, Chris also oversees the home ranch and its many farm related duties, i.e. shepherding the Benziger flock of sheep and cows, tending to the estate vegetable and fruit trees, and producing the Biodynamic preparations for all our vineyards. Chris feels that the only way to communicate the quality of the wines he promotes is by having the soil from the vineyard in which he’s endorsing under his nails. The best impression a winemaker can leave on his wines are his footprints in the vineyards.
 

 
 
 
Representing the other Benzigers..Mike, Joe, Kathy and  Bob ..we welcome back Chris Benziger..Shepherd and stand up guy!
http://www.benziger.com/
[divider]
Mirelle Sauve – Sommelier and co-founder of The Wine Umbrella
Perhaps one of the most overlooked wine regions in France is Languedoc.
Surprising considering it is the single biggest wine producing region in the world, being responsible for more than a third of France’s total wine production. As recently as 2001, the region produced more wine than the entire United States.
It hasn’t always been good times in Southern France..there was a enough wine surplus to create “Lakes of wine”
New producers and new wineries are changing the region..all for the better.
One of the best Langedoc experts is Mirelle Sauve from Vancouver’s Wine Umbrella.  

Mireille Sauve
The Wine Umbrella is a collection of professionals who leverage each other’s strengths to promote the enjoyment of great wines in Western Canada.
Mireille Sauvé leads the pack of pedigreed wine pros, her background being that of a Sommelier, wine writer and educator with an unstoppable thirst to bring delicious wines to the masses.
www.thewineumbrella.com

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[divider]

 STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON

Ned Bell wins Chef of the year in Toronto
KRISTIAN ELIGH..Gold Medal Chef wins in BC.
The Wine Diva with last minute Wine Gifts

hello

 
The Pride of Newfoundland Alan Doyle kicks off the show.
Then stories on two remarkable Bordeaux blends from the South Okanagan..
The Iconic Osoyoos Larose and the newest blend  that wishes to be World Class –  One Faith.
Guests include  Mathieu Mercier, Harry McWatters, Bill Lui, Anne Vawter and Dick Cleave. 

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[divider]

THE SHOW

 Alan Doyle is fully in the Family Business. That business is music.
That’s what The Doyle’s of Petty Harbour Nfld are known for.
We know Alan from his voice and songs from Great Big Sea and his  solo work.
Now comes Alan Doyle..the  Book!! It’s called Where I Belong.

It’s such a wonderful read..all about growing up in Petty Harbour where any new face stood out and there seemed to be no secrets in the community.
The Doyle’s had no furniture, beds, bathrooms, hot water BUT they had a Piano, which Alan promptly broke.
And running out of heating oil in the Winter was cause for a Out Of Oil Party.
We’ll talk about some of the characters who shaped his World and then  a wine story..a very expensive bottle that belonged to his friend Russell Crowe and Alan’s need for a glass or two.
http://alandoyle.ca/
Listen to Raw Interview here:

[divider]
Two Bordeaux Blends from the Okanagan  Osoyoos LaRose and the new One Faith
 

The invitation said One Faith – a new icon in the Okanagan Valley. A Bordeaux blend to stand alongside other greats.
The names involved are very impressive.
Bill Lui Winn Choi – a wealthy true wine fan..visited and studied all 5 Grand Cru Vineyards in France and was determined to find a vineyard in BC to replicate Bordeaux.

He found his vineyard and local knowledge in two legends Harry McWatters and  Viticulturalist Richard Cleave.
What was missing was a winemaker with the chops to make this blend..Bill Lui found Anne Vawler in Napa.

We’re talking to all four.
Just a note:   The Richard Cleave interview is from a year ago and deals briefly with the McWatters vineyard that he planted. Those vines are included in One Faith. We also talk about the Okanagan and its future. When it comes to BC vineyards – Dicks The Man!!
www.onefaithvineyards.com
[divider]
Its fair to say that one of the  single most popular Bordeaux blends out of BC is Osoyoos LaRose.
What began as a grand experiment has taken its place as one of the best in Canada.
The winemaker of record for many years was Pascal Madevon, a veteran French winemaker.
He brought charm and passion to the Okanagan and has moved on.
Our guest is his replacement Mathieu Mercier.
 

Mathieu was born in 1988 in Cognac to a family of cognac producers. He has degrees in viticulture and enology from two of Bordeaux’s leading universities.
 
He  spent some time in Chile where he worked for Don Melchor, the premium winery of Concha y Toro,”
Then he worked in Bordeaux for André Lurton at Château La Louvière and Château de Rochemorin.  Then to California where he worked in 2010 for Swanson Winery in Napa. He went back in 2012 making wine for Cain Vineyard and Winery in St. Helena.
 
We welcome Mathieu to BC and Tasting Room Radio.  www.osoyooslarose.com

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[divider]

STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON

Looking for Holiday gifts..
The Wine Diva has a bag of lists…
Bruce McCulloch from Kids in the Hall
World Peace through soup
 
 

hello

 

The Pride of Newfoundland Alan Doyle kicks off the show.

Then stories on two remarkable Bordeaux blends from the South Okanagan..

The Iconic Osoyoos Larose and the newest blend  that wishes to be World Class –  One Faith.

Guests include  Mathieu Mercier, Harry McWatters, Bill Lui, Anne Vawter and Dick Cleave. 

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

[divider]

THE SHOW

 Alan Doyle is fully in the Family Business. That business is music.

That’s what The Doyle’s of Petty Harbour Nfld are known for.

We know Alan from his voice and songs from Great Big Sea and his  solo work.

Now comes Alan Doyle..the  Book!! It’s called Where I Belong.

It’s such a wonderful read..all about growing up in Petty Harbour where any new face stood out and there seemed to be no secrets in the community.

The Doyle’s had no furniture, beds, bathrooms, hot water BUT they had a Piano, which Alan promptly broke.

And running out of heating oil in the Winter was cause for a Out Of Oil Party.

We’ll talk about some of the characters who shaped his World and then  a wine story..a very expensive bottle that belonged to his friend Russell Crowe and Alan’s need for a glass or two.

http://alandoyle.ca/

Listen to Raw Interview here:

[divider]

Two Bordeaux Blends from the Okanagan  Osoyoos LaRose and the new One Faith

 

The invitation said One Faith – a new icon in the Okanagan Valley. A Bordeaux blend to stand alongside other greats.

The names involved are very impressive.

Bill Lui Winn Choi – a wealthy true wine fan..visited and studied all 5 Grand Cru Vineyards in France and was determined to find a vineyard in BC to replicate Bordeaux.

He found his vineyard and local knowledge in two legends Harry McWatters and  Viticulturalist Richard Cleave.

What was missing was a winemaker with the chops to make this blend..Bill Lui found Anne Vawler in Napa.

We’re talking to all four.

Just a note:   The Richard Cleave interview is from a year ago and deals briefly with the McWatters vineyard that he planted. Those vines are included in One Faith. We also talk about the Okanagan and its future. When it comes to BC vineyards – Dicks The Man!!

www.onefaithvineyards.com

[divider]

Its fair to say that one of the  single most popular Bordeaux blends out of BC is Osoyoos LaRose.

What began as a grand experiment has taken its place as one of the best in Canada.

The winemaker of record for many years was Pascal Madevon, a veteran French winemaker.

He brought charm and passion to the Okanagan and has moved on.

Our guest is his replacement Mathieu Mercier.

 

Mathieu was born in 1988 in Cognac to a family of cognac producers. He has degrees in viticulture and enology from two of Bordeaux’s leading universities.

 

He  spent some time in Chile where he worked for Don Melchor, the premium winery of Concha y Toro,”

Then he worked in Bordeaux for André Lurton at Château La Louvière and Château de Rochemorin.  Then to California where he worked in 2010 for Swanson Winery in Napa. He went back in 2012 making wine for Cain Vineyard and Winery in St. Helena.

 

We welcome Mathieu to BC and Tasting Room Radio.  www.osoyooslarose.com

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Spotify | RSS

[divider]

STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON

Looking for Holiday gifts..

The Wine Diva has a bag of lists…

Bruce McCulloch from Kids in the Hall

World Peace through soup

 

 

hello

Okanagan Crush Pad presents wines that are Natural and Narrative!
The Wine Diva has Part Two of her Top 100 wines Under $20
Feature Country at 2015  Van Wine Fest Wine Australia pours their best.
He’s a surfer and a winemaker – Paul Clifton from Hahn Family Winery, California!
 

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  [divider]

 THE SHOW

 Okanagan Crush Pad

 Okanagan Crush Pad is one great success story. Originally set up to provide crushing and bottling facilities for small wineries in  BC, they eventually started to make their own wines as well.

 
First came the popular Haywire portfolio. Then Bartier/Scholefield, Bartier Bros, The Bub and now their own label Okanagan Crush Pad.
Plus they’ve now introduced their new “natural” wines..a totally hands off approach to wine making..old school by 100’s of years.
Plus they’ve released a Freeform “narrative” series…wines that tell a story about the place they were created and the creators themselves.
We got a taste of their 2013 releases and a sneak peek at the 2014 vintage.
Joining us are Winemaker Matt Dumayne, co-owner Christine Coletta and wine expert/troublemaker David Scholefield.
www.okanagancrushpad.com
 

[divider]

The Wine Diva

 

We found Daenna van Mulligen – The Wine Diva in Piedmont Italy on yet another glorious wine tour.
Problem was –  she had left behind Part Two on her Top 100 wines under $20.00 and we needed her to talk/take us through it..
I mean, it’s her list. She tasted all these wines..gave them 89 points or better and compiled her “best of” bottles.
If you’re looking for tasty, affordable wines for the Holiday Season..this is the show for you.
Thank You Wine Diva.
 

7. Navarro Lopez ‘Pergolas’ Old Vines Tempranillo, Valdepenas Spain $11.96
8. Hess Select Chardonnay, Monterey California $19.99
9. Castellani ‘Principesco’ Pinot Noir Della Venezie, Italy $14.00
10. Le Vieux Pin ‘Petit’ Blanc Okanagan Valley BC $20.00
11. Graffigna Centenario Reserve Pinot Grigio, San Juan Argentina $14.49
12. Bridlewood Estate Winery Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles California $18.99
13. Smoking Loon Viognier, California $14.99
14. Mission Hill Reserve Pinot Gris, Okanagan Valley BC $19.99
15. Tommasi Viticoltori ‘Le Prunee’ Merlot Della Venezie, Veneto Italy $19.99
16. Ca’ Montebello Oltrepo Pavese Barbera DOC, Lombardia Italy $15.00
17. Miopasso Primitivo, Puglia Italy $18.99
18. Lake Breeze Pinot Blanc, Okanagan Valley BC $19.00
19. Kris Pinot Grigio Della Venezie, Veneto Italy $19.99
20. Domaine La Rosiere ‘Jongieux’, Savoie France $18.99
21. Bodega La Rural ‘La Vuelta’ Syrah, Mendoza Argentina $10.00
22. Masi Masianco Delle Venezie, Italy $18.99
23. Tinhorn Creek Chardonnay, Okanagan Valley BC $18.99
24. J Vineyards ‘Vin Gris’ Russian River Valley California $20.00
25. Montes ‘Limited Selection’ Cabernet Sauvignon~Carmenere, Colchagua Valley $20.00
26. Mt. Boucherie Estate Family Reserve Gamay Noir, Okanagan Valley BC $20.00
27. Tenuta di Angoris ‘Villa Locatelli’ Friulano, Friuli Italy $19.95
28. Selbach Riesling ‘Fish Label’, Germany $17.95
29. River Stone Estate Winery Pinot Gris, Okanagan Valley BC $20.00
30. Undurraga ‘Sibaris’ Reserva Especial Carmenere, Colchagua Valley, Chile $15.99
31. Barone di Valforte Montepulciano d’Abbruzzo, Italy $19.99
32. Delas Saint-Esprit Cotes-Du-Rhone France $19.99
33. Haywire Pinot Gris, Okanagan Valley BC $20.00

www.winediva.ca
[divider]

Wine /Australia – Vancouver International Wine Festival

The Tour was called Savour Australia. Sounds good to me.

At the Vancouver International Wine Festival 2015, Australia will offer a dynamic look at the history, evolution and revolution of its wines through 55 award winning wineries in the main tasting room.
I can honestly tell you that after tasting what Australia is prepared to pour in February  (Feb 20-March 1^st) this will a memorable Wine Fest.
Our guests include Australia’s Global Education Director Mark Davidson and The Executive Director of the Vancouver International Wine festival Harry Hertscheg.
Hahn Family Wines  California
  Paul Clifton is the Director of winemaking  and General manager at Hahn Family Wines.
 

Paul Clifton joined the Hahn Estate team in 2003, after finishing a postgraduate degree in Viticulture/Enology in New Zealand. In 1996, he left a career in firefighting to become a winemaker, a hobby of his until then. As a native of the Monterey Bay, his passions lie in the beauty of the area, its potential for excellence in winegrowing, and the fact that it’s a great surfing destination!!  One of Paul’s greatest talents  is balancing the fact that the year’s best surfing happens right at harvest time..so its grapes first..board work second.
 

Monterey County is the home of Hahn Family’s  Vineyard Estate. The family now owns six estate vineyards two in Arroyo Seco in Monterey and four in the prime Santa Lucia Highlands.
They make Hahn, Hahn SLH, Lucienne, Smith and Hook and a killer Zin called Boneshaker.
 
www.hahnfamilywines.com 
 
 
 [divider]
 

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STORIES WE’RE WORKING ON:

 

• Osoyoos La Rose – Loving that Bordeaux Blend
• Quails Gate – checking the new releases..
• Finding the Wine Diva in Italy
• Alan Doyle – the book, the guy, The music and  the wines.