See, Swirl, Smell, Sip and Savor

Last month I had a wine appreciation Thirstday with my friend Madz at Sage Tapas Bar. I know that being pregnant and all, I am not allowed to even think of sipping a wine. But the event, hosted by his excellency, Canadian Ambassador himself, Neil Reeder, featured variety of award-winning Canadian wines that I am so eager to learn about.

Thanks, Madz, for this girl in a wine glass shot!

From the speeches and brief introductions of Daniel Blais's, A Canadian and the Hotel's head sommelier and director of beverage, and his excellency, Neil Reeder, I've learn that: 

"Canada boasts of high-quality grapes, excellent growing conditions, and investments in the world-class wineries that have contributed to the growing success of Canadian wines both at home and abroad."

During the short introduction, it was explained that "the wine-producing regions of Canada enjoy an ideal climate for slow maturing of grape which results in the right balance of acidity and sweetness." 97% of the Canadian wines are said to be produced in Ontario and British Columbia.

Madz and I also got a chance to chat with Mrs. Reeder. She is so adorable and funny! I felt very comfortable talking with her.

Here are some of the award-winning wines presented during the event. Take note that these are not yet available in the Philippines! Such a loser I am for not even having the chance to try them, but, baby comes first!

Calamus Estate Winery 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon

Ontario Wine Awards 2013 Bronze Medal

Deep burgundy, aromas of strawberries, blackberries and spice. 

Concentrated, luscious fruit forward red wine.

Coyote's Run 2010 Merlot Red Paw

Ottawa Wine and Food Show Competition 2012 Bronze Medal

Silky wine loaded with dark, dried fruit character, powerful velvety tannins

and a long finish.

Coyote's Run 2010 Pinot Noir

Canadian Wine Awards 2012, Ottawa Food and Wine Show 2012 Bronze Medal

and Intervin International Wine Awards 2012

A rich wine that features dark fruit aromas (black cherry and blackberry) 

that dominate the nose. On the palate, there is a rich, velvety tannin with 

more dark fruit flavors and hints of spice.

Lailey Vineyard 2010 Syrah

Ontario Wine Awards 2012, Intervin International Wine Awards 2012 Bronze Medal

Canadian Wine Awards 2012 Silver Medal

A nose of roasted meats, pepper, intense black fruits of blueberry, currants and brambles

Of course, let me feature my drink for that night:

Not wine, but close enough. Haha! Also, wines were served together with some small bites prepared by Makati Shangri-La's Sage Tapas Bar. 

Smoked Salmon on Saffron Brioche

 

 Crustacean Lollipop

 Spring Roll

I forgot the name of this dish :( 

Lamb Cigar 

 Dolma

 Tuna Carpaccio

 Sea-Bass Tartare

 Elderflower Panna Cotta and Strawberry Melba together with some sweets

Salad Cups

I also saw Chef Sharwin Tee, host of Curiosity Got The Chef, during the event, but unfortunately, I got too shy to ask for a photo with him. 

Madz and I, together with Canadian Ambassador and Mrs. Neil Reeder and Makati Shangri-La's Head Sommelier and Director of Beverage Daniel Blais

It was such a great experience. If you want to learn more about Canadian wine, you can check them out in these sites:

Government Website:

Canadian Agri-Food Trade Service

Industry Websites:

BC Wine Institute

Canadian Vintners Association

Wines of Ontario