Wine Tourism in Vaucluse will be held from September 1 to September 30 in Vaucluse, France. Wine cooperative cellars of Vaucluse (South Rhône Valley - Provence) invite you to discover vineyards and villages in Côtes du Rhône, Côtes du Luberon and Côtes du Ventoux.
Meet their winegrowers (visits, accommodation…) and experience Provence gastronomy. Admission is free. For information, call Diane Caillard at 0033-490840828, e-mail diane.caillard@wanadoo.fr or visit http://www.vigneronscooperateurs-84.fr/fcvcv/index.htm.

Discover the Wines of Nova Scotia Fall Festival will be held from September 4 to October throughout Nova Scotia. Wine tastings, grape stomps, gourmet dinners, cooking classes and food pairing events. More than 35 venues and 10,000 visitors. Admission varies by event. For information, call Christine White at 902-492-9291, ext. 115, e-mail marketing@winesofnovascotia.ca or visit http://www.winesofnovascotia.ca/whatsNew/tour2007/.

Napa Valley Grapegrowers Inaugural Harvest STOMP Evening Celebration will be held September 6 from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM at Round Pond Estate in Rutherford, CA. Kick up your heels with the Napa Valley Grapegrowers at the inaugural Harvest STOMP evening celebration. Enjoy local, exhibition-style cuisine, dancing, great bands, an instant cellar raffle, a live auction and incredible wine. Meet Napa Valley's most notable grapegrowers pouring wines made from their own vineyards. Admission is $100. Proceeds will fund education and outreach programs for the organization’s 500 Napa County grape growers and associate businesses. For information, call Larissa Mccullum at 707-944-8311, e-mail larissa@mgpr.com or visit http://www.harveststomp.com.

Nova Scotia Fall Wine Festival Dinners will be held from September 9 to October 21 starting at 5:30 at DesBarres Manor Inn in Guysborough, Nova Scotia. Every Tuesday from September 9th until October 21st, DesBarres Manor Inn Chef Shaun Zwarun and Cellar Keeper Audrey Firth are hosting a special fall Nova Scotia wine dinner. Dinner will begin with a Taste of Nova Scotia reception with Audrey discussing how to match Nova Scotia vintages with local cuisine followed by Chef Shaun's special five course seasonal tasting menu paired with a flight of Nova Scotia wine. Cost is $60. For information, call Douglas Anweiler at 902-533-2099, e-mail danweiler@williamsmoorecapital.com or visit http://www.desbarresmanor.com/packages.

Introduction to Wine Tasting will be held from September 10 to October 01 at 6:30 - 9:30 pm at Divino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. This 4-week course delivers all the basic information you need to appreciate wine and food either at home or in a restaurant. You will be tutored on the effective use of all five senses as you develop your own tasting skills.
All 4 classes feature a dinner, an easy-to-follow lecture and a guided tasting in a relaxed and stylish environment. Admission is $350 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com.

Legal Seafoods Wine Dinner and Month-Long Wine Celebration of Alsace Wines will be held September 11 at 7 PM at Legal Seafoods at 2001 International Drive in Mclean, Virginia. Legal Sea Foods will host an exclusive Alsatian wine dinner at 7 PM, priced at $85 per person (tax and gratuity not included) on Thursday, September 11th at the McLean, Virginia location in Tysons Galleria II. Admission is $85 per person excluding tax and gratuity. For information, call Heather Freeman at 800-987-9806, e-mail heather@heatherfreeman.com.

Culinary Getaway in Napa Valley will be held from September 12 to September 14 in Napa Valley, CA. Join us in Napa Valley for a Culinary Getaway where we will cook together in a spectacular setting using the finest in fresh, local, seasonal ingredients. During our Getaway, we will taste artisan cheeses, learn about sea salts and chocolate and dine in some of the finest restaurants and private settings. We will taste exceptional wines and experience the local culture in beautiful Napa Valley. Groups are kept small to ensure unique, personal experiences. Admission is $1200 per person for double-occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-518-7107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://www.culinarygetaways.com/getaways/?g=napaWeekend.

Bobcaygeon Wine & Food Festival will be held September 13 from 12 noon to 7:30 pm at Kawartha Settlers' Village in Bobcaygeon, Ontario. This is a tasting festival of Ontario and international wines, beers & foods from local caterers & restaurants. The venue is a restored village of buildings from the 1800s. Visitors will also be able to enjoy several seminars, partcipate in a silent auction & watch artists at work. Admission is $12 per person. Proceeds go to Bobcaygeon & Area Chamber of Commerce & Kawartha Settlers' Village. It is a charitable organization & money raised helps with the administration of the village & ongoing maintenance. For information, call Margaret Kupusa at 705-738-2202, e-mail mkupusa@sympatico.ca or visit http://www.bobcaygeonwinefestival.com.

Viva Mexico! Hands-on Cooking Class at DiVino Wine Studio will be held September 13 10:30 am - 1:30 pm at Divino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. Celebrate Mexico's Independence with Chef Maria Amalia Garza from The Cultural Kitchen in this hands-on class. The patriotic menu features Chile de Uña (tomatillo chipotle relish), Queso con Tomate al Tequila (gooey melted cheese with tomatoes, onions and tequila), Tinga Poblana (spicy shredded chicken Puebla style), Frijoles Veracruzanos (refried beans, Veracruz style) and Mangos Flameados al Tequila (tequila flambeed mangos over ice cream). Admission is $95.00 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com.

The Third Annual Canadian Smooth Jazz Concert Series will be held from September 14 to September 17 at 12:30pm at 1025 York Road at Chateau des Charmes in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. The Bosc family invites you to share award-winning Canadian smooth jazz and wine. Their Vineyard Courtyard, surrounded by the pristine St. David’s Bench Vineyard, will be the setting for home-grown magic. Chef Erik Peacock from Wellington Court Café completes the experience with a perfect Niagara Wine Country casual lunch. All net proceeds will be directed to the St. Catharines General Hospital Foundation. Single concert, lunch, a glass of wine $80 pp. All three concerts $215 pp. Lunch served at 12:30. Concert begins at 2:00. Open seating. For information, call Chateau Des charmes at 905905-323-3863, e-mail tourcentre@chateaudescharmes.com or visit http://chateaudescharmes.com/experience/special_events.html.

South African Wine Festival will be held September 19 at 7 pm at Willow Park Wines & Spirits in Calgary, Alberta. Experience the wonderful wines of South Africa, home to great winemaking for 350 years. A place where old world traditional meets new world style. Uncover wines that range in style from full-flavoured reds to elegant whites with subtle charm. There will also be a number of beautiful recipe books to take away. Talk to knowledgeable South African wine ambassadors on hand at the event who will educate you on all things South African. Admission is $40. For information, call Julie Fitzsimmons at 403-296-1640 ext 221, e-mail julie@willowpark.net or visit http://www.willowparkwines.com/events.htm.

Mangia! Bevi! Italian Wine/Beer and Food Matching will be held September 22 from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at Pub Italia in Ottawa, Ontario. VINUM NOVUM WINE AGENCY in collaboration with the Vendange Institute celebrates the harvest with a focus on fine Italian wines from small producers. Join us for a taste of Savuto Doc 2003 (Odoardi), Montecucco Doc 2004 (Fattoria Capannacce), Rosso di Montefalco Doc 2005 (Azienda Agricola Scacciadiavoli), Vernaccia di San Gimignano Docg Vigna Aprico 2007 (Le Solive). Admission is $76.50. For information, call David Mollica at 613-715-9399, e-mail info@vinumnovum.com or visit http://mangia-bevi.eventbrite.com.

An Israeli Journey will be held September 24 at 7:00 PM at Eight Wine Bar in Toronto, Ontario. Wineries such as Yarden, Margalit, Pelter, Ella Valley and Sea Horse. wines of Israel are very much in vogue nowadays. A 7-course tasting menu by chef Derek Kennedy. Admission is $175. For information, call Zoltan Szabo at 416-350-8188, e-mail zsz@zoltanszabo.ca or visit http://www.zoltanszabo.ca/events.asp.

Earthsave Canada 10th Anniversary Gala will be held September 26 from 6 PM - 9 PM at 3250 Commercial Drive (Croatian Cultural Centre) in Vancouver, BC. Wine and nibblies featuring vegan wines from Blasted Church; Portland based vegan Chef Isa Chandra Moskowitz prepares the appetizers; Howard Lyman, author of Mad Cowboy takes the stage. Admission is $15.00 in advance; $20 at door. Proceeds go to EarthSave Canada is a nonprofit, educational organization promoting awareness of the health, environmental and ethical consequences of our food choices. www.earthsave.ca For information, call Chris Yli-luoma at 604-731-5885, e-mail christina@earthsave.ca or visit http://tasteofhealth.earthsave.ca/entertainment.

The First Annual Whine, Dine and Silent Auction will be held September 27 at Le Kaprice in Kapuskasing, Ontario. Ontario Wine Guy Enterprises and Animal Rescue of Kapuskasing are joining forces to help raise money for the animals of the Kapuskasing area who have been abused and mistreated. Our first event will be a wine & food pairing held at Le Kaprice Fine Dining Restaurant featuring food from their chef Mylene and the wines of Peninsula Ridge Estate Winery, Pillitteri Estates Winery, Smith & Wilson Estate Wines and Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery. Admission is $50 per person. Proceeds go to Animal Rescue of Kapuskasing, a non-profit, all volunteer group that was formed in 2000 and whose sole purpose is to help abandoned, neglected or abused animals in the Kapuskasing area. They receive no help from any government institution or the OSPCA so 100% of their funds come from fundraising - like this event - or through donations. For information, call Patricia Dinsmore at 705-335-4935 (after 6pm), e-mail patricia@ontariowineguy.com or visit http://www.ontariowineguy.com.

Taste of Petaluma will be held September 27 from 11:30am - 4:30pm in Petaluma, CA. Embark on a culinary journey of our finest restaurants, wineries, breweries and food purveyors. Admission is $35 in advance, $40 day of event. Proceeds go to Cinnabar Theater, celebrating 35 years of live community theater in Sonoma County. For information, call Trudee Herman at 707-763-8920, e-mail trudee@tasteofpetaluma.org or visit http://www.CinnabarTheater.org.

Keller Estate Harvest Dinner will be held September 27 5:30pm - 8pm at 5875 Lakeville Hwy in Petaluma, CA. With harvest well on its way, we take a break and thank Mother Nature for her work. Join us as we celebrate harvest in style. We will be tasting the juice and young wines from the 2008 vintage. Admission is $70 per person. Club Members $60.. For information, call Scott Jordan at 707-7652117, e-mail sjordan@kellerestate.com or visit http://www.kellerestate.com/events/index.htm.

Fall Flavours will be held from September 30 to October 5 from 9am - 1am daily in Charlottetown, PEI. For six days, Chef Michael Smith's kitchen is an entire Island. Fall Flavours is a new culinary festival taking place on Prince Edward Island with experiences ranging from the traditional to the gourmet. Some highlights include a Handcrafted Ales and Wine Festival, a Winemaker's Dinner featuring special guest winemaker Peter Dennis and Fortune Feast featuring Chef Michael Smith and winemaker John Rossignol. Admission varies from $15-$175. For information, call Shannon Pratt at 902-393-7300, e-mail spratt@walkandseacharlottetown.com or visit http://www.fallflavours.ca.

Austrian wines by the glass will be held from October 1-31 at the Wellington Gastropub in Ottawa, Ontario. Admission is free. For information, call Shane Waldron at 613 -729 1315, e-mail shane@thewellingtongastropub.com or visit http://www.thewellingtongastropub.com.

Food & Wine Tour of Provence will be held from October 4 to October 10 in Cabrieres d'Avignon, Vaucluse, France. Enjoy the food and wines of the Southern Rhone during a week-long stay in a unique Provencal village. Cookings lessons from a Michelin-starred chef, private professional tasting at Chateau du Beaucastel and visits to other wineries in Chateauneuf du Pape, Gigondas and Vacqueyras. When not wine touring or eating in some of the best restaurants of the region, there is time to relax and enjoy the village, or slip in a game of golf or a bike ride. The cost is 2900 Euros. For information, call Lana Quinn at 604-505-6290, e-mail info@lavieenroseprovence.com or visit http://www.lavieenroseprovence.com.

The Loose Goose Wine Festival will be held from October 4-5 in Santa Clarita Valley in Valencia, California. Southern California's largest wine encounter, located 35 miles north of downtown Los Angeles. Admission is $55 presale/$65 door. Proceeds go to Henry Mayo Newhall Health Foundation and Brenda Mehling Cancer Fund. For information, call Cathy Craig at 661-799-9463, e-mail ccatgo@gmail.com or visit http://www.loosegoosewinefestival.com.

Culinary Getaway to Provence will be held from October 5-11 in Provence, France. Join Sherry Page for a Culinary Getaway to Provence. During the Getaway, we will explore the food, history and culture of this area of France. We will visit the markets, restaurants and quaint towns of the region. We will tour vineyards and caves and have special tastings. We will dine in some of the finest local restaurants and private settings. We will cook together with a French chef, tour an olive mill and learn about sea salts and chocolates. We welcome singles, couples, friends, family. Admission is $3500 per person, based on double occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-518-7107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://www.culinarygetaways.com/getaways/provence/?g=provenceCulinaryWeek.

South Africa Hiking Wine Adventure & Safari will be held from October 10-18 in Johannesburg, South Africa. This tour starts with a three day Safari in Kruger National Park. We then migrate into wine country starting with Stellenbosch and then the cooler temperatures of the Elgin Valley giving us a great perspective on the biodiversity in the region. Admission is $3200 plus $560 for internal flights. Contact us at info@zephyradventures.com or 888.758.8687 for details. Admission is $3200. For information, call Reno Walsh at 888-758.8687, e-mail reno@zephyradventures.com or visit http://www.zephyradventures.com/locations_South_Africa_Wine_Tour.htm.

Autumn Bounty will be held from October 17 to October 19 at Delta Sun Peaks Resort in Sun Peaks, British Columbia. Autumn Bounty is a showcase of fine food, wine and art, celebrating the best in the Thompson-Okanagan Valley. The signature event of the weekend is the Gala Dinner and Reception...a multi-course dinner that is an ode to the season featuring local producers paired with top regional Delta chefs. Savour the wine that is strategically matched with each course. Admission is $29-$125 (depending on event). For information, call Melanie Simmons at 250-578-6000, e-mail communications@sunpeaksresort.com or visit http://www.deltasunpeaksresort.com/AB2008.

Italy Fall 2008 will be held from October 17 to October 26 in Rome, Italy. A wonderful 10-day journey of Tuscany and Piemonte through gentle hills, vineyards, sea cliffs, and Alpine views organized by DiVino Wine Studio and Think Travel, both based in Ottawa, Ontario. The tour is packed with exciting activities such as visits to wineries and educational wine tastings, olive oil seminars and tastings, cooking classes and much more. The tour starts in Rome and ends in Florence and does not include air travel so you can join in from anywhere in the world and easily extend your stay to visit these marvelous capitals of art, fashion and culture. Tour leader is Antonio Mauriello. Learn about culture, good food and unforgettable wines. The cost is $3,650. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com/wine_tours.html.

Martin & Weyrich Winery's Italian Cars & Food Celebrazione will be held October 18 from 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm at Martin & Weyrich's Villa Toscana in Paso Robles, California. Twilight in Tuscany at the luxurious 5-Star Villa Toscana.
Featuring Café Roma, San Luis Obispo, California.
Ferraris & Flat Iron Steak Maseratis, Manicotti & Marsala (Chicken) Lamborghinis & Lasagna (Meat & Vegetarian) Quattro of Salads, Passed Bruschetta, Desserts (Cheeses, Fruits & Cookies) Live Music by Oasis & more! Admission is $90pp for wine club members, $120pp for non-members. For information, call Maura Osbourn at 805-238-2520, e-mail mosbourn@martinweyrich.com or visit http://www.martinweyrich.com/events/winery_events.php.

Martin & Weyrich Winery's Italian Family Celebrazione will be held from October 18 to October 19 from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm at Martin & Weyrich's Tasting Room in Paso Robles, California. Live Music, grape stomp, barrel samples, wine specials, PIZZA & more. Cooking Demonstration with Villa Toscana’s Executive Chef, Richard Graham: $30/person, $15/person for club members. For information, call Maura Osbourn at 805-238-2520, e-mail mosbourn@martinweyrich.com or visit http://www.martinweyrich.com/events/winery_events.php.

Five Deadly Zins will be held October 21 at 7pm at The Tasting Room at Vintage Irving in New York, new york. Taste five zinfandel varieties including St. Francis "Old Vines" 2004, Rancho Zabaco 2006, Earthquake 2006, Mariah 2004, and Seven Deadly Zins 2006. This event will be hosted by Vintage Irving's resident sommelier, and the wines will be paired with a selection of cheese. Admission is $40. For information, call Melissa Mccarthy at 212-228-4200x8008, e-mail pourhousenyc@yahoo.com.

Worldwide WOW Photo Exhibition & Gala will be held October 23 5:30pm-11pm at Artists of the World in Calgary, Alberta. For one night, the world comes to Calgary in a fusion of cuisine, art, entertainment and culture. Your Worldwide passport provides unlimited access to food, wine, beer and spirits from the four corners of the globe while the great music and dance traditions of the world entertain you. Admission is $125. Proceeds go to Elevate is a dynamic group of Calgary women committed to strong community involvement and dedicated to empowering people. Elevate hosts this annual gala in support of the Empowering Families Program which was created to help low-income families break the cycle of poverty. For information, call Suzanne Ebelher at 403-686-0636, e-mail ebelhers@telus.net or visit http://www.elevatecpc.ca/webpage/1002501/1000625.

The 25th Silver Anniversary Celebration Wine in the Pines will be held from October 24-25 at 6:00 PM at Keystone Resort in Dillon, CO. Banfi Vintners presents Winemakers Dinner on Friday. 500 international wines and gourment food on Saturday. A benefit for Cerebral Palsy of Colorado. Admission is $125 to $350 Per Person. For information, call Liz Neafus-stenzel at 303-691-9339 x 1163, e-mail lizns@cpco.org or visit http://www.wineinthepines.org.

Seattle Food and Wine Experience will be held from October 25 to October 26 from 11 am - 7pm at Qwest Field and Event Center in Seattle, WA. Over 800 wines from around the globe, gourmet foods, demonstration kitchen, World Wine Challenge, "eco" lounge featuring organic wines and food. Admission is $44. Proceeds go to Heroes for the Homeless, committed to making a difference in the lives of those without housing by offering food, a hot beverage, clothing, hygiene products, outdoor survival supplies, and information on how to get social service assistance. For information, call Bonnie Raffo at 206-697-4512, e-mail bonnie@exploregreatwine.com or visit http://www.seattlefoodandwineexperience.com.

Shaw Festival Halloween Gala will be held October 31 at 6 pm in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. A Halloween Gala Reception & Dinner with a Rare Wine & Fine Art Auction in support of the Shaw Theatre. Over 25 lots of wines with many 90+ Parker ratings, great Bordeaux, rare ports and large format bottles. Costumes optional, masks recommended and fun required. Tickets from the Shaw at 1-800-511-7429 Admission is $ 100. Proceeds go to The Shaw Guild endowment fund raises money to support the Shaw Theatre. For information, call Peter Gill at 905-468-5190, e-mail gillhome@cogeco.ca.

Celebrate NC Wines will be held November 1 from 1:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at NC State University Club in Raleigh, NC. NC State and industry experts will lead an afternoon wine symposium, followed by a gala reception and four-course wine dinner that will feature local culinary specialties paired with North Carolina wines. Sessions include "Wine & Food Pairings: Tasting is Believing" and "The Nose Knows: How to Tell When Wine Goes Bad." Admission is $75 - $175. Proceeds benefit wine and grape research in the NC State College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. For information, call Mary elizabeth Brake at 919-515-2000, e-mail maryelizabeth_brake@ncsu.edu or visit http://www.cals.ncsu.edu/advancement/NCwines.

The Art of Food & Wine Palm Desert will be held from November 6-9 in Palm Desert, CA. A four-day celebration attracting thousands of art and culinary enthusiasts from across California and around the country each year to enjoy the very best in art, food and wine education and hospitality. The event features food and wine tastings and competitions, wine pairing dinners, celebrity chef demonstrations, culinary seminars, art, music, shopping and golf - all nestled in Southern California's beautiful Coachella Valley. Already scheduled to appear are David Rosengarten, Rick Tramonto, Ina Pinkney, The Hearty Boys and Tommy Tang – with many more still to come. Admission varies by event. For information, call Tiffany Greco at 866-96-TASTE, e-mail tgreco@kempersports.com or visit http://www.artoffoodandwine.com.

Cornucopia will be held from November 6-10 in Whistler, BC. Whistler's Celebration of Wine and Food presents a delectable five days of wine, food and tasting events. Celebrate gourmet food coupled with fine wine in one of the most beautiful places on earth. Sit in on fascinating seminars with wineries, critics and wine professionals, or attend winemaker dinners where sumptuous multi-course meals are paired with a variety of wines. Sniff, sip, swirl and savour a selection of vintages at various tasting events, take a Chef's Trip to the Farm, or make the scene at renowned after-parties and brunches. Cornucopia brings Whistler to life with a feast of food and wine festivities to capture your every sense. Admission varies. For information, call Jasmine Robinson at 604-932-3399, e-mail jrobinson@watermarkinc.ca or visit http://whistlercornucopia.com.

Wine Down Main Street will be held November 7 from 7:00 - 10:00 p.m. on Main Street in Franklin, TN. Just 20 miles south of Nashville, more than 30 shops play host to wines from around the world. Participants receive a booklet listing the wines and descriptions and a commemorative wine glass. Taste wines, shop, sample food from area restaurants, listen to music from many live acts and enjoy all for a good cause. Proceeds from this event go to the Boys & Girls Club of Franklin/Williamson County in Tennessee. Admission is $75 per person. For information, call Phyllis Hyland at 615-599-9706, e-mail phyhyland@gmail.com or visit http://www.winedownmainstreet.com.

Tutored Tasting: Great Wines of Argentina will be held November 7 at 4:00 pm at Ottawa wine & Food Show in Ottawa, Ontario. This dynamic South American country in an emerging wine region that has more to offer wine enthusiasts than you might expect. This viticultural paradise produces a surprising range of value priced wines. Malbec has become the signature red grape, yet, there is a range of impressive wines made with Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo and the indigenous Torrontes grape. Join sommelier Debbie Trenholm of The Savvy Grapes as she leads you through a wine tasting of these grape varieties and unlocks the secrets to the key Argentinean wine regions and their distinctive wine styles. This will be a delicious journey to consider Argentina as your next wine adventure. Admission is $25. For information, call Jay Hunt at 613-755-1111, e-mail jay.hunt@sympatico.ca or visit http://www.playerexpo.com/tutored_tastings.php.

Tutored Tasting: Sherry and Umami will be held November 8 at 5:45 PM at Ottawa Wine and Food Show in Ottawa, Ontario. Come and enjoy an introduction to and tasting of Sherry in some of its many styles and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of one of Spain’s great contributions to the wine world. Sherry is well known among food and wine circles for its versatility as an accompaniment and also as an ingredient. Among its most recent, famous adepts, is the owner-chef of the world’s best restaurant (The Fat Duck, as chosen by Restaurant Magazine), Heston Blumenthal. Three Michelin star Blumenthal is a particular admirer of Sherry’s ability to increase the umami of many different foods. He has thirty different offerings by the glass in his restaurant, and also uses it of course as an ingredient in his world-renowned cuisine.way, they are outstanding wine values that are worth looking for and, once found, worth waiting for. Admission is $25. For information, call Maureen Murphy at 613-755-1111, e-mail mcmurphy@rogers.com or visit http://www.playerexpo.com/tutored_tastings.php.

An evening like no other in Niagara will be held November 8 at 11 am at 1025 York Road at Chateau des Charmes in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. This elegant affair is quickly becoming one of the most recognized events in Niagara. Guests will be treated to an exclusive pre-show reception catered by Niagara College Culinary Institute and served award-winning Niagara wines. There will be high-end live and silent auctions, and as always, the highlight is our concert event showcasing some of North America’s finest talent. Over the years, artists like Colm Wilkinson, Colin Mochrie, Women Fully Clothed, Amy Sky, Michael Burgess, David Rogers, Mark Camilleri, Jim Brickman, Carol Welsman & Pavlo have shared their talents. Returning this year as Master of Ceremonies, is the funny and ever popular, Neil Aitchison, along with a variety of extraordinary Canadian talent, including violinist Papa Duke, Niagara’s own The Mantini Sisters. Admission is $150. For information, call Chateau Des charmes at 905-684-7619, e-mail tourcentre@chateaudescharmes.com or visit http://chateaudescharmes.com/experience/special_events.html.

Baccanale will be held from November 8 to November 23 from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. at Imola fortress and all over town in Imola (Bo), Italy. festival of Sangiovese in the area with cooking courses, wine tastings, shows, conferences, with winemakers and farmers. Admission is free. For information, call Guido Penso at +39-0547 301989, e-mail guidopenso@vinotour.it or visit http://www.baccanaleimola.it.

A Celebration of Cultures Wine Gala 2008 will be held November 8 from 6:30 pm - 11:00 p.m. at Capitol Centre 150 Main St. E in North Bay , Ontario . Come enjoy drink selections from cellars of the world, expert advice, vintages and brews from specialty beer, whiskey, liqueurs, scotch and martini bar. There will also be auctions and jazz music to listen and dance to. Admission is $75 before Sept 15 after Sept 15 $100 and VIP Pass is $200. For information, call Judy Park at 705-474-1944 ext. 226, e-mail winegalacoordinator@capitolcentre.ca or visit http://www.capitolcentre.ca.

Uncork the Diversity of New York Wines with Robert Ketchin will be held November 9 from 1:45 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. at Ottawa Wine & Food Show, Lansdowne Park in Ottawa, Ontario. We will visit three regions, Long Island, Hudson River and Finger Lakes, where we will discover how nature's influence of climate and soil plus the selection of specific varietals and the skills of the winemaker have evolved. Admission is $25. For information, call Dawn Harvie at 613-755-1111, e-mail events@sommelierguild.com or visit http://www.ottawawineandfoodshow.com.

San Diego Bay Wine and Food Festival will be held from November 12 to November 16 at Embarcadero Park North in San Diego, CA. The 5th Annual San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival is an international showcase of the world's premier wine and spirits producers, chefs and culinary personalities, and gourmet foods. Held November 12-16, 2008, the event benefits the American Institute of Wine & Food culinary arts scholarship program. Over 700 wineries, 60 of San Diego’s top fine dining restaurants and 30 gourmet food companies and exhibitors will participate in the 2008 Festival. Admission varies per Event. Silent and Live Auctions benefit the American Institute of Wine and Food scholarship program. For information, call Mary Crocker at 858-578-9463, e-mail marycrocker2@gmail.com or visit http://www.worldofwineevents.com.

Pittsburgh Whiskey and Fine Spirits Festival will be held November 14 from 6:00 PM until 9:00 PM at East Club Lounge at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, PA. The second annual Pittsburgh Whiskey and Fine Spirits Festival will once again showcase an array of premium whiskeys, but will also offer fine tequilas, vodkas, rum, gins, and cognacs. More than 100 brands representing several countries from around the globe will be poured. Admission is $85 in advance and $95 at the door. Benefits the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. For information, call Samantha Sosniak at 412-281-2681, e-mail ssosniak@elisco.com or visit http://www.pittsburghwhiskeyfestival.com.

Importing Wine For Pleasure & Profit will be held November 15 from 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM at The Old Mill Inn & Spa in Toronto, Ontario . Featuring C. Steven Trenholme, a 28-year veteran of the Canadian beverage alcohol industry, with details on how to import wine, spirits and beer into the Ontario marketplace. Pre-registration required. Admission is $295. For information, call C. Steven Trenholme at 416-883-3580 or e-mail cstrenholme@sympatico.ca.

International Wine Competition will be held from November 15 to November 16 at 8:00 a.m. at Reliant Center in Houston, Texas. Wines judged from across Texas, the United States and throughout the world, where medals will be awarded by our wine experts. Admission is cost. Proceeds go to Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Educational scholarships. For information, call Lisa Ward at 832-667-1000, e-mail lward214@aol.com or visit http://www.hlsr.com/ag.

The Wine Tasting Challenge will be held November 24 at Four Seasons Hotel & Resort in Toronto, Ontario. Now in its 5th season and with a purse in excess of $100,000 in prizes, cash, trips, stemware and scholarships. Admission is free. For information, call Barb Tatarnic at 905-688-5550, e-mail ccovi@brocku.ca or visit http://www.winetastingchallenge.com.

Sensory Perception & Tasting Seminar will be held November 27 at 6:00 pm at The London Club, 177 Queens Ave. in London, Ontario. Learn about the chemistry of tasting and how genetics play a part in determining whether you are a non-taster or super-taster. This seminar includes a scientific taste test using PROP/PTC, and is ideally suited to chefs, mixologists, vino-thusiasts and anyone interested in culinary and drinks culture. Admission is $25 in advance; $30 at the door. For information, call Paul Mitchell at 519-870-4193, e-mail natural@execulink.com or visit http://www.artofdrink.com.

Thanksgiving Feast at the Carlton Hotel & Grill will be held November 27 11:00 am - 7:00 pm at 6005 El Camino Real in Atascadero, CA. Come join us for a traditional Thanksgiving feast accompanied with wine! Reservations recommended. Admission is $35.00 per person ~ $30.00 seniors ~ $15.00 children under 12 ~ $7.00 children under 7. For information, call Maura Osbourn at 805-461-5100, e-mail mosbourn@martinweyrich.com or visit http://www.the-carlton.com/things_to_do.

The 25th Annual Holiday Open House will be held from November 28 to November 29 from 11 AM - 4:30 PM at Sonoma Valley in Kenwood, CA. Join nineteen wineries throughout the heart of Sonoma Valley for this annual celebration and enjoy wine tastings, meet winemakers, mingle in our caves & cellars, stock up on your favorite wines for the holidays, pick up holiday gifts for your friends & family and relish in wine country holiday cheer! Admission is $30 per person for both days. For information, call Josie Gay at 866-794-9463, e-mail josie@heartofsonomavalley.com or visit http://www.heartofsonomavalley.com/events/event.wine?idx=30.

Diaz Decadence Festival Summer Sun Festival will be held from December 8 to January 8 at Diaz Strand Hotel & Resort in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This Amsterdam-style street festival forms part of the annual Summer Sun Festival at the Diaz Strand Hotel in Mossel Bay. The festival will feature some of South Africa’s top wine farms showcasing their best wines and to complement the fine wines on offer, a wide selection of delicious food delicacies will also be available to the public. Admission is free. For information, call Mimi Finestone at 044-873 4393, e-mail mimi@matrixads.co.za or visit http://www.diazbeach.co.za.

Diaz Decadence Festival will be held from December 12 to December 14 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This Amsterdam-styled street festival will feature some of South Africa’s top wine farms showcasing their best wines. Admission is R60pppd. For information, call Tania Swart at 084-5833144, e-mail tania@matrixads.co.za or visit http://www.summersunfestival.co.za.

Shine at the Carlton's Divine Countdown to 2009! will be held December 31 at 7:00 pm at The Carlton Hotel in Atascadero , CA. Multi-course menu complete with wine pairings, champagne toast, dancing, all catered by Executive Chef Richard Graham. Admission is $95/person, $85 for wine club members (plus tax & gratuity). For information, call Maura Osbourn at 805-461-5100, e-mail mosbourn@martinweyrich.com or visit http://www.the-carlton.com/things_to_do.

Fourth Annual Wine Market Council Research Conference will be held January 12 at The New York Public Library in New York City, NY. Wine Market Council will present the highlights from its 2008 research studies in three cities in January 2009. Conference program will examine attitudes, behaviors and trends among U.S. wine consumers and highlight wine sales trends, the economy and changes in how consumers are shopping for and buying wine. Founded in 1994, the Wine Market Council is a non-profit trade association representing all tiers of the wine industry. Admission is $90.00. For information, call Adele Hazan at 707-967-5511, e-mail ahazan@webershandwick.com or visit http://www.winemarketcouncil.com.

Fourth Annual Wine Market Council Research Conference will be held January 14 9:00 AM at The Gene Siskel Film Center in Chicago, IL. Wine Market Council will present the highlights from its 2008 research studies in three cities in January 2009. Conference program will examine attitudes, behaviors and trends among U.S. wine consumers and highlight wine sales trends, the economy and changes in how consumers are shopping for and buying wine. Founded in 1994, the Wine Market Council is a non-profit trade association representing all tiers of the wine industry. Admission is $90.00. For information, call Adele Hazan at 707-967-9299, e-mail ahazan@webershandwick.com or visit http://www.winemarketcouncil.com.

Fourth Annual Wine Market Council Research Conference will be held January 16 at 9:00 AM at Wells Fargo Center for the Arts, Merlo Theatre in Santa Rosa, CA. Wine Market Council will present the highlights from its 2008 research studies in three cities in January 2009. Conference program will examine attitudes, behaviors and trends among U.S. wine consumers and highlight wine sales trends, the economy and changes in how consumers are shopping for and buying wine. Founded in 1994, the Wine Market Council is a non-profit trade association representing all tiers of the wine industry. Admission is $90. For information, call Adele Hazan at 707-967-5511, e-mail ahazan@webershandwick.com or visit http://www.winemarketcouncil.com.

Taste BC 2009 will be held January 22 from 4:30-7:30 pm at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Vancouver, British Columbia. From wineries to restaurants, cheese to cider and seafood to beer. Attractions include live music, door prizes, a raffle draw and a Silent Auction featuring luxury local items. Tickets are on sale now at all Liberty Wine Merchants. Admission is $49.99. Proceeds go to the BC Children's Hospital - Oak Tree Clinic. For information, call Regan Schwartz at 604-739-7801, e-mail regan@libertywinemerchants.com or visit http://www.libertywinemerchants.com.

International Food & Wine Experience of Charlottesville will be held from January 23 to January 25 from 8am - 10pm in Charlottesville, VA. Includes seminars during which fine foods will be paired with wines, champagne breakfasts, a Grand Tasting, and a final evening Grand Banquet. This will be the first time Virginia wineries will be integrated into the global wine environment. Admission varies by event. A portion of the proceeds from the event will fund scholarships to Virginia residents going to Virginia colleges and universities targeted to the hospitality industry. For information, call Tami Keaveny at 434-296-0001, e-mail shamrockpr@gmail.com or visit http://www.ifweoc.com.

Australia Day tasting - 'Celebrate Australia' will be held January 24 from 7:30 - 10:30pm at Vancouver Library Promenade, 350 W. Georgia St. in Vancouver, BC. Admission is $50 + taxes. For information, call Marnie Williamson at 778-340-7754, e-mail marnie.williamson@wineaustralia.com or visit http://www.wineaustralia.com.

Terroir : Taste the Land Winter Winemaker's Dinner will be held January 24 at 6:30 at Strewn Winery in Niagara-on-the-lake, Ontario. Celebrate "Le Gout de Terroir" with Strewn's Winemaker Joe Will for a "Terroir Taste of the Land" Winemaker's Dinner. Paired with Chef Alain Levesque of Terroir La Cachette restaurant this evening offers a four course menu with Joe matching each course with his elegantly crafted VQA wines. Admission is $125. For information, call Christine Nicholson at 905-468-1229, e-mail nicholson.ca@gmail.com or visit http://www.strewnwinery.com.

Truffle Getaway in Provence will be held from January 25 to January 31 in Provence, France. Join us for a fun and unique experience in Provence as we focus on the king of truffles, the black melanosporum. During our week together, we will go on a truffle hunt with dogs, visit a truffle market, cook truffle meals together, explore the wines of the region, go behind the scenes in local restaurants, visit the local villages and markets and learn about the history and culture of this beautiful region of Provence. We will meet local sommeliers, winery and wine cave owners and learn directly from them about the wines of Provence and of the Rhone Valley. Groups are kept small to ensure intimate, personal experiences. Admission is $4,000 per person, based on double-occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-518-7107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://www.culinarygetaways.com/getaways/provence/?g=provenceTruffleWeek.

Days of Wine and Chocolate will be held January 26 at 6:00 pm at U of T Faculty Club, 41 Willcocks St. in Toronto, Ontario. Sue DeGrandis, who grew up on a cocoa plantation in St. Lucia, West Indies and who now owns the store Le Chocolate Belge in Toronto, will speak on the history, growing and manufacturing of cocoa. Sue and Michael Pinkus, the "Grape Guy" and producer of the newsletter Ontario Wine Review, will lead us through a matching of 6 Ontario wines with 6 chocolates made by Sue. To register for the event on-line go to www.ontariowinesociety.com. Or, contact the Ontario Wine Society, Toronto Chapter, at 416 921 9798, owscommunication@hotmail.com or Admission is $47 members, $57 non-members. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-489 0979, e-mail yvonnken@pathcom.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

Australia Day tasting - 'Celebrate Australia' will be held January 30 from 7 - 10 pm at The Fermenting Cellar - The Distillery District in Toronto, Ontario. Admission is $50 + taxes. Proceeds go to The Sick Kids Foundation. For information, call Marnie Williamson at 416-323-1893, e-mail marnie.williamson@wineaustralia.com or visit http:// http://www.wineaustralia.com/canada/Default.aspx?tabid=4602.

BOY - Breakfast On Yarra will be held February 1 at 8:30 am in Melbourne, Victoria. The annual ‘Breakfast on the Yarra’ has become a tradition with the Guild for over 30 years. Come along to enjoy a great morning on the banks of the Yarra River. Includes fully cooked BBQ breakfast with a selection of bubbly, reds and whites from the Guild Cellar Admission is $30 (Members $20). For information, call Terry Coles at 61+ 3-9438 5554, e-mail t.coles@bigpond.net.au or visit http://www.wineguild.com.au.

The 20th Annual Wine and Chocolate tasting will be held February 7 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at 11455 Old Redwood Hwy in Healdsburg, CA. Celebrate Rodney Strong Vineyards’ 50th Anniversary by attending our 20th annual Wine & Chocolate Fantasy. We provide delicious Rodney Strong wines while local chocolatiers offer up delectable confections to accompany them. Admission is $40 General Admission; $35 Wine Club. For information, call Sara Randall at 707-431-1533, e-mail randall@rodneystrong.com or visit http://www.rodneystrong.com.

CHOCOLATE & WINE IS DIVINE will be held February 7 from 1 pm - 2 :15 pm at Strewn Winery in Niagara-on-the-lake, Ontario. Join Andre Renaud, member of the Strewn wine making team as he explains the principles and nuances of matching chocolate - from bitter sweet to white - to dry red and sweet white Strewn wines. Chocolate maker Richard Kiermacz of Choclates Etc, will be on hand with decadent chocolates for the pairing. Admission is $20.00 /$15 for Barrel Club Members. For information, call Christine Nicholson at 905-468-1229, e-mail nicholson.ca@gmail.com or visit http://www.strewnwinery.com.

The First Annual New York Ice Wine Festival will be held from February 8 to February 27 in Fairport, NY. Ice Wine takes center stage throughout the month, with a variety of events designed to highlight the splendor of NY Ice Wines. Enjoy Ice Wines from New York Wineries including, Casa Larga, Heron Hill, Hunt Country, Johnston Estate Winery, Lamoreaux Landing and Sheldrake Point. From Ice Wine tastings to “meet the winemaker” nights and an extravagant Fiori Dinner, see why Ice Wine is the pride and joy of New York. Admission is Admission ranges from $15 to $85 depending on the event. For information, call Stacy Kurtz at 585-223-4210, e-mail stacy@casalarga.com.

The Rodeo Uncorked! Roundup and Best Bites Competition will be held February 8 at 7:00 p.m. at Reliant Center in Houston, Texas. Sample award-winning wines and enjoy signature bites from Houston-area top chefs. Admission is $100/advance; $125/door; $1800/table of 10. For information, call Lisa Ward at 832-667-1000, e-mail lward214@aol.com or visit http://www.hlsr.com/ag.

Wine, Food, Culture of Calabria and Basilicata will be held February 12 from 6:30 p.m - 9:30 p.m. at Divino Wine Studio in Ottawa, Ontario. Vinum Novum Wine Agency presents a dinner with Nicola Trotta, owner of Terre Borboniche Vini, from Reggio Calabria, Italy. He will present his wines during a multi-course Calabrese meal designed by chef Gino Mastellotto. The dinner will include five wines - four reds and a white. It will also mark the North American unveiling of Nephele' IGT Calabria, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Dinner and talk about many native grape varieties of these undiscovered regions. On the Studio's big screen they'll show photos of these enchanting areas and vineyards overlooking the sea. Admission is $95 + tax and gratuities. For information, call David Mollica at 613-221 9760, e-mail info@vinumnovum.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com.

Valentine’s Day IV will be held February 12 at 6:30pm at Mission Hill Family Estate in West Bank, Okanagan, BC. Join Winery Chef Michael Allemeier as he shares a very special new menu. Admission is $85 per person, plus tax. For information, call Janelle Donn at 250-768-6443, e-mail jdonn@markanthony.com or visit http://www.missionhillwinery.com/guest_experience/CulinaryClasses.html.

Two Great Wineries: Five Vintners & Tamayo Vineyards will be held February 13 6pm to 8:30pm at La Maison Gourmet in Mission Viejo, California. Savor six different wines, paired with delicious cheeses and charcuteries. Top it all off with a magnificent chocolate fondue with fruit. Overlooking scenic Lake Mission Viejo. It’s truly a memorable evening. Reservation is required at 949-916-4810. Admission is $35 person. For information, call Louise Cote at 949-916-4810, e-mail info@lamaisongourmet.net or visit http://www.lamaisongourmet.net.

Now That's Amore! will be held from February 14 to February 15 from 11 am-4 pm at VJB Vineyards and Cellars Tasting Room in Kenwood, Ca. Please join us for a pairing of two of the finest creations on earth – Vino & Pasta. Treat your loved ones to 2005 V’ Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006 Sonoma Valley Primitivo, Rosso Family Blend and our award winning 2005 Mendocino Barbera paired with Owner/Executive Chef Maria Belmonte’s delicious Italian Olive Pesto Pasta! Admission is $20/person; Includes logo glass, wine & food.. For information, call Lindsay Evans at 707-833.2300, e-mail lindsay@vjbcellars.com or visit http://vjbcellars.com.

Lodi Wine & Chocolate Weekend 2009 will be held from February 14 to February 15 from 11am-4pm in Lodi, CA. Lodi wineries will be offering tastes of their delicious Lodi wine paired with various chocolate treats. Enjoy winery activites, including barrel tasting, new releases, wine and food pairings, special events and live music throughout the weekend. Admission is $35 in advance, $45 at door. Proceeds go to Children's Cancer Research. For information, call Sherri Cascaden at 209-365-0621, e-mail sherri@lodiwine.com or visit http://www.lodiwineandchocolate.com.

PALATE will be held from February 16 to February 22 at from 9:00 AM-9:00 PM at Gaffer District in Finger Lakes Wine Country in Corning, NY. Includes several wine/beer education seminars including Pairing Finger Lakes Wine with Finger Lakes Cheese by Shannon Brock, Wine Coordinator at New York Wine & Culinary Center. A winemakers dinner with Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars,and other dinners to be announced, are also on the agenda. Admission is $50 per person. Extra fees for Winemaker Dinners. For information, call Melissa Dobson at 800-813-2958, e-mail melissa.dobson@avantguild.com or visit http://fingerlakespalate.com.

Dinner with the Italian winemaker Nicola Trotta will be held February 18 from 6:30 PM - 10:00 PM at Napo Farm to Table Italian Cuisine at 1542 Bank Street in Ottawa, Ontario. Vinum Novum in collaboration with Napo Farm to Table Italian Cuisine will be matching wines from Southern Italy produced by Terre Borboniche Vini of Calabria to a seven-course pasta tasting menu. Nicola Trotta, director of Terre Borboniche Vini will present Nephele, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot for the first time in North America. The entire menu, including desert, will feature pasta dishes. Admission is $95 plus tax and gratuities. For information, call David Mollica at 613- 523 9595, e-mail info@vinumnovum.com.

Celebrate Passion! A Wine Country Retreat for Loving Couples will be held from February 20 to February 22 at 7:00 pm at Spirit Ridge Resort & Spa in Osoyoos, B.C. . A romantic couples retreat at the luxurious Spirit Ridge Vineyard Resort and Spa. Tour & taste the South Okanagan at Black Hills, Quinta Ferreira, & Road 13 Vineyards; learn the nuances of wine and food pairing and discover how wine ages with a verticle tasting at Burrowing Owl. Rediscover the passion and deepen your relationship in a fun workshop with Life Coach, Beth. Savour a multi-course dinner that highlights the wines of the local winemaker who will be joining you at your table. Admission is $1195. For information, call Beth Garrish at 877-603-7054, e-mail coach@bethgarrish.com or visit http://www.Life-Uncorked.com/Retreat.

Great Wine Value from Argentina will be held February 20 at 6pm to 8:30pm at La Maison Gourmet in Mission Viejo, California. Savor six different highest-quality wines, paired with delicious cheeses and charcuteries. Top it all off with a magnificent chocolate fondue with fruit. Admission is $35 person. For information, call Louise Cote at 949-916-4810, e-mail info@lamaisongourmet.net or visit http://www.lamaisongourmet.net.

Pear it with Riesling will be held February 21 at 11:00 at Cave Spring Cellars in Jordan, On. Inn on the Twenty Chef Kevin Maniaci and Cave Spring wine consultant Brian Kelly will explore the joy of pairing Riesling with artisan foods, enhanced with the flavour of the scrumptious pear. The focus will be on four Rieslings of different styles. Admission is $20.00. For information, call Dee dee Cowan at 905-562-3581, e-mail retail@cavespring.ca or visit http://cavespring.ca/events/events1.shtml.

Winter + Wine Dinner will be held February 21 at 7:00 at DesBarres Manor Inn in Guysborough, Nova Scotia. Award-winning Chef Shaun Zwarun presents a five-course tasting menu incorporating Nova Scotia icewine as part of the Nova Scotia Winter Icewine Festival. Innkeeper Audrey Firth has paired Nova Scotia wine to match each course. Winter wine getaway packages are also available. Admission is $75. For information, call Douglas Anweiler at 902-533-2099, e-mail danweiler@williamsmoorecapital.com or visit http://www.desbarresmanor.com.

Wine One-Oh-Wonderful will be held February 21 from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm at Grano Restaurant, 2035 Yonge St. in Toronto, Ontario. Colleen Rivard, Certified Sommelier and Niagara wine specialist, will lead you through a series of lively tutorials while sampling some Ontario wines. Her experience running a successful wine event planning business (www.homeadvintage.com) combined with her lifestyle in Beamsville - arguably the beating heart of Niagara’s wine scene – ensures an afternoon to learn about all things Niagara, including a few hidden gems, and "do’s & don’ts" at the tasting bar. Admission is $30. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-489 0979, e-mail yvonnken@pathcom.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

Wine & Women will be held February 25 7pm at Willow Park Wines & Spirits in Calgary, Alberta. Join the female team of Trusted Experts as we taste our way through the wines of Europe. Linda Robinson of Pacific Wine & Spirits will tour France’s top vineyards featuring the wines of Taittinger, Pierre Sparr, Joseph Drouhin, Chapoutier and Michel Lynch. March: Spain and May: Italy. Optional suggested reading, Natalie Maclean’s "Red,White and Drunk All Over!"

Admission is $30. For information, call Julie Fitzsimmons at 403-296-1640 ext 248, e-mail julie@willowpark.net or visit http://www.willowparkwines.com/events.htm.

Bubbles & Bordeaux will be held February 27 from 6pm to 8:30pm at La Maison Gourmet in Mission Viejo, California. Savor six different wines, paired with cheeses and charcuteries. Top it all off with a chocolate fondue with fruit. Overlooking Lake Mission Viejo. Admission is $35 person. For information, call Louise Cote at 949-916-4810, e-mail info@lamaisongourmet.net or visit http://www.lamaisongourmet.net.

The Second Annual New York Wine Expo will be held from February 27 to February 28 at Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York, New York. Swirl and sip wines from around the globe, all in one venue. From New World Wines to French or Italian favorites as well as local New York, Oregon and California wines, sample the products of approximately 170 wineries and chat personally with the winemakers and other winery principals. Attendees can also sign up for seminars that are designed for all levels of wine lovers. Pick up tips on serving, pricing and selecting the right vintage. Admission is $75 to $85. For information, call Karen Pineman at 1-800-544-1660, e-mail kpineman@schwartz.com or visit http://www.wine-expos.com/wine/ny.

BC Chapter of the American Marketing Association (BCAMA) Wine & Cheese Event - We're Better Together will be held March 4 from 6:00 - 10:00 pm at Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown in Vancouver, BC. Join the BCAMA for an exceptional evening of wine and cheese. Learn how great wine makes farming (and farmers) sexy; how cheese became king of the hill, and what your inner cheese is really saying about you. It promises to be an entertaining event, with expert pairings of fine artisan cheeses and unique Vinaroon-crafted, earth-friendly wines. Join us, with special guests. Early-bird rate (ends Feb 20): Members: $55, Non-Members: $65, Students: $40. For information, call Bonnie Vockeroth at 604-983-6262, e-mail bvockeroth@png.canwest.com or visit http://www.bcama.com/events/past_events/09-03-04.htm.

Savor Dallas will be held from March 6 to March 7 in Dallas, TX. Savor Dallas is Texas’ international experience of wine, food, spirits and the arts, where fans of wine and food events scheduled in several beautiful and engaging Downtown Dallas locations. Founded in 2004 by Vicki Briley-White and Jim White, the extraordinary weekend celebration is the ultimate tasting experience, showcasing cuisine from more than 50 of the area's top restaurants and ultra-premium wines and spirits - with the opportunity to interact one-on-one with internationally acclaimed experts in exciting venues. Savor Dallas is the place to learn about Chefs’ best ideas on fine food, and the best wine and spirits to complement fine flavors – perfectly accompanied with the beauty of the arts.
Admission is Ranges from $50 to $300. For information, call Jamie Engle at 469-693-6073, e-mail jamie_engle@tx.rr.com or visit http://www.SavorDallas.com.

Wine Auction and Dinner will be held March 7 at 6:00 p.m. reception/bidding begins @ 8:00 p.m. at Methodist Training Center in Houston, Texas. Enjoy champion wines with a seated dinner to begin the evening of bidding for the award-winning wines from the International Wine Competition. Admission is $325.00/ticket; $2,500, $4,000, $7,500/table of 8. For information, call Lisa Ward at 832-667-1000, e-mail lward214@aol.com or visit http://www.hlsr.com/ag.

Blend & Cabernet from California tasting will be held March 13 6:00pm at La Maison Gourmet in Mission Viejo, CA. Please join us on our beautiful terrace overlooking scenic Lake Mission Viejo. Savor six different highest-quality wines, paired with delicious cheeses and charcuteries. Top it all off with a magnificent chocolate fondue with fruit. Reservations are required at (949) 916-4810. Admission is $35 person. For information, call Louise Cote at 949-916-4810, e-mail info@lamaisongourmet.net or visit http://www.lamaisongourmet.net.

All Wines from Sonoma tasting will be held March 20 6:00pm at La Maison Gourmet in Mission Viejo, CA. Please join us on our beautiful terrace overlooking scenic Lake Mission Viejo. Savor six different highest-quality wines, paired with delicious cheeses and charcuteries. Top it all off with a magnificent chocolate fondue with fruit. Reservations are required at (949) 916-4810. Admission is $35 person. For information, call Louise Cote at 949-916-4810, e-mail info@lamaisongourmet.net or visit http://www.lamaisongourmet.net.

Wine & Cheese Show will be held from March 20 to March 22 in Mississauga, Ontario. Selection of foods and wines. It also features cuisine from restaurants, seminars, beers, and forthcoming vintages. Admission is $18. For information, call Amanda Wedgewood at 905-842-6591, e-mail awedgewood@metroland.com or visit http://www.towineandcheeseshow.com.

San Diego International Wine Competition will be held from March 21 to March 22 in San Diego, California. San Diego International Wine Competition is open to all wineries producing wine for commercial sale. Deadline approaches, so enter asap! Admission is $75 per wine entered. Wine And Roses charity event on June 14 benefits the Social Service Auxiliary of San Diego, www.WineAndRoses.net. For information, call Felicia Forbes at 619-246-1964, e-mail sdwinecompetition@yahoo.com or visit http://www.SDIWC.com.

Inside the Wine Seminar Series: Cabernet Sauvignon will be held March 21 11:30 - 12:30 at Strewn Winery in Niagara-on-the-lake, Ontario. The “Inside the Wine” seminar series is a response to requests for in-depth wine tastings. Who better to conduct the tasting and help you discover the subtle nuances and complexities of Niagara’s leading grape varieties than Strewn winemaker Joe Will. March’s varietal is Cabernet Sauvignon – the King of Cabernets - recognized around the world for its appealing flavour, enduring tannins and ability to shine in “big wines”. Cabernet Sauvignon winemaking styles vary from region to region and this tasting seminar will focus on the signature style found in Niagara. Admission is $15.00. For information, call Christine Nicholson at 905-468 -1229, e-mail nicholson.ca@gmail.com or visit http://www.strewnwinery.com.

Food, Fitness and Spa Getaway to Napa Valley will be held from March 22 to March 27 in Napa Valley, California. Join us in Napa Valley for a Culinary Getaway that is focused on food, fitness and spa. During our week, we will cook healthy meals together using the finest in fresh, local and seasonal ingredients. We will focus on light exercise each day, such as a custom exercise class or long walks through the vineyards. We will explore the local shops and markets, taste local olive oils, cheeses and wines. We will also have a massage in a beautiful local spa. Groups are kept small to ensure intimate, personal experiences. Admission is $3000 per person, based on double-occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-518-7107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://www.culinarygetaways.com/getaways/?g=napaFoodFitness.

Wine & Women will be held March 25 at 7 pm at Willow Park Wines & Spirits in Calgary, Alberta. Join the female team of Trusted Experts as we taste our way through the wines of Europe. February - France; March - Spain and May - Italy. Optional suggested reading, Natalie Maclean’s "Red,White and Drunk All Over!" Admission is $30. For information, call Julie Fitzsimmons at 403-296-1640 ext 248, e-mail julie@willowpark.net or visit http://www.willowparkwines.com/events.htm.

The 4th Annual Food and Drink Fest will be held from March 27 to March 29 at Hamilton Convention Centre in Hamilton, Ontario. Come and experience an exciting variety of local and international wines, specialty beers, and culinary sensations created by some of the Hamilton, Halton & Niagara Regions' most popular restaurants, breweries, & wineries. Enjoy terrific live entertainment, fun informative cooking demonstrations all in one great location, and all for a great cause. Admission is $12. Proceeds go to Art Gallery of Hamilton - $1.00 from each admissions will be donated to the Art Gallery of Hamilton. For information, call Stacey Vernon at 905-524-3689, e-mail stacey@beaumondeproductions.com or visit http://www.foodanddrinkfest.com.

Keenan, Frank Family Vineyards and Highlands Wineries wine and cheese tasting will be held March 27 6:00pm at La Maison Gourmet in Mission Viejo, CA. Please join us on our beautiful terrace overlooking scenic Lake Mission Viejo. Savor six different wines, paired with cheeses and charcuteries. Top it all off with a chocolate fondue with fruit. Our tasting evening features a personable wine specialist. Reservations are required at (949) 916-4810. Admission is $35 person. For information, call Louise Cote at 949-916-4810, e-mail info@lamaisongourmet.net or visit http://www.lamaisongourmet.net.

A Touch of Spring demo cooking class and dessert with wine will be held March 30 6:30 - 8:30 pm at DiVino Wine Studio in Ottawa, ON. Chef Heinrich Stubbe of Stubbe Chocolates will be with us in the Studio to demonstrate a delicious chocolate cake made with dark French cocoa powder and liquid chocolate from Tanzania with a Cointreau ganache filling made with chocolate from St. Domingo. The cake is decorated with truffles made with chocolate from Tanzania and drizzled with white chocolate. Chef Stubbe will also show us how to make an individual dessert using acetate, filled with chocolate mousse and decorated with fruit. Admission is $75 + tax. For information, call Antonio Mauriello at 613-221-9760, e-mail info@divinowinestudio.com or visit http://www.divinowinestudio.com/special_events_camps.html.

California Wine Fair will be held April 1 at 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. at The Westin Ottawa, Confederation I Ballroom, 11 Colonel By Drive in Ottawa, Ontario. Join the California Wine Institute for a unique opportunity to sample a wide selection of more than 350 wines from 100 of California's producers. The evening event is in support of the Sommelier Certificate Program at Algonquin College in Ottawa. Admission is $60 per person or $55 per person for wine club members. Proceeds go to In support of the Great Canadian Theatre Company and the Ottawa Chamber Music Society, there will be a silent auction featuring special travel and lifestyle related items. For more information please contact Susan Zorzella, Development Officer, Great Canadian Theatre Company (GCTC) at (613) 236-5192 ext 311 or at devdirector@gctc.ca. For information, call Christina Oreskovich at 905-336-8932 OR 1-800-558-2675, e-mail christina@praxispr.ca or visit http://www.calwine.ca.

California Wine Fair will be held April 06 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. at The Fairmont Royal York Hotel, The Canadian Room 100 Front Street West in Toronto, Ontario. Join The California Wine Institute for a unique opportunity to sample a wide selection of more than 450 premium wines from 130 of California's top producers. Admission is $65 per person or $60 per person for wine club members. Proceeds go to In support of the James Fund - Canada's leading neuroblastoma research initiative, there will be a silent auction featuring special lifestyle related items. For information, call Christina Oreskovich at 905-336-8932 OR 1-800-558-2675, e-mail christina@praxispr.ca or visit http://www.calwine.ca/winefair/winefair09.htm.

It's Thyme to be Savvy will be held April 7 7pm at Local Bar - cafe & wine bar in Ottawa, ON. A delicious evening of food and wine requires the talent and expertise of chefs and sommeliers. Savvy Company has teamed with Thyme and Again Creative Catering to create a series of fun wine and food evenings - with a twist! Although trained in our respective areas, wine and food pairing is a personal choice…your choice, that is. We have set the stage by creating a tasting menu featuring seasonal ingredients to be enjoyed with samplings of white and red wines from around the world. Thyme and Again's chef will prepare the tasting menu and the Savvy sommelier will introduce the wines—then will step aside to let you be the judge, determining the best wine with each dish. In the intimate setting of the wine bar, lively discussions about the matches is encouraged. Admission is $80 (includes grats & taxes). For information, call Debbie Trenholm at 613-SAVVYCO (728-8926), e-mail debbie@savvycompany.ca or visit http://www.savvycompany.ca.

California Wine Fair will be held April 8 at 7 PM at Pier 21 in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Society for American Wines, with the support of the United States Consul General, presents the California Wine Fair 2009. Over 160 wines can be tasted from wineries such as Robert Mondavi, Kenwood, Benringer, Merrvale and Marimar Estate. Admission is 45. Donations to Pier 21, Canada's Immigration Museum, support new exhibits, school programs, the Research Centre and special commemorative events. For information, call Steve Lunn at 902-425-7770, e-mail stevelunn@eastlink.ca or visit http://www.sawhalifax.ca.

The Sixth Annual Wine Fair will be held April 13 at 6:00 pm at U of T Faculty Club, 41 Willcocks St. in Toronto, Ontario. The Ontario Wine Society invites you, your family and friends to participate in our wonderful Sixth Annual Ontario Wine Fair. There will be over 300 Ontario VQA wines to taste from crisp and dry to luscious and sweet. This is a ‘walk around’ cocktail party style event! At this event you can sample the most extensive and varied selection of Ontario VQA wines offered in the GTA. This year, to make it even more interesting, we have invited members of the new iYellow wine club to come socialize with us. Appetizers will be passed throughout the evening and, remember, please share. Since the focus of this event is the wine, if possible, please grab a bite before you attend if you feel that a light snack won’t be enough
Admission is $37. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-921 9798, e-mail yvonnken@pathcom.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com/flyers/Flyer-2009TAnnualWineFair.pdf.

Vin-formation 2 - Wine & Food appreciation advanced 'class' will be held April 15 6pm at Red Wine Room at Novotel Ottawa in Ottawa, ON. Wednesday evenings - April 15 & 22. Jump right into this 'class' - a journey of the world of wine and food. Over two consecetive evenings, you will explore tasting, serving and selecting wines in greater depth with a Savvy sommelier as your guide. The experience includes tasting wines blind, learning the formalities of serving wines, appreciating winemaking techniques and learning food pairing techniques from an executive chef. At the end of these two classes, you will put your greater appreciation of the world of wine, new wine lingo, and class experience into action over a multi-course gourmet dinner at TRIO Restaurant prepared by Executive Chef Scott Lucas. Admission is Savvy Special $149. For information, call Debbie Trenholm at 613-SAVVYCO (728-8926), e-mail debbie@savvycompany.ca or visit http://www.savvycompany.ca.

Savvy Supper Series - featuring Creekside Estate Winery will be held April 16 6:30 pm at TRIO Restaurant @ Novotel Ottawa in Ottawa, ON. The Savvy Supper Series showcases Canadian winemakers and their premium wines. This event is a great experience to meet and mingle with the people who are devoted to making premium Canadian wines. The winemaking duo of Canadian and Australian backgrounds, Rob Power and Craig MacDonald from Creekside Estate Winery located in Jordan Station in the heart of the Niagara wine region. A full range of Creekside wines will be paired with the spring menu of TRIO Restaurant's 'tasting plates' (tapas style) featuring local ingredients. Throughout the evening, Craig and Rob - along with TRIO’s executive chef Scott Lucas and Savvy sommeliers - will visit your table and answer any wine or food questions. Admission is $85 per person Ticket prices include gratuities & taxes. . For information, call Debbie Trenholm at 613-SAVVYCO (728-8926), e-mail debbie@savvycompany.ca or visit http://www.savvycompany.ca.

The COC’s Annual Fine Wine Auction will be held April 16 6:00 p.m. at Crush Wine Bar in Toronto, Ontario. John Gallagher hosts this year’s Fine Wine Auction, which offers bidders a chance to purchase from a wide variety of incredible wines from around the world including a 1989 Château Léoville-Las Cases, 1989 Château Mouton Rothschild, 1995 Château Lafite Rothschild, 2001, 2002, 2003 Harlan The Maiden, and 1996 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Echezeaux. Guests can also bid in a silent auction that offers an assortment of exclusive and exciting items including a trip for two to Quebec City, Niagara winery tours, and dinner packages for some of Toronto’s top restaurants. Admission is $50 per person. Proceeds go to Last year, the COC’s Fine Wine Auction raised over $86,000, and all proceeds are in support of the COC. For information, call Katie Rochefort at 416-306-2356, e-mail katier@coc.ca.

Visions at Villa will be held April 17 at 6:30 pm at Martin & Weyrich Winery's Villa Toscana in Pao Robles, CA. "Visions at Villa" is a new art showcase series where different local artists will have their work on display here for one month. In support of these artists, once a month we will be holding a dinner or cocktail/appetizer party where the food is inspired by his or her artwork. Join us for the Grand Opening on April 17th as we display the work of local photographic artist, Prem Ananda while enjoying art-inspired gourmet appetizers and fine wines. Admission is $25/person, $20/wine club members, Free for Villa Toscana Guests. For information, call Annie Weyrich at 805-238-5600, e-mail annie@martinweyrich.com or visit http://www.martinweyrich.com/events/winery_events.php.

Barossa Rare & Distinguished Wine Auction will be held April 17 in Angaston, South Australia. Part of the 2009 Barossa Vintage Festival. Includes rare Imperial of Penfolds Block 42 and Grange, Rockford Basket Press and Henschke Hill of Grace and a double magnum of Chris Ringland Shiraz. Full catalogue is available on website. Admission is $20 entry includes wine and food. All proceeds to Barossa Vintage Festival, a Barossa community event. For information, call Bill Biscoe at 618-85630663, e-mail wbiscoe@bigpond.net.au or visit http://www.barossavintagefestival.com.au.

Sommelier Course - Level 1 will be held from April 18 to April 19 at Willow Park Wines & Spirits in Calgary, Alberta. Students will receive up-to-date and thorough information about the following: method of viticulture, vinification and local customs for major wines; production methods of wines and spirits; wine service, social skills and legislation; harmony of food and wine; wine tasting skills to enable candidates to recognize typical characteristics of wines and detect basic faults, and characteristics that typify classic wines and wine regions.This course is appropriate for wine professionals and dedicated amateurs.
Admission is $500. For information, call Julie Fitzsimmons at 403-296-1640 ext 248, e-mail julie@willowpark.net or visit http://www.willowparkwines.com/events.htm.

Celebrate Earth Day with Green Valley will be held April 19 11am to 2pm at Iron Horse Vineyards in Sebastopol, CA. Low key, low impact, delicious way to be green. No charge wine tasting and food pairing. Eco art exhibit focusing on re-cycled art. Meet and greet with winegrowers to discuss sustainable, organic and biodynamic farming. Fun loose itinerary to visit five wineries and explore Green Valley Admission is Free. For information, call Joy Sterling at 707-887 1507, e-mail joy@ironhorsevineyards.com.

Bordeaux Wine Tour will be held from April 19 to April 26 in Bordeaux, Aquitaine. Six night, small group, escorted tour of the wine regions around Bordeaux. Tour and taste at wineries in the Medoc, Graves/Pessac Leognan, Monbazillac, Bergerac regions, and others. Admission is from $2466 pp dbl, $2685 single. For information, call Diane O'neil at 406-321-0652, e-mail diane@westwindtours.us or visit http://www.westwindtours.us/wst_page9.html.

Certified Sommelier Course - Level 2 will be held April 20 8:30am - 3:30pm at Willow Park Wines & Spirits in Calgary, Alberta. The Certified Sommelier represents the primary certification for wine and beverage professionals in the hospitality industry. The Court of Master Sommeliers will identify beverage professionals whose knowledge, training, skills and demeanor are eligible for the title “Certified Sommelier.” The Certified Sommelier Exam is comprised of three parts: Written Exam - 25 questions covering the world of wine; Tasting Exam - blind wine tasting of two wines; and a Service Exam - requires the candidate to exhibit sales and service skills and includes either the decanting of a red wine or the safe and correct opening of a Champagne bottle. Upon completion of the three-part exam, the student will receive a certificate and a pin distinguishing them as a Certified Sommelier, certified by the American Court of Master Sommeliers. Admission is $350. For information, call Julie Fitzsimmons at 403-296-1640 ext 248, e-mail julie@willowpark.net or visit http://www.willowparkwines.com/events.htm.

Ontario ‘Somewhereness’ Structured Tasting presented by VINTAGES will be held from April 21 to April 22 at 6:00 p.m. at Artscape Wychwood Barns in Toronto, ON. Join Matt Kramer, author and Wine Spectator columnist, along with six of Ontario’s finest winemakers for a celebration of Ontario’s ‘Somewhereness’ – a term coined by Mr. Kramer to describe the depth and complexity of vineyards, soils and wines. Mr. Kramer will kick off the evening with a keynote address that will provide insights into ‘Somewhereness’. A structured tasting and a meet-and-mingle with winemakers will follow. Guests will also enjoy the wines with foods hand-selected from local farms and prepared by celebrated wine country chefs from Niagara and Prince Edward County. Admission is $99. Proceeds go to Partial proceeds go to the Stop Community Centre. Located in Toronto's Davenport West neighbourhood, The Stop Community Food Centre (The Stop) works to increase people's access to healthy food in a manner that maintains dignity, builds community and challenges inequality. For information, visit http://www.vintages.com/events/events-somewhereness.html.

Ottawa Chamber Music Society Wine Auction will be held April 22 at Christ Church Cathedral, 420 Sparks Street in Ottawa, ON. Chief auctioneer Dennis Saikaley of the LCBO will auction off almost 500 bottles of rare and vintage wine in support of the Ottawa Chamber Music Society. Admittance is $50, which can be applied as a credit towards any wine purchase, and includes a reception. Proceeds go to The Ottawa Chamber Music Society presents chamber music of the highest calibre including the highly acclaimed Ottawa International Chamber Music Festival, one of the largest chamber music festivals in the world, as well as our fall/winter Concert Series, and the Family Music Fair. For information, call Karen St.aubin at 613-234-8008, e-mail kstaubin@chamberfest.com or visit http://chamberfest.com/english/events/wineauction.html.

St. Michaels Food & Wine Festival will be held from April 24 to April 27 at Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum in St. Michaels, MD. The 7th annual festival includes presentations by celebrity guest chefs, wine and spirit tastings, educational wine seminars with notable vintners and authors. Please check website for entire event schedule. Visitors will be able to smell, sip, and taste to their hearts content under 4 pavilion tents. VIP Charity Kick-off Reception and Auction is Thursday evening, April 23. Admission is Varies per Day. Proceeds go to Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, Community Food Bank, Chesapeake Culinary Center For information, call Jon Mason at 443-205.2185, e-mail info@stmichaelsfoodandwinefestival.com or visit http://www.stmichaelsfoodandwinefestival.com.

The 2009 Indiana Wine Fair will be held April 25 at 12:30 - 7:00 p.m. at The Story Inn in Nashville (Story), Indiana. Some 35 Indiana wineries will pour samples (and offer for sale) of their wines. Wines in seven categories will be awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals by a panel of consumer judges. Admission is $20. For information, call Allen dale Olson at 812-988-2273, e-mail olsonallen@msn.com.

Culinary Getaway in Paris will be held from April 27 to May 1 in Paris, France. Join us in Paris, France, as we explore the culinary treasures of this amazing city. We will cook together with accomplished French chefs, explore the markets and gourmet shops, taste cheeses, nut oils, chocolates, olive oils and wines. We will dine in some of the finest restaurants, private settings and local bistros. Groups are kept small to ensure intimate, personal experiences. Admission is $3,000 per person, based on double occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-518-7107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://www.culinarygetaways.com/getaways/paris/?g=parisWeek.

An evening with Maximilian Riedel will be held April 28 at 6:30 at Capitol Event Theater in Toronto, Ontario. Maximilian Riedel will lead a comparative glass tasting hosted by The Wine Establishment and Halpern Enterprises, featuring wines from Antinori, Pascal Jolivet, Silver Oak Cellars, and Bergstrom Vineyards. Tickets include a Riedel tasting set to take home and a $20 gift certificate from The Wine Establishment. Admission is $250 includes taxes, glassware worth $150 and $20 gift certificate. Proceeds go to Toronto General & Western Hospital Foundation. The TGWHF raises funds for research, education and the enhancement of patient care at Toronto General Hospital and Toronto Western Hospital as well as for their respective research arms, Toronto General Research Institute and Toronto Western Research Institute. For information, call Angela Heffernan at 416-861-1331, e-mail aheffernan@thewineestablishment.com or visit http://thewineestablishment.blogspot.com.

Open Mic Night will be held April 30 and then every Thursday evening going forward from 7-10 pm at 107 S. 3rd St in Walla Walla, Washington. Join us at Walla Walla Village Winery every Thursday evening for open mic night hosted by Jesse Campos of Blue Mountain Spanish Sound. Evening events will include local musicians, wine by the glass and discounts on bottle and case purchases. For more info. or booking contact Jesse at 509.876.1499 or the tasting room at 509.525.Wine. We are located at 107 s. 3rd street across from Washington Mutual bank. Admission is Free!. For information, call Joel Clark at 509-525-9463 , e-mail wwtastingroom@yahoo.com or visit http://www.wallawallavillagewinery.com/notes.php.

Pittsburgh Wine Festival will be held April 30 5:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, PA. The featured wines will come from France, Italy, Spain, Argentina, Portugal, Australia, Germany, Chile, New Zealand, as well as California, Pennsylvania and the Pacific Northwest. More than 150 wineries will be represented. Admission is $250 (VIP Tasting) $125 (Grand Tasting). Proceeds go to Innovation and Discovery at UPMC and The University of Pittsburgh. For information, call Samantha Sosniak at 412-281.2681, e-mail ssosniak@elisco.com or visit http://www.pittsburghwinefestival.com.

Hospice du Rhone 2009 will be held from April 30 to May 2 in Paso Robles, California. This unique three-day event is internationally regarded as the most essential gathering of Rhône wine producers and enthusiasts. Expand your knowledge of the Rhône varieties while talking with the winemakers whose passions spur the energy created at this celebration. For information, call Faith Wells at 805-784.9543, e-mail faith@hospicedurhone.org or visit http://www.hospicedurhone.org.

Mission Hill Family Estate Spring Wine Dinner featuring Chef Warren Geraghty will be held May 2 at 6:30 pm at Mission Hill Family Estate in Westbank, British Columbia. Join Guest Chef Warren Geraghty and Winery Chef Michael Allemeier as they host this evening in our Chagall Room. Vancouver’s critically acclaimed restaurant West, has published its first book called – West: The Cookbook! Chef Warren Geraghty cooks a five course dinner with reception. The menu, developed from recipes found in the book, will be paired with Mission Hill’s wines. All guests will receive a receive a copy of West: The Cookbook as part of the evening experience and a book signing will follow the dinner. (Semi formal attire requested.) Admission is $155 per person plus taxes and service charges. For information, call Janelle Donn at 250-768-6483, e-mail jdonn@markanthony.com or visit http://www.missionhillwinery.com.

The 2009 Wine & Herb Festival will be held from May 2 to May 31 from 11 am to 5 pm at 21 Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON. The Wine & Herb Festival is back again for five weekends in May, bringing together the Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada for a casual celebration of great wine and fresh herbs. Spend a weekend touring the 21 Wineries of Niagara-on-the Lake where each stop will feature a different herb-themed food pairing matched to a premium VQA wine selected to highlight the flavour and aroma of the herb. Passes can be used any weekend in May. Admission is $30 (until April 24) $35 (as of April 25). For information, call Chris Alderson at 905-468-1950, e-mail chris@aldersonandco.ca or visit http://wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com/wineandherb.html.

Vin-formation 1 Intro to wine 'class' will be held May 2 10am to 4pm at Red Wine Room @ Novotel Ottawa in Ottawa, ON. Theory and practice are what this class is all about. The primary goal is to explore the contexts of wine by learning basic skills and knowledge that will allow you to taste, serve and select wines with more confidence. During this class, you will acquire hands-on experience in tasting techniques, characteristics and profiles of wine, the importance of glassware, wine service, the many kinds of wine & deciphering the wine list. Admission is Savvy Special $99 when you register by March 31. For information, call Debbie Trenholm at 613-SAVVYCO (728-8926), e-mail debbie@savvycompany.ca or visit http://www.savvycompany.ca.

Craft Wine Fair - St. Catharines will be held May 2 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Fairview Mall LCBO - 311 Geneva Street in St. Catharines, ON. Back by popular demand, this year’s Craft Wine Fair features four of Niagara’s top emerging wineries - Coyote’s Run Estate Winery, Harbour Estates Winery, Kacaba Vineyards and Stonechurch Vineyards. LCBO customers will have the opportunity to sample from a selection of eight premium wines, nosh on perfectly matched food pairings, meet the winemakers and/or winery owners, get their favourite wine bottles signed and watch a cooking demonstration by Marie Mavridia from Port Dalhousie’s Portview Restaurant – all for free! For information, call Nina Hofer at 905-646-1818 or visit http://www.lcbo.com/learn.

Mediteranian Wine Cruise will be held from May 2 to May 15 departing from Rome, Italy. European Wine Cruise aboard Celebrity new "Solstice" starting in Rome for 2 days, and then travelling to Santorini, Mykanos, Athens, overnight in Istanbul, Rhodes, Naples, 2 days at sea, lectures and wine tasting aboard ship, and private tour in Santorini of Winery. Price includes air, cruise, taxes, hotels, private tours in Rome and Santorini, lectures etc. Ocala Orchards will be hosting event and offering endless activities for everyone. Admission is Starting at $4646.00 per person inclusive. For information, call Virginia Patten at 905-391-2008, e-mail vpatten@cruiseshipcenters.com or visit http://www.virginiapattenbrooklin.cruiseshipcenters.ca.

Icon Argentina Tasting will be held May 4 at 7:00 p.m. at Park Hyatt Hotel in Toronto, ON. The Icon Argentina tasting is Toronto’s premier opportunity to experience a tutored tasting of Argentina’s top wines. Savour world-class, collectible wines in this unique comparative line-up. The tasting will showcase 16 best wines by grape variety as judged by an International expert panel. Admission is $90. For information, call Ariel Menniti at 647-338 4105, e-mail amenniti@winesofargentina.com.ar or visit http://dev.salutewinefestival.com/Events.aspx.

Salute Toronto Wine + Food Festival will be held from May 5 to May 9 in Toronto, Ontario. Salute will provide the opportunity to taste a wide range of wines, from ultra premium labels to value brands. Attendees of the festival will enjoy an impressive line-up of tasting events, wine and shopping experiences, educational seminars led by leading wine experts and exclusive menus at Toronto’s top restaurants. For information, visit http://www.salutewinefestival.com.

Kentucky Wine & Vine Fest will be held from May 8 to May 10 in Nicholasville, Kentucky. Official Wine Festival of Kentucky. Grape Growers Barbeque on Thursday; Wine Social, Dinner & Dance on Friday, and outdoor festival on Saturday. Ricado Ullrich of Chile's Vina La Rosa vineyards will be pouring his wines in the International Tent. For information, call Jeff Mcdanald at 859-396-0301, e-mail mcdanald1@insightbb.com or visit http://www.kywineandvine.com.

Craft Wine Fair - Toronto will be held May 9 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at The Kingsway LCBO - 2946 Bloor Street West in Toronto, ON. The Craft Wine Fair features four of Ontario’s top emerging wineries – Bloomfield Estates Winery, Palatine Hills Estate Winery, Stonechurch Vineyards and Angels Gate Winery. LCBO customers will have the opportunity to sample from a selection of eight unique, premium wines, nosh on perfectly matched food pairings, meet the winemakers and/or winery owners, get their favourite wine bottles signed and watch a cooking demonstration by Albert Ponzo of Le Select Bistro. Admission is free. For information, call Kristen Ellison at 416-239-3066, or visit http://www.lcbo.com/learn.

Bordeaux Prestige will be held from May 11 to May 16 in Bordeaux, France. VIP tastings at the greatest chateaux, including all five First Growths, Sauternes, plus chateaux of Pomerol and Saint Emilion. Your tastings will also include “Super Second” growth chateaux, like Comtesse de Lalande and Léoville Las Cases. You’ll meet with cellarmasters and chateau owners, enjoy accommodations and dinners at one of the Médoc’s private castles, Second Growth Chateau Pichon Longueville Baron de Pichon. Admission is $5800. For information, call Pascale Bernasse at 877-261-1500, e-mail info@wine-tours-france.com or visit http://www.wine-tours-france.com/bordeaux.asp.

G'Day Toronto will be held from May 12 to May 16 at various at various in Toronto, ON. Come Walkabout the week of May 12 when Australia Week Canada presents an exciting program of events in Toronto that will showcase Australian sport, culture, food, wine and top Aussie vacations ideas and celebrate the close business links between our two great countries. Admission is please check website. For information, call Morgan Cates at 416-645-8201, e-mail morgan.cates@fleishman.ca or visit http://www.australia.com/promotions/gday_toronto_ca.aspx?ta_cid=redirect:ca:gdaytoronto.

A Taste of Australia - Experience the Difference will be held May 12 6.30 pm to 9.00 pm at The Grand Banking Hall, One King Street West in Toronto, Ontario. Celebrate your evening in Australian-style and have a chance to win 2 return air tickets to Australia! Come walkabout and tantalize your palates and stimulate your taste buds with some of Australia's superb wines, gourmet meats, foods and cosmetics! Admission is $C44. Proceeds go to partial proceeds from silent auction to Toronto Daily Bread Food Bank For information, call Marie Ross at 416-323-9472, e-mail marie.ross@austrade.gov.au or visit http://www.australiantrade.ca/en/page.ch2?uid=DiscoverAustralia2009.

The Ontario Wine Society's Lailey Vineyard Double Header will be held May 12 at 6:00 pm at U of T Faculty Club, 41 Willcocks St. in Toronto, Ontario. Futures have already been sold for the 2007 Ontario vintage. Described as the “vintage of the century” and “the best ever for Niagara reds”, it behooves the OWS to make wines from this vintage available to taste and purchase. To this end, Lailey Vineyard will include an opportunity to buy the wines we taste. After discussions with winemaker Derek Barnett, Lailey agreed to age the same wine, their 2007 Syrah, in three different kinds of oak barrels, using an American oak barrel for the first time. This is also the first known time any consumer will have the opportunity to “blind” taste a wine which has been aged in three different types of oak barrels. Admission is $37 members, $47 non-members. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-921 9798, e-mail yvonnken@pathcom.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

Wolf Blass Bottle Signing will be held May 14 from 11:00 am to 12:15 pm at the First Canadian Place LCBO in Toronto, Ontario. Join us at the Community Corner (located across from the LCBO) in First Canadian Place. Wolf Blass is touring Canada to celebrate his 75th birthday: Come have your favourite bottles of Wolf Blass wines signed. Admission is free. For information, call Jaime Moore at 416-733-5078, e-mail jaime.moore@am.fostersgroup.com or visit http://http://www.wolfblass.com.au.

ACWC Passport to Canada will be held May 14 7:00pm to 9:30pm at Caboto Club, Parent Ave in Windsor, Ontario. The All Canadian Wine Championships has donated 750 individual wines from the spring judging to Windsor Regional Hospital for a fundraising event. Ticket holders will be able to taste Canadian wines from coast to coast, accompanied by fine Canadian artisanal cheeses. Admission is $30.00, or $25 for 8 or more. Proceeds go to The Cornerstone of Caring, Western Campus Redevelopment Project Facility dedicated to mental health rehabilitation and care. For information, call Bev Carnahan at 519-985-2656, e-mail bcarnahan@mdirect.net or visit http://www.wrh.on.ca or www.canadianwinetrail.com.

ZinFest Wine Festival will be held from May 15 to May 17 in Lodi, CA. Join us at the Friday night Vintner's Grille at Lodi Lake with local winegrowers featuring the Top 12 Zins of Lodi paired delicious cuisine. The Grand Tasting is held on Saturday with 50 Lodi wineries, a Cooking School, the Wine Education Tent, live music, regional restaurants, artisen crafters and much more. Peak behind the cellar doors of our wineries on Sunday for special events, seminars, and barrel tasting. Admission is dinner $75; festival $35 in advance or $45 at the gate. Proceeds go to Local charities - Lodi High School Band, Speech & Debate Team, Cheer & Drill Team, Rotary, Polio Plus For information, call Anna Goehring at 209-367-4727, e-mail anna@lodiwine.com or visit http://www.zinfest.com.

Riesling Week 2009 will be held from May 18 to May 24 at Restaurant or retailer hours at Various restaurants and retailers in New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Las Vegas and Miami, NY, CA, IL, NV, FL. Achtung, baby! Riesling Week 2009 is coming to New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Las Vegas and Miami from May 18 - 24. During Riesling Week, you'll have a chance to sample different styles of German, Austrian and Alsatian Rieslings at your favorite restaurants and retailers. Check out the Web site for for locations and more! Admission is Free. For information, call Emerich Gutter at 212-994-7576, e-mail emerich.gutter@rfbinder.com or visit http://www.destinationriesling.com/events/riesling-week-2009.html.

New Zealand Wine Fair 2009 will be held May 19 7pm-9:30pm at Marche Bonsecours in Montreal, Quebec. Discover the fabulous array of over 180 New Zealand wines from more than 40 wineries and enjoy your wine experience with a sampling of fine food and cheeses from Agnus Dei. Admission is $60.00. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Societe pour les enfants handicapes du Quebec. For information, call Anik Gaumond at 888-993-9927, e-mail anik.gaumond@ketchin.com or visit http://www.nzwine-events.ca.

New Zealand Wine Fair 2009 will be held May 21 7pm-9:30pm at Design Exchange in Toronto, Ontario. Discover the fabulous array of over 190 New Zealand wines from 46 wineries and enjoy your wine experience with a sampling of fine food and cheeses from Daniel et Daniel. Admission is $60.00. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Friends of We Care For information, call Anik Gaumond at 888-993-9927, e-mail anik.gaumond@ketchin.com or visit http://www.nzwine-events.ca.

Craft Wine Fair - Burlington will be held May 23 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Millcroft Centre LCBO - 2000 Appleby Line in Burlington, ON. The Craft Wine Fair features four of Ontario’s top emerging wineries – Stonechurch Vineyards, Coyote’s Run Estate Winery, Ridgepoint Wines and Kacaba Vineyards. LCBO customers will have the opportunity to sample from a selection of eight unique, premium wines, nosh on perfectly matched food pairings, meet the winemakers and/or winery owners, get their favourite wine bottles signed and watch a cooking demonstration by Michael Stauffer of The Culinary Office. Admission is free. For information, call Valerie Durham at 905-336-6200 or visit http://www.lcbo.com/learn.

Austin Wine Festival will be held from May 23 to May 25 at 1 p.m. - 10 p.m. 5/23; 1 p.m - 8 p.m 5/24; 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. 5/25 at The Domain in Austin, TX. The 2009 Austin Wine Festival.A uniquely Austin 3-day Texas wine celebration. Wineries from Lampasas to New Braunfels and Fredericksburg to Dripping Springs have bloomed from a pioneering few, into an internationally awarded and recognized wine region. For three days, thirty-four Texas wineries, 50 food and craft vendors, a 6 guest chefs will be showing their best. AWF is also first of its kind in Texas to offer the opportunity to purchase bottles of the wines you like best on the spot – something that only happens in Texas at the AWF! Designated as the #2 Fastest Growing Wine Destination in the Nation, second only to Napa (Orbitz Insider Index) and the #1 of the best "Places to Go This Summer" (The New York Times), the Austin Wine Festival (AWF) is the place to be and be seen. Admission is $20 for 1 day ticket/$55 for 3 day ticket. Proceeds go to Austin Farmer's Market -The Austin Farmers’ Market is a project of Sustainable Food Center (SFC), a local 501 (c)(3) non-profit that creates opportunities for individuals to make healthy food choices and to participate in a vibrant, local food system. http://www.austinfarmersmarket.org For information, call Sabrina Houser at 866-621-9463, e-mail sabrinahouser@drycomalcreek.com or visit http://www.austinwinefestival.com/index.html.

Critics Challenge International Wine Competition will be held from May 23 to May 24 in San Diego, California. Critics Challenge is open to all wineries producing wine for commercial sale. Entry deadline one month before event. Admission is $80 per wine entered. For information, call Felicia Forbes at 619-246-1964, e-mail critics_challenge@yahoo.com or visit http://www.CriticsChallenge.com.

Wilson Winery Fiesta will be held May 23 12.00 - 4.00 p.m. at Wilson Winery in Healdsburg, Sonoma County, Ca. Wilson Winery will host our eighth-annual fundraiser to benefit the Children of Vineyard Workers Scholarship Fund. There will be award-winning wines, amazing food, an exciting silent auction and raffle, all while you are enjoying our beautiful view and listening to live music. What better way to spend the afternoon. Admission is $30. Benefits children of vineyard workers in Sonoma County For information, call Dee Ahlin at 707-4334355, e-mail dee@wilsonwinery.com or visit http://www.wilsonwinery.com.

The Ontario Wine Society's Sparkling Spring Evening, Oakville will be held May 24 6:00 pm at Seasons Restaurant in Oakville, Ontario. This is a sampling of Ontario’s finest bubblies in celebration of the Society’s first Oakville event. Fittingly, Donald Ziraldo, one of the people responsible for creating the Ontario Wine Society in 1991, will be leading the tasting. Donald is one of the founders of Inniskillin and is both an Order of Ontario and an Order of Canada recipient. For the reception wines, Jim Warren, Stoney Ridge founder and president of the Ontario Viniculture Association, and Martin Charrois of Stoney Ridge will be on hand to serve two of Stoney Ridge’s new releases, their 2008 Riesling and 2008 Gewurztraminer. Seasons will be serving appetizers to accompany the sparkling wines. Admission is $42. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-921 9798, e-mail yvonnken@pathcom.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

New Zealand Wine Fair 2009 will be held May 26 7pm-9:30pm at Hotel Arts in Calgary, Alberta. Discover the fabulous array of over 130 New Zealand wines from more than 30 wineries and enjoy your wine experience with a sampling of fine food and cheeses. Admission is $55.00. For information, call Anik Gaumond at 888-993-9927, e-mail anik.gaumond@ketchin.com or visit http://www.nzwine-events.ca.

Wine & Women will be held May 27 7pm at Willow Park Wines & Spirits in Calgary, Alberta. Join the female team of Trusted Experts as we taste our way through the wines of Europe. February - France; March - Spain and May - Italy. Optional suggested reading, Natalie Maclean’s "Red,White and Drunk All Over!" Admission is $30. For information, call Julie Fitzsimmons at 403-296-1640 ext 248, e-mail julie@willowpark.net or visit http://www.willowparkwines.com/events.htm.

Phantom Rivers Wine Tasting will be held May 30 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm at Central Coast Wine Services - 2717 Aviation Way in Santa Maria, CA. Tasting of Phantom Rivers Wine and Pick Up Party for Wine Club Members. Sample the wine, meet the winemaker and all the rest of us. Music, snacks and on premises sales. Admission is Free. For information, call Steve Mathis at 877-742-6748, e-mail smathis@phantomrivers.com or visit http://www.phantomrivers.com.

The 3rd annual Ontario Consumers Riesling Challenge will be held May 30 from 11:30 am to 4 pm at LCBO 495 615 Scottsdale Drive in Guelph, Ontario. This is another great way to introduce Ontario Riesling to our customers. Patrons to come in, do a walk-about and taste more than 10 of Ontario's finest Riesling producers that are available at the LCBO.
Monies raised will be going to the MASAICentre.ca now braceletofhope.ca. Includes local cheeses, local breads, a selection of decadently topped apples, local eatery participation, and local coffee all have be arranged. Admission is $10 a ticket for 4 educational pours. For information, call Orest Poluch at 519-823-5080, e-mail orest.poluch@lcbo.com.

Field to the Fork will be held May 31 from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Leonesse Cellars 38311 De Portola Road in Temecula, CA. Join us for a taste of Southern California Wine Country and indulge yourself in food and wine from some of the area's finest chefs and winemakers. Admission is $45. Proceeds go to Slow Food Temecula Valley. This group is devoted to the promotion of local, fresh and affordable food for all! For information, call Regina Marston at 951-302-7601, e-mail regina@ideationunlimited.com or visit http://www.temeculavalleyslowfood.org.

Italian Wine Tasting Tour (Brunello, Amarone, etc.) will be held June 5 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm at La Maison Gourmet in Mission Viejo, CA. Please join us on our beautiful terrace overlooking scenic Lake Mission Viejo. Savor six different highest-quality wines, paired with delicious cheeses and charcuteries. Top it all off with a magnificent chocolate fondue with fruit. Admission is $35 person. For information, call Louise Cote at 949-916-4810, e-mail info@lamaisongourmet.net or visit http://www.lamaisongourmet.net.

Craft Wine Fair - Guelph will be held June 6 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Scottsdale Drive LCBO - 615 Scottsdale Drive in Guelph, ON. The Craft Wine Fair features four of Ontario’s top emerging wineries – Ridgepoint Wines, Oak Heights Estate Winery, Palatine Hills Estate Winery and Harbour Estates Winery. LCBO customers will have the opportunity to sample from a selection of eight unique, premium wines, nosh on perfectly matched food pairings prepared by Appetizingly Yours Events, meet the winemakers and/or winery owners and get their favourite wine bottles signed – all for free! For information, call Greg Watson or Michael Laforge at 519-823-5080, or visit http://www.lcbo.com/learn.

Importing Wine For Pleasure & Profit Seminar will be held June 6 from 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM at The Old Mill Inn & Spa in Toronto, Ontario . A one-day seminar that outlines how to import wines for your own cellar or as a business. C. Steven Trenholme, who has over 30 years of experience in the beverage alcohol industry leads the discussion. The seminar, written material,lunch and 30 days post seminar email consulting is provided. Admission is $295. For information, call C. steven Trenholme at 416-883-3580, e-mail cstrenholme@sympatico.ca.

Balloon & Wine Festival will be held from June 6 to June 8 in Winchester, CA. Includes Wine tasting from over 20 wineries, over 50 hot air balloons in dawn mass ascensions and a dozen in evening balloon glows, major concerts featuring top country on Friday, Rock/Classic Rock on Saturday, and Jazz and top 40 on Sunday. Sunday also features a free-style super moto cross show. Food and Wine Pairing event on Saturday and Sunday. Kids Faire features activities for children. Commercial and food booths for shopping. For information, call Colleen Huber at 951--676-4713, e-mail adworks2@aol.com or visit http://www.tvbwf.com.

A Celebration of Wine will be held June 7 from 3-6 PM at Rancho Vista del Rio (Borba Family Ranch) in Madera, California. Taste wines from approximately 100 west coast wineries while sampling house specialties from some 40 restaurants. As the major annual fundraiser for CSU Fresno's Viticulture & Enology Department, this 27-year-old event also features Central California's largest and most prestigious Silent Wine Auction. End your day of winetasting while dancing to live music from the Joe Lenigan Band provided during the Coffee & Dessert Hour from 5:30 to dusk. Admission is $70. Proceeds go to CSU Fresno Viticulture & Enology Department: to its students and to build the on-campus Vincent E Petrucci Library located at the Viticulture & Enology Research Center (VERC)and now continue to support it through staffing, computers, publications and other expenses. For information, call Jan Boling at 559-244-5741, e-mail jan@acelebrationofwine.com or visit http://www.acelebrationofwine.com.

Southern Foods Getaway in Napa Valley will be held from June 12 to June 14 in Yountville, California. Sherry Page grew up on a farm in rural Georgia. Join her for a weekend in Napa Valley that focuses on Southern cooking. We will cook together in a beautiful winery setting, taste regional wines, and use the finest in local, seasonal ingredients. Our recipes will include slow roasted pork, fried chicken, creamed corn, collard greens, buttermilk biscuits, sweet potato hash and bourbon-laced shrimp over grits. Admission is US$1200 per person for double occupancy, US$1500 for single occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-5187107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://www.culinarygetaways.com/getaways/?g=napaSouthernWeekend.

Wine Tasting: Blends & Cabernets from California will be held June 12 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm at La Maison Gourmet in Mission Viejo, CA. Please join us on our beautiful terrace overlooking scenic Lake Mission Viejo. Savor six different highest-quality wines, paired with delicious cheeses and charcuteries. Top it all off with a magnificent chocolate fondue with fruit. Admission is $35 person. For information, call Louise Cote at 949-916-4810, e-mail info@lamaisongourmet.net or visit http://www.lamaisongourmet.net/.

Visions at Villa, an Art Showcase will be held June 13 6:30 pm at 4230 Buena Vista Drive in Paso Robles, CA. Please Join us at Martin & Weyrich’s Villa Toscana on Saturday, June 13th at 6:30 pm as we Showcase the Work of Local Abstract Artist Adrienne Allebe. Come Enjoy an Evening of Fine Art, Gourmet Cuisine, Martin & Weyrich and York Mountain Wines and Live Entertainment by The Unfiltered Jazz Trio!
Admission is $50 per person, $40 for wine club members and Villa Toscana Guests. For information, call Annie Weyrich at 805-238-5600, e-mail annie@martinweyrich.com or visit http://www.martinweyrich.com/events/winery_events.php.

The Ontario Wine Society's Annual Bus Trip - Niagara-on-the-Lake will be held from June 13 to June 14 from 7:45 am to 6:30pm in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. With the recent trend of wineries in the Niagara region not only focusing on the quality of their wines, but on the architectural quality of the wineries themselves, the Ontario Wine Society felt that it was time to visit three wineries where major architectural firms helped develop the site. The input of an international team of experts, winemakers, Brock University professors, architects and vineyard managers assisted in the design each winery. Learn how terms like LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environment Design) from the Canadian Building Council or principals of environmental sustainability and biodynamic farming apply to these wineries when explained by on-site experts. In addition to the tours, the wineries have each been asked to present their best available 2007 wines for tasting. Admission is $ 85 each - member and one guest, $95 each - addition guests and non-members. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-921 9798, e-mail yvonnken@pathcom.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

Vintages presents Wine 101 will be held June 16 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Bellvue Manor, 8083 Jane Street in Vaughan, ON. VINTAGES WINE 101 is an interactive evening to help you unravel the mysteries of the wine world in a fun environment. It’s everything you wanted to know about wine, but were afraid to ask – and it’s easier than you think! Sample over 30 wines from around the world; learn how to read a wine label; understand the dos and don’ts of ordering wine in a restaurant and learn food and wine matching tips from a restaurateur. Admission is $55. Participate in an on-site silent auction with proceeds in support of Down Syndrome Association of York Region. www.dsayr.on.ca For information, call Trina Hendry at 416-365-5767, e-mail trina.hendry@lcbo.com or visit http://www.vintages.com/events/wine101_event.html.

Savvy Supper Series - featuring Peninsula Ridge Winery will be held June 18 6:30 pm at TRIO Restaurant @ Novotel Ottawa in Ottawa, ON. The Savvy Supper Series showcases Canadian winemakers and their premium wines. This event is a great experience to meet and mingle with the people who are devoted to making premium Canadian wines. Meet wine industry pioneer Jean-Pierre Colas, who left Chablis, France to develop impressive wines at Peninsula Ridge Winery in Grimsby located in Niagara wine region. A full range of Peninsula Ridge wines will be paired with the summer menu of TRIO Restaurant's 'tasting plates' (tapas style) featuring local ingredients. Throughout the evening, Jean-Pierre - along with TRIO’s executive chef Scott Lucas and Savvy sommeliers - will visit your table and answer any wine or food questions. Admission is $80 (includes grats & taxes). For information, call Debbie Trenholm at 613-SAVVYCO (728-8926), e-mail debbie@savvycompany.ca or visit http://www.savvycompany.ca.

Zola Wine & Kitchen Hosts Exclusive Wine Dinner with Wine Guru Terry Theise will be held June 19 at 6:30-8:30 PM at Zola Wine & Kitchen in Washington, DC. Zola Wine & Kitchen, the exclusive wine shop and chef’s test kitchen situated in the heart of Penn Quarter, extends an opportunity to wine and dine with Wine & Spirits Professional Terry Theise of Terry Theise Estate Selections in Silver Spring, MD. This one of a kind dinner, created by Executive Chef Bryan Moscatello, is priced at $115 per person, exclusive of tax and gratuity, and will consist of creative trio preparations of scallops, rabbit and veal each paired the Austrian and Champagne estate selections including Minges Gleisweiler Holle Riesling, Spatlese 2005, Schrock Furmint 2007, Pierre Gimonnet Champagne, NV Blanc de Blancs Cuis, NV and the Hexamer Riesling, “Quartzit” 2006. Admission is $115 per person. For information, call Elizabeth Presson at 202-654-2855, e-mail elizabeth@heatherfreeman.com or visit http://zolawinekitchen.com/zwk/wine_calendar.

Wines from Mendocino with Alex MacGregor, winemaker will be held June 19 from 6:00 to 9:00 pm at La Maison Gourmet in Mission Viejo, CA. Please join us on our beautiful terrace overlooking scenic Lake Mission Viejo. Savor six different wines, paired with delicious cheeses and charcuteries. Top it all off with a magnificent chocolate fondue with fruit. Reservations are required at (949) 916-4810. Admission is $35 person. For information, call Louise Cote at 949-916-4810, e-mail info@lamaisongourmet.net or visit http://www.lamaisongourmet.net.

Swirl, Sip and Shop - Summer Wine Release will be held from June 20 to June 21 from 10 am to 5:30 pm at Strewn Winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON. Be the first to taste new premium whites from the 2008 vintage and Terroir whites from the outstanding 2007 vintage! Discover Strewn Sauvignon Blanc 2008, Pinot Blanc 2008, Gewurztraminer 2008, Riesling 2007 Terroir, Chardonnay French Oak 2007 Terroir and Chardonnay Amalgam 2007 Terroir – plus a bonus, our dry Cabernet Rose 2008. Then stock up for the summer or future occasions! Complimentary tastings on new release wines. Admission is Complimentary. For information, call Christine Nicholson at 905-468 1229, e-mail nicholson.ca@gmail.com.

iYellow Wine Club's - THE BENCH TOUR will be held June 27 9:15am - 6:30pm at p/u & drop/off - 228 Queens Quay West - To WINE COUNTRY in Toronto, Ontario. Exploring the wines of Beamsville Bench & Vineland
Kick off summer 09 with a one-of-a-kind, ALL INCLUSIVE VIP wine tour! This unique tour will be exploring two of Ontario’s most renowned and
beautiful wine regions: Niagara's Beamsville Bench and Vineland. This tour includes return transportation from downtown Toronto, lunch, snacks, tours and tastings at all wineries,
expert wine hosts (Ange & Pax), giveaways, and more! Admission is $150 (per person) or $280 (per couple). For information, call Angela Aiello at 647-519.2643, e-mail info@iyellowwineclub.com or visit http://www.iyellowwineclub.com/2009/05/graze-bench-wine-tour-saturday-june.html.

Pinot Days Grand Festival Tasting will be held June 28 1 pm-5pm at Fort Mason in San Francisco, CA. Pinot Days Grand Festival Tasting showcases 200 producers of pinot noir from every region in California, Oregon, New Zealand, and Burgundy. Meet the Winemakers, enjoy their wines and sample a variety of artisan cheeses & specialty foods. Admission is $50. Pinot Days hosts a wine auction during the Grand Festival. Proceeds benefit Ethiopia’s HIV Victim Food Relief Effort. For information, call Monica Granados at 415-246-2967, e-mail monica_granados@yahoo.com or visit http://www.pinotdays.com.

Mission Hill Family Estate Essentials of Grilling & Barbecue will be held June 28 11:00 am at Mission Hill Family Estate in West Kelowna, British Columbia. Join Winery Chef Michael Allemeier for this in-depth session in celebration of our rich and varied Canadian heritage as he covers the cultural mosaic of outdoor cooking. Chef Allemeier incorporates aspects of his own South African roots as well as elements from the southern United States and the Mediterranean. He will cover tools and equipment, rubs, sauces and marinades, and techniques for quick and easy grilling and slow cooking. The class will be held in our vineyard under a Marquee tent so that you can comfortably enjoy Chef’s demonstration and the view. Admission is $130 including taxes. For information, call Ingrid Dilschneider at 250-768-7611, e-mail idilschneider@missionhillwinery.com or visit http://www.missionhillwinery.com.

A Summer in the Vaucluse Vineyard will be held from July 1 to September 30 in 30 villages of Vaucluse (near Avignon), France. Take a wine tour in wine cooperative cellars of Vaucluse which invite you to discover vineyards and villages in Côtes du Rhône, Côtes du Luberon and Côtes du Ventoux, and famous Châteauneuf du Pape, Gigondas, Vacqueyras, and Beaumes de Venise. For information, call Diane Caillard at 00 33 -(0)4 90 84 08 28 , e-mail diane.caillard@wanadoo.fr or visit http://www.vigneronscooperateurs-84.fr.

Chateau des Charmes Farm to Table Series will be held from July 5 to September 20 from 4:30pm to 6:30pm at Chateau des Charmes in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Each experience will feature a vineyard walk with Michèle Bosc and discussions with a local food purveyor, culminating in a delectable tasting created by a featured chef and paired with a Château des Charmes wine. Sunday, July 5th - Chefs Anna and Michael Olson. Sunday, July 19th - Chef Eric Peacock. Sunday, August 23rd - Chef Mark Picone Admission is $50 pp for each date. For information, call Michele Bosc at 905-2624219 ext.26, e-mail michele@chateaudescharmes.com.

California's Grape & Gourmet will be held from July 9 at 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM at Sacramento Convention Center in Sacramento, California. Unlimited Wine & Food Tasting Included with Admission. Proceeds Benefit: Friends of the California State Fair. In 2008, the Friends of the California State Fair scholarship program awarded $29,500 to California’s youth. For information, call Genene Chacon at 916-263.3636, e-mail gchacon@calexpo.com or visit http://www.thebestcaliforniawine.com.

Chateau des Charmes Wine Country Lunch & Smooth Jazz Concert will be held from July 12 to August 16 at Chateau des Charmes in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Delight all of your senses while sharing award-winning Canadian smooth jazz and a superb Wine Country casual lunch complemented by our wines. Bask in the taste and sound of summer on our Vineyard Courtyard while supporting the St. Catharines General Hospital Foundation. Sunday, July 12th - Matt Dusk with Chef Stephen Treadwell. Sunday, August 16th - North of Soul with Chef Eric Peacock. Admission is $80pp, single concert, lunch, glass of wine. Proceeds go to St. Catharines General Foundation For information, call Michele Bosc at 905-3233863, e-mail michele@chateaudescharmes.com or visit http://www.scghfoundation.com.

Four-day culinary vacation will be held from July 12 to July 16 at The Waring House Inn in Picton, Ontario. Visit farm markets, wineries, a craft brewery, cheese producers, cook 'ti your heart's content using the freshest local ingredients, and even take home some souvenir preserves. Includes four night's accommodation (double occupancy), all meals, three hands-on cookery classes, Waring House apron, tours to wineries, brewery, cheese producers, meet-and-greet-on Sunday. Other dates: August 9-13, September 13-17. Admission is From $995 pp + taxes. For information, call Ginny Merritt at 613-476-7492, e-mail cookery@waringhouse.com or visit http://www.waringhouse.com/packages.shtml.

Taste: Victoria's Festival of Food and Wine will be held from July 16 to July 19 at Crystal Garden and surrounding area in Victoria, British Columbia. Victoria's first annual festival of cuisine and wine will offer a local taste of Vancouver Island, the wine regions of British Columbia and beyond; July 16-19, 2009. Participate in tastings, seminars, and experience taste through outings to regional farms, a cidery and even a local seafood company. Learn and connect directly with the farmers, vintners, chefs and cheese-makers who celebrate the terroir of BC through their produce, wine, food and more. Admission is $10 and up. Proceeds go to Partial proceeds of Taste will go to Woodwyn Farm, a rehabiliations centre that will encompass food, nourishment, and recovery. For information, call Kathy Mcaree at 250-3851527, e-mail kathymcaree@shaw.ca or visit http://www.VictoriaTaste.com.

Freemark Abbey Winemaker Dinner will be held July 16 7 PM at Zola Wine & Kitchen in Washington, DC, Washington, DC. Please contact Denielle Vendetti at 202.654.2855, or dvendetti@zoladc.com, for more information or secure your reservation.

Music Niagara 2009 Music and Wine at Peller Estates Winery, Inniskillin Winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Wine lovers can delight their senses in Niagara-on-the-Lake this summer, at Music Niagara’s special series featuring music and wine. Set the stage for your perfect Saturday at one of our three Music and Wine concerts on July 25, August 1, and August 8, 11:30 a.m. at beautiful Peller Estates Winery. Let the beauty of Haydn's string quartets and the magic sounds of Mozart entrance you as you sip an aperitif while overlooking Peller Estates’ magnificent vineyards. On July 25 we are pleased to welcome guest performers from the world-renowned St. Petersburg String Quartet. Tickets are $15. For information, call Music Niagara at 905-468-5566, e-mail concerts@musicniagara.org or visit http://2009.niagaramusicfest.com/festivalprogramme.jsp.

Beautiful wines of British Columbia will be held July 22 7pm at TRIO Restaurant in Ottawa, ON. Savvy Company is excited to host a first-of-its-kind wine tasting featuring wines from British Columbia - rarely available in Ontario. Join Savvy Sommelier Susan Desjardins – who spends a lot of her time touring Okanagan wineries – to hear the inside scoop on BC wines. Sip & savour wines from Quail’s Gate Winery, Sandhill Estates, Sumac Ridge, Inniskillin Okanagan Winery and Mission Hill Winery. Taste why BC wines rarely escape their home province! We will enjoy this summer evening outdoors on one of Ottawa’s best patios (and little known) at TRIO Restaurant in the Novotel Ottawa. Light hors d’oeuvres and cheeses will be served. Admission is $50 includes taxes OR 2 tickets, dinner & 2 glasses of wine for $145 incl grats & taxes. For information, call Debbie Trenholm at 613-728-8926, e-mail debbie@savvycompany.ca.

Crested Butte Land Trust Wine & Food Festival will be held from July 23 to July 26 in Crested Butte, Colorado. Grand Tasting and Evening on Elk Ave. events with more than 500 wines from around the world. Chef dinners with Frank Bonanno and Kent Rathbun. Winemaker Trails: mountain bike rides and gourmet picnics with California winemakers. Admission is $35 - 500 per event. Proceeds go to Crested Butte Land Trust - protects unrivaled views, provides trails, and preserves wildlife habitat. For information, call Margaret Ebeling at 303-809-0404, e-mail margaret@larimersquare.com or visit http://www.crestedbuttewine.com.

That's Amore with WinewomenPSP will be held July 24 6 - 9 PM at Amore Ristorante Italiano in La Quinta, California. Join WinewomenPSP for summer love at Amore Ristorante Italiano. Proceeds from our wine dinner support the Stroke Recovery Center. Five-course dinner features calamari, pancetta-tossed warm spinach salad, mozzarella caprese, Tuscan rigatoni, chicken marsala and dessert trio. Wine pairings include Sandholt Pinot Grigio, Godwin Chardonnay, Mettler Cabernet Sauvignon and Mendelson Muscat Canelli. Come out and feel the love! Admission is $65 members; $75 non-members, guests. Proceeds go to Stroke Recovery Center: Day facility provides free rehabilitative and recreational services for clients in the aftermath of stroke to recover and resocialize. For information, call Matilde Parente at 760-799.7076, e-mail nz10ob-winegal@yahoo.com or visit http://www.winewomenpsp.com.

Creekside Winemaker's Dinner Series will be held July 25 at Creekside Estate Winery in Jordan, Ontario. Chef J. Mark Hand, the man behind the very popular weekend lunch menu at Creekside, makes an evening appearance on our newly renovated deck and is joined by winemaker Craig McDonald for a five course gastronomic experience. Begin with a winemaker tour of the winery and tasting in our Underground Barrel Cellar. After the tour, relax during sunset in the casual atmosphere of The Deck as Mark and Craig take you through the best in local fare matched with Creekside’s most acclaimed wines. Admission is $80. For information, call Erin Harvey at 905-562-0035 x 232, e-mail websales@creeksidewine.com.

Chefs Cook-off at Midsummer HerbFest will be held July 26 11am to 4 pm at The Herb Garden in Almonte (outside of Ottawa), ON. Join Sommeliers and Chefs a for a fun day in the countryside! Under a big top tent, three local Ottawa chefs from Whalesbone Catering, Petit Bill's Bistro and Ballygiblin's Restaurant will demonstrate how they use fresh herbs in their recipe. A group of audience participants will be on hand to judge the demonstration, but more importantly the delicious dishes. Debbie Trenholm from Savvy Company will host & provide wine and food pairing tips and will match each dish with a Ontario wine. Admission is $4 at the door. Proceeds go to Benefits the Ottawa Valley Herb Association For information, call Debbie Trenholm at 613-256-0228, e-mail debbie@savvycompany.ca.

Blends & Cabs will be held from July 31 to July 31 at 6:00pm at La Maison Gourmet in Mission Viejo, CA. Please join us on our beautiful terrace overlooking scenic Lake Mission Viejo. Savor six different highest-quality wines, paired with delicious cheeses and charcuteries. Top it all off with a magnificent chocolate fondue with fruit.

Of course, as you’ve come to expect, our tasting evening features a personable wine specialist who informs and entertains with his love and knowledge of the fruit of the vine. It’s truly a memorable evening. Reservations are required at (949) 916-4810.
Admission is $35/pers. For information, call Louise Cote at 949-916-4810, e-mail info@lamaisongourmet.net or visit http://www.lamaisongourmet.net/calendar?id=BEUV37Ea&mv_pc=8.

Nils Venge's Wines: Keenan Winery & Saddleback Cellars will be held from August 07 to August 07 at 6:00pm at La Maison Gourmet in Mission Viejo, CA. Please join us on our beautiful terrace overlooking scenic Lake Mission Viejo. Savor six different highest-quality wines, paired with delicious cheeses and charcuteries. Top it all off with a magnificent chocolate fondue with fruit.

Of course, as you’ve come to expect, our tasting evening features a personable wine specialist who informs and entertains with his love and knowledge of the fruit of the vine. It’s truly a memorable evening. Reservations are required at (949) 916-4810.
Admission is $35/pers.. For information, call Louise Cote at 949-916-4810, e-mail info@lamaisongourmet.net or visit http://www.lamaisongourmet.net/calendar?id=BEUV37Ea&mv_pc=8.

VinoCamp will be held August 8 from 12 noon - 6pm at Graduate Student Centre, UBC in Vancouver, BC. In a more unstructured form than a standard conference, VinoCamp Vancouver, and introducing the world premiere of CheeseCamp, brings wine, cheese, people and technology together in one place, making wine and cheese accessible, educational and fun. A different type of conference, VinoCamp CheeseCamp 2009 is designed for people interested in technology, wine and cheese as participants are encouraged to take photos of what’s happening, to blog, tweet and message their experiences. Whether you’re a speaker, sponsor, cheese aficionado or wine drinker, our aim is to make this day memorable, fun, and interesting. You will learn more about wine and cheese, meet interesting people, and have a simply fabulous time. Admission is $75. For information, call Lori Pike at 604-808-6655, e-mail lpike@missionhillwinery.com or visit http://www.vinocamp.com.

Culinary Getaway in Napa Valley will be held from August 14 to August 16 in Yountville, CA. Join us for a weekend of food and wine exploration in Napa Valley, California. We will cook together in a beautiful winery setting using the finest in local ingredients, dine in favorite local restaurants and in private settings, taste regional wines, olive oils and cheeses. Admission is US$1200 for double occupancy, US$1500 for single occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-5187107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://www.culinarygetaways.com/getaways/?g=napaWeekend.

Wine Tasting: Central Coast to Sonoma will be held from August 14 to August 14 at 6:00pm at La Maison Gourmet in Mission Viejo, CA. Please join us on our beautiful terrace overlooking scenic Lake Mission Viejo. Savor six different highest-quality wines, paired with delicious cheeses and charcuteries. Top it all off with a magnificent chocolate fondue with fruit.

Of course, as you’ve come to expect, our tasting evening features a personable wine specialist who informs and entertains with his love and knowledge of the fruit of the vine. It’s truly a memorable evening. Reservations are required at (949) 916-4810.
Admission is $35/pers.. For information, call Louise Cote at 949-916-4810, e-mail info@lamaisongourmet.net or visit http://www.lamaisongourmet.net/calendar?id=BEUV37Ea&mv_pc=8.

Picnic At The Priory will be held August 18 6:00 - 8:30 PM at The Priory Hotel in Pittsburgh, PA. Carefully restored and renovated to modern standards, The Priory is a 24-room European-style hotel on Pittsburgh's North Shore. It features all of the appointments of a large establishment, and the personality and personal service that only a small boutique hotel can offer. Just ask the experts. The Zagat Survey of Top U.S. Hotels, Resorts & Spas calls The Priory "...a cozy inn filled with a combination of monastic charm and modern elegance. Other features include a "congenial" staff, happy hour in the library (with complimentary wine) and "wonderful courtyard garden." Admission is 58.00. For information, call Palate Partners at 412-391-8502, e-mail office@palatepartners.com or visit http://www.dreadnoughtwines.com/node/776.

Rootstock: The Best of Canadian Song, Wine & Food will be held August 19 from 6:30pm - 10:30 pm at Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. One Night Only! Tom Cochrane, Steven Page, Jim Cuddy, John Mann & Kathleen Edwards take the stage together at the Jackson-Triggs outdoor amphitheatre for a songwriters circle. Dinner by Niagara Estate Chefs David Penny and Tim Mackiddie along with Anna & Michael Olson. Admission is $209 + tax. For information, call Candis Scammell at 905-468-4637 x 5604, e-mail candis.scammell@leclosjordanne.com or visit http://www.jacksontriggswinery.com/en.

The Ontario Wine Society "The Passionate art of Wine" will be held August 22 1:30pm at Harbour Estates Winery in Jordan Station, Ontario. From the dawn of time, wine has created a passionate experience. It was once said, “In water, one sees one’s own face, but in wine, one beholds the heart of another.” No other beverage has inspired so many poets, writers, and artists. To enhance the experience of the passion and romance of wine, join us under the tent in the vineyards. Fraser Mowat, owner and operator of Harbour Estates, will lead us through our
tasting and explain the art and science of aromatic white wines of Niagara. Harbour Estates is a family-owned and operated business. Admission is $35 members, $45 non-members. For information, call Sue Couch at 416-921 9798, e-mail owsmailings@aol.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

Bobcaygeon Wine and Food Festival will be held August 22 from 12:00 noon to 7:30 at Settlers Village 80 Dunn Street in Bobcaygeon, Ontario. Wines from around the world and local foods from Ontario. Corbin Tomaszeski celebrity chef will have three cooking demonstrations. Dave Devall from CTV Weather will be the emcee for the day. All taking place in Settlers Village a living museum of century buildings and artifacts. Admission is $12.00. Proceeds go to The Bobcaygeon Chamber of Commerce and Settlers Village are the two organizations involved in this event. For information, call Lee Cunningham at 705-7382202, e-mail lee@tmfc.ca or visit http://www.bobcaygeonwinefestival.ca.

Passion: A Celebration of Niagara on the Lake Wine, Food and Cultural Arts will be held August 22 12:00 at The Common in Niagara on the Lake, On. Passion, a new and exciting Wine Food & Cultural Arts event is the inspiration of the Rotary Club of Niagara on the Lake in partnership with the Wineries of Niagara on the Lake and local epicurean restaurants.
Come taste the pairings of wine and gourmet food, listen to superb jazz music, ride the hot air balloon and then relax in the Savoia lounge Admission is $100.00 per person. Proceeds go to Niagara on the Lake Rotary Club For information, call James Down at 905-468 3173, e-mail james@niagarapassion.com or visit http://www.niagarapassion.com.

The Ontario Wine Society's Summer Bin End Dinner will be held August 26 at 5:45pm at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto, Ontario. It’s off to the races again! Our annual Bin End Dinner will be at the same price as 2008! This year, though originally planned for the Trackside Tent, the Slots have requested the use of the entire tent area for the evening and are offering each person who attends the dinner a $20 slots voucher and a $10 gift pack. Instead, we will be dining on the fifth floor in the Northern Dancer Room, named for Canada’s most famous thoroughbred. Along with the many TV monitors, you can take in the fabulous view of the races (and most of northwestern Toronto) from the outdoor balcony.
Following a white wine reception, we will have a selection of Ontario VQA wines from our cellars for each table to accompany the buffet meal. Admission is $75 members, $85 non-members. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-921 9798, e-mail yvonnken@pathcom.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

The 15th Annual Feast of Fields Fundraiser will be held September 13 from 1 pm to 5 pm at UBC Farm, 6182 South Campus Road in Vancouver, BC. This extravagant event highlights the many connections between farmers and chefs from across British Columbia. Savour a wide variety of delectable appetizers prepared by the best BC chefs, and quench your thirst with the finest wines from across the province, all the while increasing your awareness of local food. Admission is $75 (early bird tickets) $85 (regular priced tickets). For information, call Sara Unrau at 604-730 0450, e-mail unrau.sara@gmail.com or visit http://www.feastoffields.com.

Ottawa's Feast of Fields will be held September 13 from 12 noon to 4pm at Vincent Massey Park in Ottawa, ON. Join us under the majestic canopy of trees at Ottawa's Vincent Massey Park while you savour gourmet delights made by 30+ Ottawa’s acclaimed restaurant and catering chefs. Feast of Fields is a neat gourmet experience – the event brings together local farmers who share their organic harvest with chefs who make their creations right before your eyes. Savvy Company will host a wine bar featuring tastings of VQA wines from each of Ontario’s four wine regions. For the beer lovers, Beau’s All Natural Brewing Company will be pouring samples of their locally made beer. Throughout the afternoon, Master of Ceremonies - Adrian Harewood host of CBC’s ‘All in a Day’ - will keep things lively and our Savvy Sommeliers will provide interactive and insightful seminars on wine and food pairings. Admission is $40 in advance or $50 at the door. Proceeds go to Feast of Fields Ottawa is an annual event organized by Canadian Organic Growers (COG) Ottawa Chapter. COG, a volunteer, non-profit organization, is the national voice for organic food producers and consumers in Canada. For information, call Debbie Trenholm at 613-244-4000, e-mail debbie@savvycompany.ca.

Antipasti Italiani Hands-on Cooking Class and Wine Dinner will be held September 14 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm at DiVino Wine Studio - 225 Preston St. in Ottawa, ON. Chef Cindy Toffanello from Algonquin College will be with us to show you how to get organized in the kitchen, prepare, cook, eat, pair Italian wines and meditate! Menu to be announed. Admission is $84.00 + tax. For information, call Helen Sauve at 613-715-9399, e-mail helensauve@sympatico.ca.

Italian Bubbles Wine Dinner - 12 Course Tasting Menu will be held September 14 6:30 pm at Atelier Restaurant - 540 Rochester St. in Ottawa, ON. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to dine at one of Ottawa's most talked about restaurants - Atelier. Chef/Owner Marc Lepine and his creative team will create a one-of-a-kind Italian inspired menu unlike anything you've ever tasted. Each course of this incredible menu will be paired with a sparkling wine from Italy -covering the rang eof styles from dry to sweet, white to red, and all bubbly! A brilliant way to kick off La Vendemmia! Admission is $75 for 12 courses, $55 optional wine pairings + tax and gratuity.

Italy vs. Niagara Wine Tasting will be held September 15 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm at Divino Wine Studio - 225 Preston St. in Ottawa, ON. Compare grapes and styles of wine from the two countries we love so much! Antonio Mauriello, owner of DiVino Wine Studio and Karen LaVigne, from Selection de LaVigne and Slow Food Niagara leader will guide this unique tasting. Different styles of wines? Different grape varieties or terroirs? Admission is $39.00 + tax.

Preston Street Moveable Feast will be held September 16 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm at Preston St. in Ottawa, ON. The Moveable Feast Dining Experience is a multi-course wine paired meal enjoyed in multiple restaurants with a Sommelier as your guide. This event has sold out the last two years, well in adrance. Admission is Price TBD.

Le Strade del Vino - Wine Tasting will be held September 16 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm at Divino Wine Studio - 225 Preston St. in Ottawa, ON. Join Italian-born and trained Sommelier Antonio Mauriello at his Enoteca - Divino Wine Studio - for a tasting of Italian wines. Admission is $50.00 + Tax.

Monster Wine Night will be held September 16 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm at Trattoria Caffe Italia - 254 Preston St. in Ottawa, ON. This exclusive tasting is a fabulous opportunity to taste wines you've only ever dreamt about! Join us in Trattoria Caffe Italia's gorgeous VIP wine room where single bottles of select wines including Super Tuscan, Barolo, and Brunello will be opened, tasted and discussed. Wine expert Rob Elvy will lead this incredible tasting opportunity - only 15 spots available! Admission is $200pp inclusive of taxes and service. For information, call Sean Moher at 613-715-9399, e-mail sean@groovygrapes.com or visit http://www.prestonstreet.com/lavendemmia/schedule.php#.

La Vendemmia, Mario Pingue Wine Dinner will be held September 16 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm at The Urban Element in Ottawa, ON. “La Vendemmia” is Ottawa’s celebration of the grape harvest and a tribute to the fine food & wine of Italy. As part of this festival, we invite you to gather around the table with special guest Mario Pingue, one of North America’s premier producers of artisanal charcuterie. Discover why the age-old art of preserving meats is capturing the imagination of chefs and foodies alike. After years spent honing his craft in Niagara, with occasional trips abroad to learn from relatives in Italy, Pingue has succeeded in bringing the concept of Canadian prosciutto to new heights. We will learn how the craft has been handed down from father to sons as we sample his house-made bresola, succulent prosciutto and artisanal pancetta. This exclusive event also includes Italian wines paired with each course.
For more information on the festival visit: www.prestonstreet.com/lavendemmia.
Admission is $135.00. For information, call Sean Moher at 613-722-0885, e-mail sean@groovygrapes.com or visit http://www.prestonstreet.com/lavendemmia.

Do as the Romans Do - Wine and Cuisine of Rome and it's Surrounding Regions will be held September 17 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm at DiVino Wine Studio - 225 Preston St. in Ottawa, ON. Join our special guest for La Vendemmia - Chef and Niagara Specialties proprietor Mario Pingue for a Roman-inspired menu featuring his acclaimed artisan products, including his melt-in-your-mouth prosciutto and other incredible prok and beef products. Admission is $89.00 + tax + 15% gratuities. For information, call Sean Moher at 613-715-9399, e-mail sean@groovygrapes.com or visit http://www.prestonstreet.com/lavendemmia/schedule.php#.

Wine Dinner with Rob Elvy will be held September 17 6:30 pm at La Roma Restaurant - 430 Preston St. in Ottawa, ON. Join us for an annual favourite - a dinner featuring classic Italian flavours paired with Italian wines hosted by wine expert Rob Elvy. Rob will entertain you with his interesting wine anecdotes throughout the evening, as you enjoy delicious Italian cuisine and perfectly paired wine selections from Small Winemakers portfolio. Admission is Price TBD. For information, call Sean Moher at 613-715-9399, e-mail sean@groovygrapes.com or visit http://www.prestonstreet.com/lavendemmia/schedule.php#.

Taste Ontario will be held September 17 at 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto, ON. Ontario's wine country comes to the AGO for one night only. Discover why Ontario wines are causing such a stir and meet some of the province's most talented and passionate winemakers, including those from Tawse, Stratus, Hidden Bench, Closson Chase, Lailey, 13th Street and more. Sample the truly sensational 2007 vintage and more 90 wines, along with h’ors doeurves made with the freshest local ingredients. Admission is $45. For information, call Trina Hendry at 416-365-5767, e-mail trina.hendry@lcbo.com or visit http://www.vintages.com.

Savvy Supper Series featuring Rosehall Run Winery will be held September 17 at 6:30 pm at TRIO Restaurant at Novotel Ottawa Hotel in Ottawa, ON. The Savvy Supper Series showcases Canadian winemakers and their wines. This event is a great experience to meet and mingle with the people who are devoted to making premium Canadian wines. This event features self-taught winemaker and winery owner Dan Sullivan of Rosehall Run Vineyards who will share stories and secrets about his winery, his winemaking techniques and his impressive vineyard. A full range of Rosehall wines will be paired with the autumn menu of TRIO Restaurant's 'tasting plates' (tapas style) featuring local ingredients. Throughout the evening, Dan - along with TRIO’s executive chef Scott Lucas and Savvy sommeliers - will visit your table and answer any wine or food questions. Admission is $85 per person. Ticket prices include gratuities & taxes. For information, call Debbie Trenholm at 613-SAVVYCO (728-8926), e-mail debbie@savvycompany.ca or visit http://www.savvycompany.ca.

Riverfront Wine Festival will be held from September 19 to September 20 from 1 PM - 6:30 PM at Lewis & Clark Landing in Omaha, NE. Omaha's first annual Riverfront Wine Festival provides an opportunity to sample from more than 100 wines from around the world and learn about new and exciting varieties from the experts. Taste different wines, experience a variety of food pairings and discover what you enjoy! Admission is $20 in advance, $25 at the gate. Proceeds go to Junior League of Omaha has been selected as the non-profit beneficiary, receiving a portion of the ticket sales. For information, call Jen Kocher at 402-8506776, e-mail jkocher@urbanwineevents.com or visit http://www.riverfrontwinefestival.com.

Tomato, Tomato, Tomatoes will be held September 19 10:30 am - 1:30 pm at DiVino Wine Studio - 225 Preston St. in Ottawa, ON. Join Peggy Hall from Slow Food Ottawa-Gatineau in the kitchen to work with the amazing tomato: grilled, sundried, sauced and more ways to preserve this delicious fruit. Menu to be announced. Admission is $84.00 + Tax. For information, call Sean Moher at 613-715-9399, e-mail sean@groovygrapes.com or visit http://www.prestonstreet.com/lavendemmia/schedule.php#.

Amore a Prima Vista - Italian Language Class will be held September 19 10:30 am - 12:30 pm at DiVino Wine Studio - 225 Preston St. in Ottawa, ON. Meet and greet Signor Pasquale in this Free first class! Admission is Free. For information, call Sean Moher at 613-715-9399, e-mail sean@groovygrapes.com or visit http://www.prestonstreet.com/lavendemmia/schedule.php#.

Conversations will be held September 19 noon at Southbrook Vineyards in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON. Our first guest is Victor Sperling, viticulturist from Delheim Wines in Stellenbosch, South Africa and the meal will be hosted by our Director of Winemaking and Viticulture, Ann Sperling. Please join us in our Great Room on September 19th at noon for an afternoon of conversation, starting with a multi-course succulent lunch/barbecue featuring the talents of Chef Erik Peacock of Wellington Court Restaurant. And of course, both the wines of Delheim and Southbrook will figure prominently in the meal. Admission is $95 per person plus taxes and gratuity. For information, call Michael Nazareth at 888-5811581, e-mail michael@southbrook.com.

Sonoma Valley CRUSH will be held from September 19 to September 20 11am-4pm at Sonoma Valley in Kenwood, CA. Have you ever romanticized about getting involved in a wine harvest & crush? Find out what it's like in the Heart of Sonoma Valley. Join us for our first annual Sonoma Valley CRUSH Weekend - a hands-on Harvest experience. Don't miss this event. There is extremely limited availability and we promise you a truly unforgettable experience. Admission is Weekend Pass = $30 per person ($10 Designated Driver Ticket). For information, call Josie Gay at 866-794-9463, e-mail josie@heartofsonoma.com or visit http://www.heartofsonomavalley.com/events/event.wine.

Taste of the Vine, Grape Leaves and Wine will be held September 20 5:00-7:30 pm at AJs Armenian Cuisine in Fresno, CA. A wine tasting benefit for SOAR, with Agajanian Winery
Special Guest Actor Ken Davitian, Get Smart, Borat, Soul Men, Spartans. Armenian Music, Mezza Table, Silent Auction, Armenian Artwork
Did you know that Armenians were some of the documented first winemakers? The first vineyards planted were in Ararat valley presumably from the descendents of Noah after the great flood.
Lots of Wine, grapes, raisins, and stuffed grape leaves. Proceeds go to SOAR, Society for Orphaned Armenian Relief. A humanitarian group that gives aid to 15 orphanages in Armenia For information, call Vanessa Kachadurian at 559-246-4285, e-mail salesa1@aol.com.

12th Annual Charity Grape Stomp will be held September 20 11:00 am - 2:00 pm at Adult high School Parking Lot - Next to Soccer Field in Ottawa, ON. Grab a friend, co-worker, or family member and register a team. Stomp grapes to make as much juice as you can in one minute. This is one La Vendemmia event not to be missed! Help raise funds for a great charity and have a barrel of laughs! Admission is FREE. Proceeds go to Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation For information, call Sean Moher at 613-713-9399, e-mail sean@groovygrapes.com or visit http://www.prestonstreet.com/lavendemmia/schedule.php#.

Taste Little Italy will be held September 20 2:30 pm - 5:00 pm at Sala San Marco - 215 Preston St. in Ottawa, ON. Our signature closing event features your best opportunity to Taste Little Italy! Restaurants from the street will be offering up their best dishes for you to sample, plus a range of Italian wines will be available for tasting too. A fantastic way to spend a Sunday afternoon. SPECIAL two events for one price! Your ticket to access Taste Little Italy at Sala San Marco will also give you access to the olive oil and balsamic vinegar show at DiVino Wine Studio. Admission is $49 before Sept 1 - $45 after Sept 1. For information, call Sean Moher at 613-715-9399, e-mail sean@groovygrapes.com or visit http://www.prestonstreet.com/lavendemmia/schedule.php#.

Culinary Getaway in Tuscany will be held from September 20 to September 26 in Chianti region, Italy. Join Sherry Page for a week of culinary exploration in Tuscany. We will cook together with local chefs and explore regional wines, olive oils and cheeses. We will explore the Chianti countryside and visit small towns there, in addition to Florence, San Gimignano and Siena. We will dine in local restaurants and explore the markets of this bountiful area of Italy. Admission is US$3850 for double occupancy, US$4200 for single occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-5187107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://www.culinarygetaways.com/getaways/tuscany/?g=tuscanyWeek.

Sonoma Wine Festival will be held September 23 7pm at Willow Park Wines & Spirits in Calgary, Alberta. Tasting over 90 premium wines from more than 20 Sonoma wineries, presented by the vintners themselves including: Kendall-Jackson, Chateau St. Jean, DeLoach, Foppiano, Francis Ford Coppola, Gloria Ferrer, Pezzi King, Rodney Strony, Ravenswood, Schug, Seghesio and many more! Californa fare created by Executive Chef Ryan Pollnow of Kendall-Jackson Winery, Tommy Burger, Metropolitan Grille and Seven. Silent auction. All proceeds will support "Local Families in Crisis" Admission is $40. Proceeds go to "Local Families in Crisis" For information, call Julie Fitzsimmons at 403-296-1640 ext 248, e-mail julie@willowpark.net or visit http://www.willowparkwines.com/events.htm.

Women & Wine Sonoma Luncheon with Mary T. Colhoun of Landmark Vineyards will be held September 23 11am at Willow Park Wines & Spirits in Calgary, Alberta. Mary T. Colhoun, owner of Landmark Vineyards, will host this very special luncheon. Enjoy delicious wine and food as our palates travel to the rolling hills of Sonoma. Wonderful wines and fresh fare combine for a perfect med-week getaway celebrating Sonoma at Willow Park Wines & Spirits. Admission is $65. For information, call Julie Fitzsimmons at 403-296-1640 ext 248, e-mail julie@willowpark.net or visit http://www.willowparkwines.com/events.htm.

All That Glitters: Beyond the Grape! will be held September 26 7pm-10pm at T. Pepin Hospitality Center in Tampa, FL. Join us for an evening of signature wines, specialty beers and spirits paired with tantalizing dishes prepared by some of Tampa Bay's best restaurants and caterers. Event includes a live swing band, casino games, live and silent auctions, and much more! Admission is $60.00 general admission; $100 VIP admission. Proceeds go to MacDonald Training Center. Our mission is to empower people with disabilities to lead the lives they choose. For information, call Marianne Monoc at 813-870-1300, ext. 283, e-mail mmonoc@macdonaldcenter.org or visit http://www.macdonaldcenter.org/subpages/wine_tasting_2009.asp.

The Ontario wine Society's Sipping with the Stars will be held September 29 6:30 pm reception, 7:00pm tasting at Seasons Restaurant, 134 Lakeshore Road East in Oakville, Ontario. "Sipping with the Stars", presented by Linda Bramble, provides video clips of such stars as Humphrey Bogart, Michael Douglas, Kevin Kline, Meg Ryan and Russell Crowe sharing the silver screen with wine. Linda's presentation will also introduce us to the "dramatic" pleasures of wine – how to taste, serve and dine with wine. Admission is $40 per person. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-996 6700, e-mail yvonnken@pathcom.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

Big Crush will be held from October 3 to October 4 from 10:00 a.m - 4:00 p.m. at Amador County Wineries in Plymouth, CA. The vintners of Amador County will stage their annual Big Crush Harvest Festival. For $30 per person ($20 for Sunday-only tickets), wine lovers can partake of world-class wines poured from barrel and bottle at 30 family-owned Amador wineries while savoring tasty eats, swinging to live music, and enjoying special harvest activities. Admission is $30. For information, call Jamie Lubenko at 209-245-6992, e-mail jamie@amadorwine.com.

Old World Classics Festival will be held October 3 at 7pm at Willow Park Wines & Spirits in Calgary, Alberta. Join us to taste some of the world's most prestigious wines and beers. This festival showcases the old world regions of France, Spain and Austria plus the traditional beers of Belgium. Tantalize your tastebuds with classic "amuse bouche" while sipping some of the worlds most heralded wines and beers. A rare opportunity to taste the most famous wine regions of Europe including Bordeaux, Burgundy, Champagne, Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Priorat. A must-attend event with exclusive vintages, unusual beers and delicious food pairings. Only 120 tickets available. Admission is $95. For information, call Julie Fitzsimmons at 403-296-1640 ext 221, e-mail julie@willowpark.net or visit http://www.willowparkwines.com/events.htm.

Culinary Getaway in Provence will be held from October 4 to October 10 in Goult, France. Join Sherry Page in October as we explore the food, wine, culture and history of the Provence region of France. We will cook with local French chefs, taste wines in Chateauneuf du Pape, shop the local markets for seasonal ingredients, visit the small villages and historical interests, dine in local restaurants and taste regional olive oils, cheeses and chocolates. Admission is US$3500 per person - double occupancy; US$3850 per person - single occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-5187107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://www.culinarygetaways.com/getaways/provence/?g=provenceCulinaryWeek.

The Ontario Wine Society's and the Porsche Club of America's - An Afternoon in the Country will be held October 4 11:30 am at Motor Tour in Toronto, Ontario. This is an afternoon navigator-swapping fun tour west, north, and east of Toronto. Here is how it will work. You, or your navigator, or another passenger in your vehicle, may swap with the navigator of the Porsche for part of the trip, giving you a chance to experience a ride in a Porsche. This is not mandatory and is dependent on balancing the number of riders and cars on each leg of the tour.

Itinerary for the Tour:

Porsche and Ontario Wine Society folks assemble at the PetroCanada Service Centre, Hwy 400 northbound, south of King Rd. for instructions, signing of waiver and navigator/passenger swapping.

Ted Fullerton’s home and studio, north of Schomberg, for a talk and tour of Ted’s art work in his house, on his grounds and in his studio.

Ocala Orchards Farm Winery for a wine/local foods tasting.

Willow Springs Winery for a wine tasting.

Crystal Fountain Banquet Hall for a sit-down dinner.

Admission is $ 65 each for members and one guest, $75 for additional guests and non-members.. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-921 9798, e-mail yvonnken@pathcom.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

Wine Tour & Culinary Arts Event will be held from October 12 to October 18 at All Week at Napa, California in Napa Valley, California. Rail car trip to the new Avia Hotel in Napa, Ca. Food Network Chef Ted Allen, Saxophonist Michael Lington, vocalist Kevyn Lettau, legendary sounds of Nancy Wilson with Celebrity Golf Event at Bodega Harbour Golf Course. Admission is $3750 p/p. Proceeds go to Watoto. Helping the Aids inflicted children and people of Gulu, Africa. For information, call Sherry Brinckerhoff at 888-763-7577 Ext 5, e-mail sherryb@smoothjazztravelagency.com or visit http://smoothjazztravelagency.com.

Big Reds wine tasting will be held October 15 at 6:30 pm at Biagio's Italian Kitchen in Ottawa, Ontario . Explore the wines with a sommelier accompanied by a four course Italian cuisine to match. Admission is $75. For information, call Emily Tait at 613-828 0770, e-mail emily@biagios.ca.

Wine in the Wilderness will be held from October 16 to October 17 at West Coast Wilderness Lodge in Egmont on the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia. A weekend gala with seven-course gourmet meals and excellent B.C. & international wine pairings. Includes an optional champagne boat cruise through the Skookumchuck Rapids, fastest salt water rapids in North America. This is our sixth annual Wine in the Wilderness and each one has been a great success. Admission is Starting at $464. For information, call Paul Hansen at 604-883-3667, e-mail lodge@wcwl.com or visit http://wcwl.com/site/specials/wine_in_the_wilderness.html.

The 26th Annual Wine in the Pines will be held from October 23 to October 24 at 6 PM at Keyston Resort in Keystone, CO. International Wine and Gourmet Food Tasting featuring Rodney Strong Vineyards. Savor creations from AAA Four Diamond restaurants Keystone Ranch, Alpenglow Stube, Ski Tip Lodge and Der Fondue Chessel plus 500 international wines. Admission is Starts at $100 PP. Proceeds go to United Cerebral Palsy Colorado, providing service to nearly 33,000 people annually. For information, call Liz Neafus-stenzel at 303-691-9339, e-mail lizns@cpco.org or visit http://www.wineinthepines.org.

Scenes of Sandbanks and beyond will be held from October 23 to November 8 from 11am - 5pm Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at Black Prince Winery in Picton, Ontario. An original art show and sale featuring over 40 artists that celebrates all that is Prince Edward County particularly the burgeoning wine industry and the Provincial Parks of this glorious area. A limited edition Cabernet will be available during the show and showcase a piece of work from Richard Brzozowski. Admission is free. Proceeds go to Proceeds from this show will be directed through the Friends of Sandbanks to support the ongoing reforestation project at Sandbanks Provincial Park. For information, call Carrie Taylor at 613-476-4888, e-mail ctaylor@blackprincewinery.com or visit http://www.blackprincewinery.com/index.php?id=6.

The Ontario Wine Society presents Shari Darling's Afternoon Delight will be held October 24 from 10:00am to 4:00pm at Badminton and Racquet Club of Toronto in Toronto, Ontario. This fun and educational workshop will be led by Shari Darling. It is based on the principles in her best selling and award-winning cookbooks -- Harmony On the Palate and Orgasmic Appetizers and Matching Wines. Orgasmic Appetizers and Matching Wines was awarded Best Food and Wine Pairing Cookbook in Canada at the international 2009 Gourmand World Cookbook Awards in Paris, France. In this workshop, you'll learn the basic principles for pairing wine with food by thinking wine styles first. You’ll quickly learn how to pair any wine with food on a consistent and dependable basis to experience a culinary orgasm every time! Admission is $67. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-921 9798, e-mail yvonnken@pathcom.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

Nightlife will be held October 27 8-10:30 at The Great Hall (Queen and Dovercourt) in Toronto, Ontario. Exposing and Celebrating Napa Valley's Crush on Toronto with 22 Winemakers Showcasing their own wines, 1 Local DJ. Exclusive VIP Tickets (max 48) offered for Winemaker Speed tasting from 7-8pm. Admission is $48 | VIP HOUR $58. Proceeds go to Rebecca's Hope - Leukemia Research For information, call Angela Aiello at 647-519.2643, e-mail info@iyellowwineclub.com or visit http://www.iyellowwineclub.com.

Around the World in Beer will be held October 28 at 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Glebe Community Centre - 175 Third Ave. in Ottawa, ON. Explore the world of beer with a Groovy Grapes Beer Expert as your guide. Sample 8 different beers and learn about the flavor profile and beer making techniques used in each. Interact with your own personal Beer expert and take-away special tasting notes on each product sampled.
Admission is $35.00 per pseron. For information, call Sean Moher at 613-715-9399, e-mail sean@groovygrapes.com or visit http://Groovy Grapes.

Gold Medal Plates will be held October 28 at 6:00 pm at Hilton Lac Leamy - 3 boul de Casino in Gatineau, QC. The ultimate celebration of Canadian Excellence in cuisine, wine, entertainment and athletic achievement. Admission is $300. For information, call Sean Moher at 613-715-9399, e-mail sean@groovygrapes.com.

Vino della Vita will be held November 2 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM at Roy Thompson Hall in Toronto, ON. Support the Heart and Stroke Foundation while enjoying a taste of Italy! Vino della Vita 2009 Sample from more than 100 exceptional Italian wines, served to you by the vintners themselves. Enjoy the opportunity to order these exclusive wines from the vineyards directly to your private cellar. Savour authentic Italian cuisine as you circle the elegant Roy Thomson Hall rotunda. Admission is $125. Proceeds go to This event is in benefit of the Heart and Stroke Foundation Centre for Stroke Recovery, a world renowned facitiliy located in Chatham, ON. The goal of the facility is to provide faster recovery and improved quality of life for those affected by strokes. For information, call Michelle Palmer at 416-489-7111 ext 839, e-mail mpalmer@hsf.on.ca or visit http://heartandstroke.ca/vinodellavita.

Fith Town Cheese Tasting will be held November 4 at 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at The Urban Element - 424 Parkdale Ave. in Ottawa, ON. Located in nearby Prince Edward County, The Fifth Town Artisan Cheese Company produces fine hand-made cheeses using fresh, locally produced goat and sheep milk. Situated on 20 acres of agricultural land, the 4200 square foot dairy processing, retail and educational facility enhances the practice of artisan cheese making with advanced, sustainable design. The environmentally responsible enterprise integrates traditional methods and craftsmanship ethics with local terroir. During this evening's interactive tasting workshop, cheese connoisseur & sommelier, Andrew Laliette, demystifies the art of wine and cheese pairing, highlighting six selections of Fifth Town cheese with his top pick of Ontario wines. Admission is $75.00 per person. For information, call Sean Moher at 613-715-9399, e-mail sean@groovygrapes.com.

Penfolds Tasting with Peter Gago will be held November 04 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at Le Meridien King Edward, Windsor Room in Toronto, ON. Join us for an intimate event with easygoing Aussie icon Peter Gago and discover why Penfolds is Australia’s most famous winery. Taste a whole spectrum of Penfolds’ most exciting wines, including the much-anticipated 2004 Grange which has already been scored 98 points by both Wine Spectator and Australian Wine Companion! Admission is $75.00. For information, call Matt Wade at 416-365.5767, e-mail matt.wade@lcbo.com or visit http://www.vintages.com/events/penfolds-events.html.

Meet the Winemaker and Wine Sampling will be held November 6 from 6pm - 8pm at Crown Wine and Spirits in Boca Raton, Florida. Join Mark Tobin, Proprietor of Mattebella Vineyards, for a 'meet and greet' and get to know the creator of Mattebella Wines. Mark will also be offering a complimentary sampling of four wines that Mattebella currently offers: 2005 Old World Blend, Mattebella Familigia, Chablis-style Chardonnay, and a Rose. Admission is Free. For information, call Lauren Simo at 954-370-8999, e-mail lsimo@boardroompr.com or visit http://www.mattebellavineyards.com.

Taste the Season 2009 will be held from November 7 to November 29 11 am to 5 pm at wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Admission is $40 (plus applicable taxes). For information, call Taste the season Wineries of niagara-on-the-lake at 905-468-1950, e-mail contact@wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com.

Importing Wine For Pleasure & Profit Seminar will be held November 14 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM at Old Mill Inn & Spa in Toronto, Ontario. Featuring C. Steven Trenholme, a 30-year veteran of the international beverage alcohol industry, with details on how to import wine, spirits and beer into the Ontario marketplace $295 Pre-Registration Required Contact -- C.S. Trenholme & Associates, cstrenholme@sympatico.ca Admission is $295. For information, call C. steven Trenholme at 416-883-3580, e-mail cstrenholme@sympatico.ca or visit http://www.canmarketwine.com/seminars.html.

Tutored Tasting - "Dessert wines - Not just for dessert!" will be held November 21 at 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm at The Urban Element - 424 Parkdale Ave. in Ottawa, ON. Ever wonder what to do with your stash of sweet wines in the cellar? Late Harvest Icewine and fortified wine need not be reserved for the end of the meal. Join a Groovy Grapes sommelier for an enlightening tour of the world of dessert wines and learn how to pair them with any course of your meal, from starters and salads, to mains, cheese, and of course, desserts. Includes a tasting of 8 sweet wines and nibbles paired with each. Admission is $75.00 per person. For information, call Sean Moher at 613-715-9399, e-mail sean@groovygrapes.com.

The third annual Ontario Consumers Icewine Challenge will be held November 21 11 to 4pm at LCBO Tasting Room 615 Scottsdale Drive in Guelph, ON. It will be held as a drop in style afternoon. Any icewine tried,
the consumer drops a ticket in the container provided. The category with the most ticket stubs win. It’s just that simple and a fun way to discover Ontario Icewines. There will be three classifications. Vidal, Riesling and Red. Up to 14 Ontario wineries to participate. Local food stuffs, fair trade coffee, local artisan breads, local cheeses, and other sweets have been arranged. Admission is $10 ( 4 samples). Proceeds go to to the Guelph Wish fund for Children. They are celebrating their 25th year as a charity here in Guelph. The President, Mr. Ron Asselstine retired NHL referee will be present. For information, call Orest Poluch at 519-823-5080, e-mail orest.poluch@lcbo.com.

Ride to Conquer Cancer Fundraising Party will be held November 22 6:00-9:00pm at Red Canoe Bistro in Burlington, Ontario. Burlington's new restaurant the Red Canoe, presents an evening of fine food complemented by a silent auction and door prizes. Chef Tobias Pohl-Weary and Sous Chef Phil Lalonde
will prepare a mingling menu of Chef’s Stations featuring their “Modern Canadian Cuisine” Admission is $100 per ticket. Proceeds go to The evening is proudly in support of the 2010 Ride to Conquer Cancer For information, call Belinda Stadnyckyj at 905-637 6137, e-mail stad@cogeco.ca or visit http://www.redcanoebistro.com.

The French Connection will be held November 27 7:00 PM at Eight Wine Bar & Restaurant, 8 Colborne St., Cosmopolitan Hotel in Toronto, Ontario. Internationally acclaimed Sommelier, Zoltan Szabo and Eight Wine Bar & Restaurant Executive Chef, Derek Kennedy will be presenting an evening of glorious cuisine, accompanied with some of the best Bordeaux-style wines from across the country, served "blind" with their cousins from France. If you ever said that French Wine is better, then this is your chance to prove to yourself wrong! Or right? This affair will indeed bring you a taste buds-tantalizing, heart-seducing gastronomic, excitement and unexpected surprises! Ten wines to be tasted along with ten culinary masterpieces. $100.00 per person. Space is limited. Reservations are first come first serve. Admission is $100 + tax & gratuity. For information, call Zoltan Szabo at 647-381 9463, e-mail zoltan@zoltanszabo.org or visit http://eightwinebar.com/events.php.

The 26th Annual Holiday Open House will be held from November 27 to November 28 from 11am - 4pm at 9077 Sonoma Highway in Kenwood, CA. Toast the Holiday Season in the Wine Country. Heart of Sonoma Valley Association invites you to our 26th Annual Holiday Open House. Join 24 wineries throughout the Heart of Sonoma Valley for this annual celebration and enjoy wine tastings, meet winemakers, mingle in our caves & cellars, stock up on your favorite wines for the holidays, pick up holiday gifts for your friends & family and relish in wine country holiday cheer. Purchase tickets online at or call (866) 794-9463. Admission is $30.00 per person in advance ($35 at the door)/ Designated Driver tickets are $10 each. For information, call Josie Gay at 866-794-9463, e-mail josie@heartofsonoma.com.

The Ontario Wine Society presents Our Premier - Taste and Order Event November 30 6:00pm to 9:00pm at U of T Faculty Club, 41 Willcocks St. in Toronto, Ontario. 43 Ontario Wineries and more than 200 of some of Ontario’s best VQA wines. The Toronto Chapter of the Ontario Wine Society decided that there is a need for a no-frills, serious, but, at the same time fun, tasting event in Toronto that brings together as many Ontario wineries as possible for the sole purpose of tasting their VQA wines with the intent to order. In Ontario, the wineries, by law, are not allowed to physically provide you with bottles of their wines at this event. You will be able to order the wines for delivery to your home or office. Also available to order at this event, by cheque or cash only, will be Eisch breathable glasses and Schott Zwiesel, titanium-crystal break-resistant glasses at a 15% discount from retail prices. Here’s a great opportunity to do some holiday season shopping. Bring some friends!Admission is $25 each for members and one guest, $35 for additional guests and non-members.. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-921 9798, e-mail yvonnken@pathcom.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

21 Stocking Days of Christmas will be held from December 1 to December 21 from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm at Niagara-on-the-Lake in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Make Niagara-on-the-Lake wine country your destination for holiday shopping and cellar stocking! Visit us in December for 21 special days of touring and tasting as we dust off an exclusive selection of wines available only at our cellar doors. From wines available in extremely limited supply to back vintages that will be available to purchase during this event only, we’ve assembled 21 exceptional VQA wines for you to sample and purchase for gifting, collecting or to celebrate the season. Once you’ve stocked your cellars for holiday entertaining, discover the shops and boutiques of Niagara-on-the-Lake for unique gifts for everyone on your list. Special offers for touring pass holders are being offered by our retail partners during this event. See our website at www.wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com for full details. Tasting and Shopping Passes: $25 per person (plus applicable taxes). Passes can be used any day from December 1 to 21, 2009. Order online at www.niagaraonthelake.com or by phone at 905-468-1950. Admission is $25 per person (plus applicable taxes). For information, call 905-468-1950, e-mail lynn@aldersonandco.ca or visit http://www.niagaraonthelake.com.

Taste - A celebration of BC wine & cuisine will be held December 4 from 7-11pm at Lark clothing store in Vancouver, BC. This charity event highlights BC's small and hard to find wines in a blind tasting to engage peoples minds and palates. You won't find these wines at most tastings, meet the hidden gems of the BC wine world. Food pairings for each wine will be served; local BC fare is highlighted like chantrelle ravioli and huckleberry truffles. Admission is 40. Proceeds go to Mount Pleasant Elementary School - to help with funding cuts to school programs. 100% of proceeds go to help the students and teachers of the school. For information, call Robin Kort at 604-8795275, e-mail robin@swallowtailtours.com.

Icewine & Jazz Celebrations - Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake will be held from January 1 to January 31 at 11:00 am to 12:00 am at Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Niagara-on-the-Lake comes alive in January with a full month of Icewine & Jazz Celebrations! Our wineries, restaurants, accommodations and Heritage District merchants have put together an outstanding month with hundreds of events that offer something for all wine lovers! The 22 Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake have assembled an incredible lineup of Icewine and jazz themed events for your touring experience – from Icewine and food tastings to elegant receptions and winemakers’ dinners – choose your favourites and plan to spend a few days experiencing Winter in Niagara-on-the-Lake Wine Country. Check out our website at www.wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com for a complete list of events being featured during Icewine & Jazz Celebrations. The Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake encourage you to taste and tour responsibly. Please designate a driver who won’t be drinking, or enjoy worry-free touring by booking with one of our local transportation providers. Visit our website for accommodation and transportation partners. Admission is Free. For information, call Lynn Maceira at 905-468-1950, e-mail lynn@aldersonandco.ca.

The 15th Annual Xerox Icewine Gala will be held January 15 8pm to 11pm at Fallsview Casino Resort in Niagara Falls, Ontario. This spectacular evening showcases wines from more than 25 of Ontario’s wineries, and features Canada’s largest tasting of internationally acclaimed Icewines and other wines. Combined with exemplary Niagara Cuisine prepared by the Fallsview Casino’s Golden Lotus and 17 Noir, as well as outstanding entertainment, this is a unique and unforgettable evening. For information, visit us online. To purchase tickets, call 905-688-0212. Admission is $175 CAD. Special rate before December 15th, save $50 per couple. For information, call Jessica Mcgarry at 905-688-0212, e-mail jessica@chimpanzee.ca or visit http://www.icewinefestival.com/page/icewine_events.

Wine Seminar will be held January 16 at 11am at Flat Rock Cellars in Jordan , Ontario. Join Host Ed Madronich of Flat Rock Cellars for an educational and fun tasting of the winery’s award winning wines. For information, visit us online. To book, call 905-688-0212. Admission is $10. Limited seating. For information, call Jessica Mcgarry at 905-688-0212, e-mail jessica@chimpanzee.ca or visit http://www.icewinefestival.com/page/icewine_events.

Twenty Valley Winter Winefest will be held from January 16 to January 17 from 12 Noon to 5pm at Main Street in Jordan, Ontario. This year, Icewine will share centre stage with sparkling and premium VQA wines from some of the most celebrated wineries in Twenty Valley. Renowned local chefs will design their culinary offerings around the premium featured wines, creating a unique food and wine pairing experience. Enjoy an enchanting winter afternoon with an open fire, live entertainment and sensational tastings. Free Admission. For information, call Jessica Mcgarry at 905-562-3636, e-mail jessica@chimpanzee.ca or visit http://www.twentyvalley.ca.

Discovery Pass Program will be held from January 16 to January 31 on weekends from 11am to 5pm in Niagara Region, Ontario. The Discovery Pass is your passport to six wineries to enjoy wine and food pairings during the festival. Call 905-688-0212 or visit any of the following wineries to purchase! Admission is $30. For information, call Jessica Mcgarry at 905-688-0212, e-mail jessica@chimpanzee.ca or visit http://www.icewinefestival.com/page/icewine_events.

What is Schott Zwiesel? will be held January 18 at 6:00 pm in Toronto, Ontario. Join us at Cannery Restaurant, nestled at the heart of the Distillery District, as Michael Pinkus, “The Grape Guy”, and our generous host, Lloyd Thistle, President of Fortessa of Canada, guide us through a truly unique tasting experience. We will explore the theory that each varietal can better express its distinctive characteristics when tasted in the appropriately shaped stemware. Michael Pinkus is the head writer for the Ontario Wine Review. Most recently, Michael placed a very respectable, and very Canadian, 4th in the 2009 Tasting Challenge against 250 amateur and professional winos.
The tasting will be followed by a selection of appetizers prepared by The Cannery’s Executive Chef, Eric Pless. After the tasting, each attendee will receive the set of five different glasses used for the tasting. The suggested retail value of the five crystal wine glasses is $65. Admission is $ 55 each - member and one guest, $70 each - addition guests and non-members. For information, call Sadie Darby at 416-921 9798, e-mail contact@ontariowinesociety.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

Spain (2) will be held January 21 at 6:30pm at 1730 Mission Hill Road in West Kelowna, BC. Break up the winter blues with a quick trip to the Mediterranean. In this new class Chef Batey will explore his favourite flavours from this exciting country. Being located on both the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean brings double the seafood options in addition to great land-grown food sources. For more information on this class or the additional winter culinary classes hosted by our chefs, please visit www.missionhillwinery.com or call 250-768-6483. Admission is $79 per class plus applicable taxes.

Wine Seminar will be held January 23 11am at Legends Estate Winery in Beamsville , Ontario. Join Legends Estates winemaker Serge Papineau, and owner Paul Lizak for an educational and fun tasting of internationally acclaimed Icewine, featured in the Wall Street Journal and Martha Stewart Living Magazine. Discover unique Ontario grape varietals of Sémillon and Malbec. For information, visit us online. To book, call 905-688-0212. Admission is $10. Limited seating. For information, call Jessica Mcgarry at 905-688-0212, e-mail jessica@chimpanzee.ca or visit http://www.icewinefestival.com/page/icewine_events.

Winterfest in the Square will be held January 23 7pm to 11pm at Market Square in St. Catharines, Downtown , Ontario. Sip and savour the magic of winter in St. Catharines. Join us, as we celebrate Winterfest in our historic downtown. Presenting live music, gourmet cuisine, artisanal cheeses, and delectable VQA wines. Purchase tokens for wine and food, and a commemorative glass. For information, call 905-688-0212 or visit us online. Admission is Free Admission . For information, call Jessica Mcgarry at 905-688-0212, e-mail jessica@chimpanzee.ca or visit http://www.icewinefestival.com/page/icewine_events.

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Icewine Experience will be held from January 23 to January from 11am-5pm at Queen Street in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Join us outdoors in the Heritage District for ice carving demonstrations, superb cuisine and, of course, wonderful Icewine! Admission is free. For information, call Kimberly Hundertmark at 905-688-0212, e-mail kimberlyh@niagarawinefestival.com or visit http://www.icewinefestival.com/page/icewine_events.

Taste of Winterlude will be held from January 28 to February 21 at over 50 restaurants in Ottawa-Gatineau, Ontario. Gather some first-rate company, warm up to Winterlude and savour the long winter nights. During Taste of Winterlude, over 50 restaurants in Canada's Capital Region offer exclusive prix-fixe menus at $25, $35, $45 or $65. Or opt for one of the unique fine dining experiences: deliciously interactive winemaker and sommelier-led dinners, walkabout winter feasts, food and wine tastings, and the Wines of Ontario Winter WineFest. Registration required for the fine dining experiences. Admission is Prix-fixe menus start at $25; Fine dining experiences start at $69. Proceeds go to Food Banks Canada; American Express will donate 5% of purchases charged to American Express Cards during Taste of Winterlude to Food Banks Canada (up to a total donation of $40,000). For information, call Groovy Grapes at 613-715-9399, e-mail events@groovygrapes.com or visit http://www.winterlude.gc.ca/taste.

Beer and Wine Tasting for a Cause will be held January 28 at 7:00pm - 9:00pm at The Reserve Wine Bar and Shop in Ladera Ranch, CA. Fundraiser for Breast Cancer -All proceeds benefit the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade. $25 wine tasting & $15 beer tasting with $10 of each tasting going toward to the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade * Stella & Dot jewelry available for purchase, 20% of all profits being donated * Raffles and silent auction items. Proceeds go to Avon Breast Cancer Crusade -- Benefiting the fight against breast cancer For information, call Erin Markland at 949-276-5688, e-mail simply.stylish@yahoo.com or visit http://www.thereservewines.com.

Michael's Wine Cellar Ooh, La, La Beguiling Bordeaux Wine Dinner will be held January 30 7 pm at Michael's Wine Cellar in Sarasota, FL. Savor the history and intricate wines of the Bordeaux region as Michael’s Wine Cellar presents their Ooh, La, La Beguiling Bordeaux wine dinner featuring four of France’s leading and historic wineries. These four illustrious wineries who are elite members of the Union des Grand Crus de Bordeaux: Château Camensac, Château Climens, Château Chasse-Spleen, and Château Bouscaut will be pouring their very best wines for your pleasure. Michael’s Ooh, La, La Beguiling Bordeaux wine dinner will be held on Saturday, January 30th at 7pm. Cost for this wine dinner is $125++ per person; a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Sarasota-Manatee Fresh Originals. This wine dinner is a must for the Bordeaux lover. Help us welcome our special guests for the evening, Virginie Achou-Lepage, Director of Chateau’s Climens and Bouscaut, and Jean-Pierre Foubet, Director of Chateau’s Camensac and Chasse-Spleen for an intimate wine dinner. Savor the unique wines of Château Bouscaut vintages 2007 and 2006 – Château Chasse-Spleen vintages 2006 and 2000 - Château Camensac vintages 2006 and 2000, and Château Climens vintages 1996 and 2005. Rated among some of the best of Bordeaux! Chef Al Massa has planned a beautiful five-course masterpiece feast to bring out the intricate layers of each wine for your joie de vivre. Admission is $125, per person. Proceeds go to Sarasota-Manatee Fresh Originals For information, call Sarah Lansky at 941-366-0007 ext. 223, e-mail selansky@verizon.net.

The Ontario Wine Society's Icewine Weekend will be held from January 30 to January 31 3:00pm to 9:00pm at Konzelmann Winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Banish the winter blues by joining us for our famous annual “Icewine Weekend”, this year featuring Konzelmann Winery. We will enjoy an afternoon tour of the winery, where we will be introduced to “Vertical Vine Training”, “Rieger” stainless steel tanks, perfect for fermenting white wines, and their sophisticated “Vino Top Fermenter” method for red wines. Following the tour we will have a unique opportunity to taste some of Herbert’s infamous Icewines, including the 2007 Vidal Icewine which won the Grand Gold medal at the 43rd VinItaly International Wine Competition last April where it was up against more than 3,500 wines from 34 countries. Dinner will also take place at the winery. Accommodations will be at White Oaks Resort & Spa, just off the QEW at Glendale Avenue. As part of our package the use of all the resorts amenities, such as valet parking, the fitness and racquet club and wireless internet access,are all included. We will also enjoy an extensive breakfast buffet Sunday morning. Admission is $390 per couple for members; $425 per couple for non-members. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-921 9798, e-mail yvonnken@pathcom.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

Truffle Getaway in Provence will be held from January 31 to February 6 in Goult, Provence. Join Culinary Getaways in Provence for a culinary week focused on truffles. During the Getaway, you will go on a truffle hunt with a farmer and his dog, cook with a French chef, enjoy the markets and villages of Provence and dine on truffle meals in some of the finest restaurants. Admission is 4000 USD based on double occupancy, 4400 USD for single occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-518-7107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://culinarygetaways.com//getaways/?gid=57.

Wine tasting dinner with Marchese Piero Antinori will be held from February 1 to February 2 at 6:30 p.m. at Michael's on East in Sarasota, Florida. Marchese Piero Antinori is the Honored Guest at the Grapes for Humanity U.S., Inc. gala dinner in Sarasota, Florida. Marchese has donated some of his finest wines to the dinner. Marchese Piero Antinori is an honorary director of Grapes for Humanity, U.S., Inc. Admission is $350 per ticket. Proceeds go to Lavalla School and Orphanage for disabled children in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, The Boys and Girls Club of Sarasota, and the Oak Park School for disabled children in Sarasota, Florida.
For information, call Arlene Willis at 800-2181422, e-mail lifeiswine@aol.com or visit http://www.grapesforhumanityus.com.

The Ontario Wine Society's Sumptuous Wine and Seductive Chocolate will be held February 2 6:30pm reception, 7:00pm tasting at CUCCI Ristorante, 119 Jones ave. in Oakville, Ontario. This wine-and-chocolate-tasting event will be led by Sue-Ann Staff, proprietor of Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery located on her family’s 200-year-old estate in Jordan, and winemaster for John Howard Cellars of Distinction producing the Megalomaniac brand in Vineland. Sue-Ann has become one of Canada’s top winemakers, winning over 450 national and international wine awards. The Ontario Wine Society voted Sue Ann as “2002 Winemaker of the Year”. Admission is Members and first guest: $35 each. Addition guests and non-members: $45 each. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-921 9798, e-mail contact@ontariowinesociety.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

Days of Wine and Chocolate will be held from February 6 to February 28 at 11 am to 5 pm at Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Days of Wine & Chocolate 2010 Weekends in February: February 6/7, 13/14, 20/21, 27/28 Warm up your winter with this match made in heaven! Explore pairings of two of your favourite indulgences – wine and chocolate, as you tour the 22 Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake in February. Each stop will feature a premium VQA wine matched to a decadent chocolate selection, from classic flavours to unexpected surprises. A romantic celebration for two or a great girls’ getaway weekend! Tour Passes are $30 per person (plus applicable taxes) and can be used any of the four weekends. Passes can be purchased at any of our 22 wineries, online at www.niagaraonthelake.com or by phone through the Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber of Commerce at 905-468-1950. Admission is $30 per person (plus applicable taxes). For information, call Lynn Maceira at 905-468-1950, e-mail lynn@aldersonandco.ca or visit http://www.niagaraonthelake.com.

Terroirs & Signatures de Bourgogne 2010 will be held February 8 in Calgary, Alberta. The Burgundy Wine Board (BIVB) offers to discover the Burgundy experience by participating in a training seminar and walk-around wine tasting on February 8th in Calgary. Burgundy wines, with their 2000 years of history offer a vast range of wines, able to suit all the moment of consumption and satisfy even the most astute consumers. 14 producers and wine merchants will be presenting wines on their own table and on the Exhibitors’ Choice Tables. The training seminar, “Discovering Burgundy wines”, will provide you with the fundamentals on Burgundy wines, bringing together theoretical knowledge and tastings, to better understand the specifics which make Burgundy wines unique. Admission is Free, trade-only event. For information, call Constance Lozet at +33-147424810, e-mail lozetc@fleishman.com or visit http://www.burgundytasting-canada.fr/index.html.

Wine 101 Toronto will be held February 9 from 6pm-9pm at Arcadian Court, Simpson Tower, 8th floor, 401 Bay Street in Toronto, ON. Love Wine? Want to know more? Join us on February 9th for a fun, friendly, interactive evening of wine discovery and tasting. Admission is $55 per person. For information, call Kristy Colina at 416-365.5767, e-mail kristy.colina@lcbo.com.

Sapori d’Inverno: Canadian Terroir meets Italian Wines will be held February 9 in Ottawa, Ontario. Admission is $45 menu, $65 with wine pairings. For information, call David Mollica at 613- 523 9595, e-mail info@vinumnovum.com or visit http://www.napofood.ca.

Wine Down Wednesday will be held February 10 at The Wine Loft in Long Branch, New Jersey. Every Wednesday please join us from 5:00 - 7:00 PM for a complimentary wine tasting. A local or national wine representative will be on hand to present wines for tasting. Please come by, taste some wines and enjoy the experience. Admission is Free. For information, call Michael Triola at 732-222-7770, e-mail mtriola@thewineloft.net or visit http://thewineloftnjpier.com.

Zagreb Wine Festival will be held from February 12 to February 13 at 10 am - 7 pm at Museum of Arts and Crafts in Zagreb, Croatia. The two day gala event will gather up to 550 differently assorted Croatian and foreign wines as well as showcasing the winners of the Decanter golden medals from Croatia. For an educational sense; expert lectures, special degustations and cooking shows can be seen and heard whilst sampling. Festival will be attended by the Vice-President of the Institute of Masters of Wine, Mrs Lynne Sherriff and the Assistant to Director General of OIV, Mr Yann Juban from Paris. Journalists from Decanter, The Independent, Falstaff, BBC Good Food Magazine, Gambero Rosso have already confirmed their arrival. Admission is ticket price: 150 kn . For information, call Irina Ban vukosavic at 00 385-99 222 1561, e-mail irina.ban@1001delicija.com or visit http://zagrebwinegourmet.com.

Julia Child Tribute will be held from February 18 to February 18 at 6:30pm at Mission Hill Family Estate in West Kelowna, BC. Chef Batey pays tribute to the legend that introduced "French Cooking to Americans." Through her many different forms of teaching and unabashed style, Julia Child forged and transformed the way a cuisine could be demystified and executed at home. Chef Batey picks his favourite recipes from Julia's books, TV shows and movies. For more information on this class or the additional winter culinary classes hosted by our chefs, please visit www.missionhillwinery.com or call 250-768-6483. Admission is $79 per class plus applicable taxes.

New York Ice Wine festival will be held February 20 from 12 noon to 7 pm at Casa Larga Vineyards in Fairport, New York. The event is a celebration of New York State’s award winning Ice Wines. Guests will enjoy an interactive and intimate experience including: NY State Ice Wine tastings, gourmet food stations, live music, seminars, winery tours, live ice carving demonstrations, strolling entertainers, outdoor deck and ice bar. Admission is $35 advance and $45 door. For information, call Nicole Mahoney at 585-223-4210, e-mail nmahoney@frontiernet.net or visit http://www.casalarga.com/IceWineFestival.

The Rodeo Uncorked! Roundup and Best Bites Competition will be held February 21 6:00 p.m. at Reliant Center in Houston, Texas. The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo presents The Rodeo Uncorked! Roundup and Best Bites Competition, Sunday, February 21, 2010 in the Reliant Center Halls D and E. You can sample the International Competition's award-winning wines and enjoy signature bites from Houston-area top chefs. Admission is $100 per ticket OR $1,800.00 per table of 10. Proceeds go to The Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo was organized for the youth of the future for charitable, educational and scientific purposes. For information, call Lisa Ward at 713-667.1000, e-mail lward214@aol.com.

The Ontario Wine Society's Annual Dinner will be held February 24 6:30pm reception, 7:00pm dinner at The Chefs' House, 215 King St. East in Toronto, Ontario. The Chefs' House is in a 3,200 square foot heritage brownstone. The new restaurant serves up one-of-a-kind dining experiences to the city’s food lovers while providing George Brown Chef School students with the latest in real-world culinary training. Founded in 2003 by Harald Thiel and family, Hidden Bench focuses on Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling. They also produce limited quantities of a white Meritage, Nuit Blanche, and two distinct red blends, Terroir Caché, and, the super premium, La Brunante. Admission is Members and first guest: $80 each. Addition guests and non-members: $90 each. For information, call Ken Burford at 416-921 9798, e-mail contact@ontariowinesociety.com or visit http://www.ontariowinesociety.com.

Mission Emp-Possible will be held February 24 6:30 pm at The Fairmont Empress in Victoria, British Columbia. Join us as we embark on an epicurean journey with Executive Chef, Takashi Ito of The Fairmont Empress, who will challenge Mission Hill Executive Winery Chef, Matthew Batey, in a “battle-of-the-chefs” competition. Each Chef will prepare a decadent five-course tasting menu paired with five exquisite wines personally selected and presented by Mission Hill’s chief winemaker, John Simes. Admission is $150 per person, plus taxes and gratuities. For information, call Janelle Donn at 250-389-2727, e-mail jdonn@markanthony.com.

Parksville Uncorked will be held from February 25 to February 28 at 6pm - 9pm at Tigh Na Mara Seaside Spa Resort in Parksville, BC. Parksville Uncorked ~ Wine & Food Festival ~ Feb. 25 - 28, 2010
Enjoy this weekend long festival featuring "Swirl" with 25 of BC's top wineries paired with decadent gourmet tapas followed by a four winemakers dinners including: Burrrowing Owl; Mission Hill; Cedar Creek and Averill Creek vineyards. The festival finishes off with two effervescent options: Bubbles and Brunch and Bubbles on the Beach. Visit www.parksvilleuncorked.com for details and locations. Admission is $29 - $99. For information, call Luba Plotnikoff at 250-248-6300 x3, e-mail luba@oceansidetourism.com.

Culinary Getaway in Napa Valley will be held from February 26 to February 28 at in Yountville, California. Join Sherry Page for a weekend Culinary Getaway in Napa Valley. During the weekend, you will cook together in a gorgeous winery using the finest in fresh, local ingredients, dine in local restaurants and in private settings and taste some of the regional specialties, such as cheeses and olive oil. Admission is 1200 USD per person based on double occupancy, 1500 USD for single occupancy. For information, call Sherry Page at 415-518-7107, e-mail sherry@culinarygetaways.com or visit http://culinarygetaways.com//getaways/?gid=58.

Hands on Harvest will be held from February 27 to February 28 at 10 - 2 at Robertson, South Africa in Cape Town, Western Cape. Windfall Wine is at this years Hands on Harvest. Get to meet the wine maker, taste our brandy, wines made on the farm paired with canape's as well as Chelsea buns made from the first stages of wine making, an age old tradition in the area! Come and join us! Admission is R50.00. For information, call Bianca Weingartz at +2721 -6854540, e-mail bee@windfallwine.co.za.

8th Annual Pinot Noir Summit will be held February 27 from noon-8:30 PM at Osher Marin Jewish Community Center in San Rafael, California. The day long Pinotcentric events includes a blind tasting of 40 top Pinots in a blind tasting, educational workshops. the Pinot Noir Summit Awards Ceremony, and a Grand Tasting of over 100 wines with an array of food…an opportunity to meet and talk with winemakers (David Bruce, Anthony Austin, Ted Elliott, Paul Clifton to name a few) and discover what makes this grape into extraordinary wine.

We have some great food too! It's not dinner but you won't go away hungry. http://budurl.com/wkmn Admission is $125 per person for all activities - $75 for Grand Tasting only . Proceeds go to Ticket sales benefit Palm Drive Health Care Foundation in support of Palm Drive Hospital, located in the heart of some of the best Pinot Noir in the world - the Russian River and the Sonoma Coast. For information, call Barbara Drady at 707-874-1975, e-mail barbaa@affairsofthevine.com or visit http://www.pinotnoirsummit.com.

100 Mile Diet will be held March 2 at 6:30pm at 1730 Mission Hill Road in West Kelowna, BC. Living in the Okanagan Valley, one could not be more fortunate and able to cook from within a '100 mile' area. Chef Bennett is a native of this rich agricultural area and will show you just how readily available local products are and how much better they really do taste coming from our own back yard. Come and enjoy Duck Prosciutto, Enderby Trout, Forest Mushroom Bisque, Nicola Valley Bison Flat Iron and Sugarpie Pumpkin Cake. For more information on this class or the additional winter culinary classes hosted by our chefs, please visit www.missionhillwinery.com or call 250-768-6483. Admission is $79 per class plus applicable taxes.