The Ontario grape and wine industry is gearing up for the province’s largest showcase of VQA excellence.

Returning to Niagara for its 35th year, Cuvée is a weekend-long celebration with proceeds supporting the future of the industry through grape and wine scholarships and research initiatives at Brock University.

Hosted by the University’s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI), the event is centred on the Grand Tasting — the largest celebration of VQA wine of its kind — where industry professionals and wine enthusiasts will indulge in a curated selection of vintages from Ontario’s top winemakers.

The Grand Tasting takes place Saturday, May 24 at 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Centre in St. Catharines.

“We are proud to organize a unique and highly anticipated event that showcases true Ontario quality,” says CCOVI Director Debbie Inglis. “Ontario wines are among the best in the world, and our winemakers in attendance will unveil their personal favourites for guests to enjoy.”

Barb Tatarnic, who oversees the event, adds that while Cuvée has obvious appeal for wine lovers, it isn’t just for them.

Food enthusiasts will also experience a unique journey, with 10 live cooking stations featuring gourmet cuisine and elegant desserts that complement the evening’s wines, she says.

“We will have nearly 100 of the top wines from Ontario’s award-winning winemakers and some of the most delicious food pairings that our celebrated Niagara chefs can dream up. It’s a recipe for an unforgettable night,” Tatarnic says. “There is no better time than now to celebrate the Ontario wine and food scene. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, this would make the perfect gift for that special someone in your life.”

The night also features the Après Cuvée after party with live music and additional tastings of VQA wines as well as selections from local micro-breweries and cideries.

“Guests can dance the night away with our live band, which will be announced soon, and enjoy a selection of local craft beer, ciders, sparkling wine and Icewine,” says Tatarnic.

While the Grand Tasting is a Cuvée highlight, those looking to expand the celebration can participate in the Cuvée En Route Passport program, which runs from Friday, May 23 to Sunday, May 25.

With a Cuvée passport, guests can visit Niagara wineries and taste exclusive wines. The passport is included in the Grand Tasting ticket or can be purchased separately.

A special rate of $225 per Grand Tasting ticket is available until Tuesday, Feb. 18 using the promotional price ticket option on the Cuvée website.

Ticket options are also available for groups of six to nine people or 10 and more.