The Ontario grape and wine industry is gearing up for the province\u2019s largest showcase of VQA excellence.<\/p>\n
Returning to Niagara for its 35th year, Cuv\u00e9e is a weekend-long celebration with proceeds supporting the future of the industry through grape and wine scholarships and research initiatives at Brock University.<\/p>\n
Hosted by the University\u2019s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI), the event is centred on the Grand Tasting \u2014 the largest celebration of VQA wine of its kind \u2014 where industry professionals and wine enthusiasts will indulge in a curated selection of vintages from Ontario\u2019s top winemakers.<\/p>\n
The Grand Tasting<\/a> takes place Saturday, May 24 at 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Centre in St. Catharines.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are proud to organize a unique and highly anticipated event that showcases true Ontario quality,\u201d says CCOVI Director Debbie Inglis. \u201cOntario wines are among the best in the world, and our winemakers in attendance will unveil their personal favourites for guests to enjoy.\u201d<\/p>\n Barb Tatarnic, who oversees the event, adds that while Cuv\u00e9e has obvious appeal for wine lovers, it isn\u2019t just for them.<\/p>\n Food enthusiasts will also experience a unique journey, with 10 live cooking stations featuring gourmet cuisine and elegant desserts that complement the evening\u2019s wines, she says.<\/p>\n \u201cWe will have nearly 100 of the top wines from Ontario\u2019s award-winning winemakers and some of the most delicious food pairings that our celebrated Niagara chefs can dream up. It\u2019s a recipe for an unforgettable night,\u201d Tatarnic says. \u201cThere is no better time than now to celebrate the Ontario wine and food scene. With Valentine\u2019s Day around the corner, this would make the perfect gift for that special someone in your life.\u201d<\/p>\n The night also features the Apr\u00e8s Cuv\u00e9e after party with live music and additional tastings of VQA wines as well as selections from local micro-breweries and cideries.<\/p>\n \u201cGuests 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,\u201d says Tatarnic.<\/p>\n While the Grand Tasting is a Cuv\u00e9e highlight, those looking to expand the celebration can participate in the Cuv\u00e9e En Route Passport program<\/a>, which runs from Friday, May 23 to Sunday, May 25.<\/p>\n With a Cuv\u00e9e passport, guests can visit Niagara wineries and taste exclusive wines. The passport is included in the Grand Tasting ticket or can be purchased separately.<\/p>\n