Since its inception in 2014, the Victoria International Wine Festival has been a highlight on the calendars of the city’s wine lovers.
The 2019 edition makes a return to the spacious Parkside Hotel and Spa from Sept. 19-21, with a packed weekend of conversation, seminars and of course, tastings, on the schedule. With engaging and educated sommeliers available to answer questions, plus liquor sales on site, it’s a perfect opportunity to expand your expertise as well as your wine collection.
The focus of the festival has always been to make wine more accessible for the average consumer; exciting their palate and increasing their knowledge without breaking the bank. A board of knowledgeable sommeliers have handpicked wineries and suppliers from around the world to showcase the very best of their wares.
With wineries from New Zealand, Germany, Spain and Portugal in the mix, as well as many Canadian favourites such as Okanagan Crush Pad (Haywire, Narrative) and The Hatch (Screaming Frenzy, Black Swift), the choice is varied. Whether you’re searching for an interesting white, your new favourite red, or wishing to explore rosés; chances are you’ll find your ambrosia and more.
Bottles start popping on the Thursday (Sept. 19) with a VIP Bubbles Bash, followed by Friday’s evening Tasting Session, and two sessions on Saturday at 3 and 7 p.m.
This year’s seminars cover pairings for Bubbles and Cheese, the wines of Argentina and also include a panel discussion on Women in Wine. Super Passes for the whole event are $200, while the tasting sessions run $85 each, plus taxes and fees. Often a sellout event, the festival is sure to enjoy another vintage year in 2019.
– Rae Porter
editor@mondaymag.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter