IVSA @Sam_TheWineTeacher New Product Salon

What is the IVSA?  Most likely, you’ve never heard of them before, but you should be very glad they exist. When was the last time you were introduced to an interesting new beer, wine or liquor?  Was it at a pub, a lounge, a restaurant or in a liquor store?  Then you can thank the IVSA.

 

The Import Vintners and Spirits Association (IVSA) is a group representing over one hundred and twenty Canadian, alcohol import agents.  They formed in 1975 to have a cohesive voice to communicate with the provincial government and the BC Liquor Distribution Branch.  In 2009, they expanded to include Alberta and are now the largest such group in the country.

 

 

During the year, they host product salons to feature new alcoholic beverages.  Events are held in Calgary, Edmonton, Victoria and in Vancouver at the Four Seasons Hotel.  Producers from around the world come looking for agents to represent their line in Canada.  Agents are also in attendance pitching their products to liquor stores, restaurants and hotels.  Open to those who work in the hospitality industry and the media.

 

 

It’s a great venue to see what’s new on the market and to see where trends are heading, be it summer sippers or holiday spirits.   Pink port?  Wines from new regions and producers, organic gin flavoured with coriander, angelica root, and savoy, gluten free beer, pumpkin flavoured ale, honey porter or chocolate stout?  It’s all here.

 

 

In addition, the organization maintains an industry ‘Job Postings’ on their web site and sponsors the BC Hospitality Foundation.  BCHF helps those who suffer financial hardship due to health concerns and provides scholarships for people entering the industry.  They collect donations for this worthwhile charity at every new product event.

 

Some industry names that may be familiar to some people include:

Burrows, Luongo & Associates

Crush Imports

Liberty Wine Imports

Icon Wine and Spirits

International Cellars

Mark Anthony Wine Merchants

Pacific Wine and Spirits

Renaissance Wine Merchants

The Bacchus Group

Vintage West Wine Marketing

 

I recently attended their fall release.  Here are a few standouts from that event.

Glass Mountain 2013 Chardonnay

At only $13.99 this is a great value.  A more subdued version of a typical California Chardonnay.  This is a ‘spec’ wine so get in touch with Dick (dick.doorman@nullglazers.com) or Karin (karin.whale@nullglazers.com) to find out where you can buy some.

Laughing Bird 2013 Chardonnay

Another great value Chardonnay, this time from Australia.  Again, not what you’d expect from the region.  Dry, clean and refreshing, much like a Pinot Grigio and only $11.99.  Available at BCLDB stores.

Mud House 2012 Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc

It’s easy to see how this wine has won gold, Classic New Zealand Sauvignon at only $19.99.  Be sure to give it a try.  Available at BCLDB stores.

El Esteco 2011 Don David Finca La Maravilla #6 Malbec

Much better balanced than most Argentinian Malbecs. Wine Enthusiast scored it at 92 points.  Good value at $19.99.  Available for a short time at BCLDB stores.

Mascota 2009 Unanime Gran Vino Tinto

A complex nose and brimming with flavour.  No wonder it got gold at the International Wine Challenge.  An excellent wine priced at $29.99.  A one time BCLDB buy for Christmas.

Serafino 2012 Cabernet Sauvignon

James Halliday gave this wine 94 points.  It has a classic Cabernet Sauvignon nose and packed with flavour.  A great buy at $27.99.  The BCLDB carries the Shiraz, but not the Cab.  Check with the folks at Burrows Luongo (info@nullburrowsluongo.com) to find out where you can buy this wine.