Taste BC 2015: Indulging in BC’s food, wine, beer + spirits

 Amongst the many wine events that take place each year, Taste BC is one that has always been a personal favourite of mine to attend. Presented by Liberty Wine Merchants, the 21st annual event was held on Thursday,January 22nd at the Pan Pacific Vancouver hotel. Over the course of a few hours, hundreds of Vancouverites savoured sips and bites from local wineries, breweries, caterers, and restaurants. In a room full of an array of varietals from over 60 different wineries and a selection of spirits, beers, and ciders to sample one had to be strategic in picking what to taste and when as there were lots of distractions. From spoonfuls of authentic ceviche from La Mezcaleria and freshly shucked oysters from Rodney’s to Chef Ann’s Cranberry Onion Confit with Salt Spring Island cheese on hazelnut crisps, those who didn’t go back for a second serving were rare to find. To satisfy the sweet tooth craving, the lovely Emma Smith from Zimt Artisan Chocolates offered a generous selection of raw organic chocolates, perfect to pair with the Port-Style Syrah or Blackberry Port served a few steps away.

As I picked out my top wines for the night while chatting with local chefs and winemakers I couldn’t help but notice how much laughter there was in the room. Everyone was happy, intrigued, and engaged in conversations with those that they came with or those that they have just met – many bonded over their love for BC’s food, wine, beer, or spirits (or a combination of a few). With all proceeds going to the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation (an impressive amount of $214,153 to date) Taste BC is a one-of-a-kind event you will not want to miss out on next year. Check out TasteBC‘s website for more information ad Liberty Wine Merchants – Wine Tasting Events for other upcoming tasting events that benefit local charities.