Valerie van der Gracht 
Recently I was invited to join a group of bloggers from Western Canada for the chance to drive the vehicles in the fleet of Ford Canada SUVs.The idea was to showcase not only the Ford vehicles but to show the Sunshine Coast in the best light. As they say best laid plans… So what happens … Read more
Grand Marnier brings back the past with their Cordon Rouge Room tours. Following success in Toronto and Montreal, the “Speakeasy” came to Vancouver to re-introduce us to their tasty liqueur and it’s many different ways to enjoy. It started with an invitation to an exclusive, sensory experience at The Cordon Rouge Room Speakeasy on … Read more
In September I was touring Kelowna and I was thrilled to be able to include a visit to the home of Doug and Dawn Reimer to taste their three Mirabel wines. The Reimer family is originally from Winnipeg and more recently from West Vancouver where they raised three sons. The South East Kelowna … Read more
There are still at least a few weeks of great Okanagan travel time left this season so I wanted to share my experience visiting Kelowna. This is an overview and just a sampling of the wonderful possibilities waiting for you in Kelowna. Kelowna became a city in 1905 and during the 50’s through 70’s was … Read more
With thanks to the Naramata Bench Winery Association for inviting me (+ one) to join them for the annual Naramata Tailgate Party held at Red Rooster Winery in Penticton celebrating the harvest. Tailgate Party tickets included shuttles from Penticton and Naramata. The theme for the Naramata Tailgate party was “back to our roots” and guests … Read more
Last night I was one of a large group of media hosted by Burpee at a dinner held at local restaurant Burdock & Co with garden therapy‘s Stephanie Rose as the guest speaker. Stephanie spoke about her passion for gardening and how it developed into her blog garden therapy where you can find all sorts … Read more
The Wines of British Columbia, a non-profit organization that promotes BC VQA wines, put together an exceptional event. The Chef meets BC Grape Okanagan Wine and Food Experience – Taste of the Okanagan held on Saturday, August 26th was a huge success. The day started with a VIP Reception held on the patio adjoining the … Read more
On Sunday, August 27th a group of dedicated foodies and wine lovers congregated in the Tasting Room at Hester Creek for Chef meets BC Grape Okanagan Wine & Food Experience – Bubbles and Brunch at Terrafina at Hester Creek by RauDZ. The morning started with a choice of BC VQA Okanagan Valley wines; Hester Creek … Read more
The Piemonte region is one of my favourites having visited there in September of 2013. Many of the dishes were familiar favourites but with the distinct signature of Chef Josh Gonneau. The five course Piemonte inspired dinner was paired with a wonderful selection of wines. We were given an overview of the region, terroir, and … Read more
The “Icons of Wine & Food Dinner” for Chef meets BC Grape Okanagan Wine & Food Experience at The Sonora Room at Burrowing Owl Estate Winery was one of the best wine pairing dinners I have had the opportunity to attend. On Friday, August 25, 2017, the Sonora Room and patio became the setting for … Read more