Question 1

What is a Wine Tasting Club?

Accepted Answer

Quite simply, a wine tasting club organizes events where members (and guests) can sample a flight of wines that have been selected to explore a specific theme. The theme could be based on a region (eg. Burgundy, Bordeaux), a grape varietal (eg. Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir), or a specific winemaker (eg. Chateau Ste. Michelle, Hidden Bench) etc - any theme that the Board thinks would make an interesting experience.

Question 2

How do the tastings work?

Accepted Answer

We taste samples of 8 wines in a "blind" format. That means you will not know exactly what you are tasting until you have had a chance to sample all the wines and rank your preferences on an evaluation sheet. A guest speaker provides more insight and information about the wines or the wine-growing region. At the end of the tasting we reveal what the wines were and share the group's and guest's scores.

Question 3

What if I don't know anything about wine?

Accepted Answer

Then this Wine Club is for you! Our events allow you to learn in a fun and relaxed setting. There are no right or wrong answers when it comes to wine. Everyone experiences wine differently due to their own individual palates. By attending our tastings you will learn what you like and use that information for your own wine-buying in the future. We also offer a "Newcomers' Table" with an experienced taster who will help guide you through the tasting. You can sign up for the Newcomers' Table as often as you like.

Question 4

I am not sure I want to commit to a membership. How can I check out the club?

Accepted Answer

We totally understand. You can attend an event as a non-member which is at the premium to the members' rate. Then if you decide to join within 3 weeks of that event we will apply the premium you paid toward your membership fee. Our membership director will be in touch after your first event to see if you would like to join.

Question 5

How much do the events cost?

Accepted Answer

Each event typically costs between $110-$150 per member. Non-members/guests can attend, space permitting, at a premium (up to 40%). Price includes wine and light appetizers.

Question 6

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We will provide a full refund for any cancellations up to 7 days prior to an event and 50% refund between 7-3 days prior to an event. There is no refund for cancellations 3 days or less prior to the event, unless the event is sold out and the tickets can be sold to someone on the waitlist.

Question 7

Do you sell the wines that are being tasted?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately we are not permitted to sell wine. That said, most of the wines in our tastings are sourced through the LCBO and local wine import agencies, so if you find a wine you truly enjoy, you might be able to track down a different vintage of the same wine. Occasionally our guest speaker is a wine-import agent or winemaker who would be more than happy to assist you.

Question 8

Is The TVC Club affiliated with a winery or business involved with producing or selling wine?

Accepted Answer

No. We are totally independent of any wine-related business. This means that our buyers can buy any wine from any producer and do not have any conflicts of interest or implicit biases. This neutrality allows us to buy and experience wine from anywhere in the world.

Question 9

Do you have a wine cellar or inventory?

Accepted Answer

Yes. TVC has built up an extensive wine cellar over the years. We store many of our wines for years. This gives our members the opportunity to taste wines that have aged and to appreciate the characteristics of a wine that is 5, 10, 15 or more years older than what they can buy right now.

Question 10

Who are the typical members that join Toronto Vintners?

Accepted Answer

Anyone and everyone who enjoys wine or who wants to learn more about wine can join the club. Our membership comes from diverse backgrounds and is inclusive. What we all share is a love of wine and good food. Great friendships have been made at the Toronto Vintners Club. Is there a better way to meet people who share your interest in wine?

Question 11

What is the cost to join and is there an initiation fee?

Accepted Answer

All our membership fees are outlined on our Membership Page. There is no initiation fee.

Question 12

What is the purpose of the Membership Fee?

Accepted Answer

Membership fees help cover administrative costs such as wine storage, insurance, and general administrative expenses. This keeps the cost of tasting events low and supports our wine buying program. As a not-for-profit corporation any excess revenue is applied to the purchase of wine and holding events for our members.

Question 13

Are Members required to attend every event?

Accepted Answer

You can come to as many or as few events as you like. By having a membership you will always get advance notice and preferred pricing for every event. Some events sell out quickly, so it is worth it to get the early notice and be able to sign up before the event sells out.

Question 14

Can you accommodate dietary requirements?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We cater to vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary requirements. Just leave a comment when you sign up for an event to let us know what you need, and we will customize the food for you — no problem at all.

Question 15

Why do people score and rank the wines?

Accepted Answer

We score and rank the wines according to which wines we like best to the ones we like the least. It's done for fun but also helps you remember which wines you prefer in case there's a chance to purchase wines like them in the future. Each table tallies the scores of its participants and the table scores are compiled to produce an overall group ranking - each tasting event tracks these scores for future reference.

Question 16

How can I attend an event if I am not a member?

Accepted Answer

Anyone can attend an event, space permitting, at the guest/non-member rate which is at a premium to the member rate (up to 40%). As soon as an event goes "live" on the website, click on "Register/Buy Tickets" to sign up for the tasting. Tastings must be paid in full in advance in order to secure your place. We do not sell tickets at the door.

Question 17

Where does Toronto Vintners meet?

Accepted Answer

Most of our events are held at the University of Toronto's Faculty Club (downtown) at 41 Willcocks Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 1C7. The Faculty Club is easily reached via streetcar from Spadina subway station (just south of Harbord St).

Question 18

Do you sell tickets at the door?

Accepted Answer

No, we cannot sell tickets at the door. To purchase tickets in advance, go to the Events page and click on the appropriate link.

Question 19

Can I get a refund if I am unable to attend an event?

Accepted Answer

Ticket sales/registrations are final. However, if the event is completely sold out and we are able to sell the ticket to someone on the waiting list, then we will issue a refund.

Question 20

Can I bring a guest to an event?

Accepted Answer

Guests and non-members are welcome to attend all of our events. However, non-members pay a higher fee for each event they attend. Please Note: All tickets are sold in advance - please see the specific event page to order tickets on behalf of your guest.

Question 21

What time do events start?

Accepted Answer

Tastings usually start at 6:00 PM with a reception wine. The formal tasting part of the evening starts at around 6:25 or 6:30.

Question 22

Do you serve food with the wines?

Accepted Answer

Bread is always provided to cleanse palates, and light appetizers are served with the wines. Occasionally, we also organize specific food and wine-paired dinners.

Question 23

How long does a tasting last?

Accepted Answer

Tastings usually run 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. If people need to leave early, they do. Or, feel free to linger after the tasting and chat about the wines.

Question 24

What should I wear to a TVC event?

Accepted Answer

Our location usually has a dress code of "business casual". Ties and jackets are not required. Please avoid wearing scented products to a wine event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions and answers