As the year winds down, what better way to celebrate than with the effervescence of champagne? On a crisp November evening, the Toronto Vintners Club and the Winetasters of Toronto joined forces to host a spectacular sit-down event dedicated to grower-producer champagnes. This exclusive evening showcased the versatility of champagne, proving it can shine not only as a reception wine but also as the perfect companion to a multi-course dinner. For many attendees, it was a delightful revelation that champagne pairs wonderfully with nearly any dish. Here’s a closer look at this unforgettable evening.
Guests were greeted with glasses of Frédéric Savart L’Ouverture Blanc de Noirs Premier Cru Brut, an exceptional champagne crafted in the Montagne de Reims region. Known for its distinctive terroir and chalky soils, the estate’s focus on limited-production, artisanal champagnes is evident in every sip. L’Ouverture Blanc de Noirs dazzles with notes of crisp green apple, lemon zest, and subtle brioche, underscored by a refreshing minerality and fine mousse.
The unique twist? Guests compared the same champagne from two bottle formats: a standard 750ml bottle and a magnum. The magnum’s slower aging process brought out a richer complexity and creamier texture, while the standard bottle offered a brighter and more vibrant profile. This interactive tasting sparked lively discussions among attendees as they discovered their personal preferences.
The structured sit-down format allowed guests to fully immerse themselves in the art of pairing champagne with an array of dishes. The event was divided into three flights, each featuring a curated selection of grower-producer champagnes paired with thoughtfully crafted hors d’oeuvres and desserts.
First Flight: All About Chardonnay
- Wines:
- NV Philippe Gonet 3210 Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut
- NV R.H. Coutier Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru Brut
- 2018 Le Brun de Neuville Grand Vintage Brut
- 2012 Mandois Cuvée Victor Vieilles Vignes Brut Millésime
- Pairings:
- Smoked salmon and cream cheese crostini with lemon capers
- Jumbo shrimp with fresh lemon and cocktail sauce
- Diced ahi tuna marinated in sesame and soy sauce on wonton crisps
This flight highlighted the elegance and precision of Chardonnay-based champagnes, with their bright acidity and creamy textures complementing the seafood-inspired hors d’oeuvres beautifully.
Second Flight: Now Add a Little Something
- Wines:
- NV Coessens Largillier Blanc de Noirs Brut
- NV A.D. Coutelas 1809 Brut
- NV J-M Sélèque ‘Solessence’ Extra Brut
- Pairings:
- Double cream brie, Gouda, and Stilton with fig relish on crostini
- Korean mushroom skewers
- Vegetable spring rolls with sweet chili dip
This flight showcased Pinot Noir’s depth and versatility, with its red fruit notes and structural richness enhancing the earthy and savory elements of the dishes.
Third Flight: How About Some Colour?
- Wines:
- NV Rémi Leroy Rosé
- NV R.H. Coutier Grand Cru Brut Rosé
- Pairings:
- Mini molten lava cake with triple berry coulis
- Chocolate-dipped strawberries
The evening ended on a high note with rosé champagnes, whose vibrant berry flavors and balanced acidity paired decadently with the rich, chocolate-based desserts.
Between flights, directors from the Toronto Vintners Club and Winetasters of Toronto shared insights into the grower-producer movement. This 1970s initiative revolutionized the champagne industry by empowering families to craft wines that express their unique philosophies and terroirs. Attendees gained a deeper appreciation for the artistry and passion behind each bottle.
The event was a resounding success, leaving attendees inspired and eager to explore champagne’s versatility further. As one guest aptly put it, “I never realized champagne could pair so seamlessly with so many different dishes.” It was a night to remember and a sparkling way to bid farewell to the year.
For those who believe champagne is solely for toasts, this event proved otherwise. Grower-producer champagnes are as diverse as they are delightful, and with a little creativity, they can elevate any meal. Whether paired with seafood, cheese, or even dessert, champagne deserves a place at every table.
We can’t wait to see what the next collaboration between the Toronto Vintners Club and Winetasters of Toronto will bring. Until then, here’s to raising a glass to champagne’s endless possibilities!
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