This week I am going to introduce you to four companies who have participated in several Oakville Wine Enthusiasts Club (OWEC) events over the past year or so including the recent esoterica Wine Fair.
Kolonaki Group, who just presented wines to OWEC at the April monthly meeting, brought even more varieties of wine to sample at esoterica. Kir-Yianni Paranga from the Macedonia wine region in Northwestern Greece is a blend of Merlot, Xinomavro, and Syrah. Xinomavro (pictured above) is an indigenous Greek varietal and one of the noblest in the area. “Xino” means sour or acid, and “-mavro” means black. Paranga is an easy-drinking red wine with good acidity which makes a great match for vegetarian dishes, pasta, and barbecue.
You may remember reading about F. Alonzi Wines and Spirits Inc. and their wonderful wine pairings with risotto at the OWEC Wine and More event last April. Based out of Concord, Ontario, they work with wineries making fine Italian wines and also import rice, oils, and marmalades from various regions of Italy.
Victorica Wines at esoterica Wine FairVictorica Wines at esoterica Wine Fair
Photo Credit: © C. Silversides
Victorica Wines gave a great presentation to OWEC last February along with a slide show featuring the wine region of San Juan, Argentina. For the fair they brought more wine from a small organic vineyard in San Juan, Buenas Ondas - Spanish translation: being in a good mood.
For a change of pace, Highlander Brew Co. from the Almaguin Highlands in South River, Ontario, was sampling their beers. I am quite fond of their Blacksmith Smoked Porter which I first tasted at the OWEC Barbecue in 2013. With notes of dark chocolate and espresso, this porter is a good match for stews, game, and dark chocolate! Highlander also has some awesome looking marinades and recipes on their website. Cheers!