The Countdown to the Vancouver International Wine Festival is on!
For the first time, the Vancouver International Wine Festival is featuring an entire continent as its theme region! The spotlight shines on the wines of South America this April, with forty-four wineries representing four countries – Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay – participating in a variety of events throughout the festival week. All 44 South American wineries will be featured in a special section conveniently located next to the onsite BCLIQUOR store. You’ll discover some hidden gems at a dedicated South America Tasting Station, where you’ll be guided by a wine expert who will present several wines from the region.
Let’s look at what tickets are still available for the Vancouver International Wine Festival as these events are selling out fast!
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, April 28, 29, 30: International Festival Tasting
The Wine World is Here!
If you attend only one of the festival’s events, make it the Vancouver International Wine Festival Tasting. The Tasting Room at the Vancouver Convention Centre is the heart of the festival, where all 147 participating wineries and their principals gather to pour their select wines. Discover exciting new wines, or return to your favourites, sipping from premium wine glasses. The room will also feature wine and food-related exhibitors, and Regional Tasting Stations featuring wines from California, New Zealand, Rioja, South America, and sparkling wines from around the world.
Tuesday, April 25: Fiesta del Vino (Wine Mingler)
Both festival themes – wines from South America and sparkling wines from around the world – take centre stage at this festive wine party. Enjoy a selection of still and sparkling wines, accompanied by Latin American-themed music and light bites.
Wednesday, April 26: A Night with Marques de Riscal
One of the world’s best vineyards, Marqués de Riscal lives by wine and lives for wine. Join Brand Ambassador Jose Luis Maguro Jr. at this perfectly paired dinner dedicated to the shared love of wine. The Vancouver International Wine Festival evening begins with canapés on arrival, followed by a four-course dinner exquisitely prepared by the team at Homer St. Cafe and Bar.
Wednesday, April 26: Best of Uruguay: Bodega Garzón (Winery Dinner)
Discover the Southern hemisphere’s best-kept secret as you savour some of Uruguay’s most distinctive wines, with a spectacular menu from Hydra’s culinary team.
Wednesday, April 26: California Wine & Taco Party
Taco and California Wine lovers unite! Creative incarnations of the taco inspired by the Golden State will be paired with California wines and the Vancouver International Wine Festival at this mid-week party, creating a vibrant atmosphere where tacos and wines meet and become a match made in heaven.
Thursday, April 27: The Shape of Wine
How does the glass amplify the wine? Join Riedel’s Regional Manager Alysha Harker as she guides you on a journey through your senses. Discover how glass shape changes your wine experience as you sample Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon in Riedel Veloce glassware. The set of glasses are yours to take home (a $178 value)!
Friday, April 28, California Wines, Eureka in the Glass
Discover for yourself how California’s diverse terrain comes alive in your glass. Learn how California’s landscape and climate shape the Golden State and its wines. Each wine will explore a different aspect of California from the coastline to the mountains, with a local wine expert leading you through the tasting. Explore signature varietals and top drops from winery legends in this journey through California.
Friday, April 28, The Global Cru
While the term “Cru” is most often used for the French classification system, the “Cru” concept can apply to any vineyard or group of vineyards recognized for their superior quality. This seminar will take participants on a global journey to some of the wine world’s greatest vineyards to discover what makes their terroir and wines so special. Learn more with the Vancouver International Wine Festival.
Saturday, April 29: Sabor Sudamericano (Grazing Lunch)
All participating South American wineries will gather for a grazing lunch that celebrates their wine and food culture, set against the stunning North Shore backdrop. Enjoy wines from forty-four different wineries on this continental food and wine journey.
Saturday, April 29: La Crema de la Crema (Wine Seminar)
Discover South America’s wow factor through the prism of some of the continent’s most exceptional wines. Explore these southern gems with Anthony Gismondi, Master Sommelier Evan Goldstein, and the participating vine stars.
Sunday, April 30: Spring Fling
Celebrate spring with brunch-worthy wines from around the world. This finale of the 2023 Vancouver International Wine Festival features a grazing buffet, live music, and a spectacular selection of reds, whites, and rosés from Canada, Chile, Greece, Italy, Spain, and the United States.
