S P R I N G
2 0 1 4
EVENT CALENDAR A Taste of What’s Inside: Tasting Events An Evening with Top Chef Canada Contestant – Nicole Gomes Fancy France – Bordeaux German Food and Wine with Boreal Cuisine Grape Battles – Sangiovese vs. Tempranillo Library Tasting - Vintage Wines The Pope’s New Castle – An Evening of Châteauneuf-du-Pape Premium Cabernet from Around the World Sniff, Sip, ‘n Swirl – Taste Like a Pro
Great Seasonal Recipes Zesty Quinoa Salad Oeufs en Meurette Profiteroles with Lemon Cream
Tasting Centre Locations Calgary Beddington
8220 Centre Street NE, 403-299-7764
Crowfoot 39 Crowfoot Way NW 403-299-5341
Oakridge
2570 Southland Drive SW 403-299-5444
Shawnessy 80, 250 Shawville Blvd. SE 403-294-1966
Edmonton MacTaggart Ridge 5962 Mullen Way 780-432-2258
Ask an Expert
How to Taste? Wine is like music. Sometimes it hovers in the background, adding simple pleasure and lightening the mood. Sometimes it draws you into its complex layers and becomes an experience. When this happens, you listen closely to the transition of notes and ponder the meaning of the lyrics; you can feel the vibration and it’s inspiring. When we stop to listen to our wine, we can have some very similar experiences. Some wines are not meant to be pondered – rather they’re a friendly and cheerful companion. There are those wines that will speak to you if you stop to listen, and provide you with an unforgettable experience. On the flip side, there are those wines that will speak to you if you stop to listen, and provide you with an unforgettable experience. Sommeliers and wine professionals, by and large, do not have a better sense of smell or taste than you do. What they do have is practice, and they’ve kept a sensory catalogue of those experiences. Here are some tips to taste like a pro and become more involved with all your senses when you taste wine, beer or spirits.
coopwinespiritsbeer.com wsevents@calgarycoop.com 1
Ask an Expert
How to Taste? First, We Look:
On the Nose:
On the Palate:
The clarity, the colour and the intensity of the colour can give clues to the age of the wine, the grape variety or style of wine, and of course the health of the wine. Is there sediment or haze? Does the wine coat your glass or have “long legs”? These are streams of wine you might see on the side of your glass.
Generally speaking, humans have a poor sense of smell in comparison to other species. The scent of a wine gives many clues but is certainly not the be-all and end-all of the experience. The most important part of the nose is to make sure the wine is not faulted. Does it smell like nail polish remover, wet cardboard or rotten eggs? These would be scents of faulted wines. Picking out specific fruit scents and other aromas takes practice. Start by assessing the intensity of the wine. Is it aromatic or is it austere? Is it fruitdriven, or are there secondary, more earth-driven smells. Does the wine smell youthful, or does it smell as though it may be further along in its development?
Let’s face it, this is the best part and the main attraction. Our sense of smell is largely responsible for our sense of taste or flavour. We recommend you swish a little to let the wine touch your entire mouth and to pull air into it. It’s important to get a sense of the texture, or mouthfeel, of the wine. Make note of the initial entrance of the wine. Where do you feel it? You’ll sense sweetness on the tip of your tongue. It will be a sensation of weight or a coating, coming from the residual sugar in the wine. Can you feel tannins? These will wrinkle your gums and lips and dry your mouth out. Balancing the tannins should be some acidity, which has a mouth-watering effect (imagine biting into a lemon). Acidity provides freshness to wine and is tremendously important. It’s most noticeable at the sides of the mouth.
t our Join us a Swirl , ‘n Sniff, Sip event. tasting 5 and 16 See pages s. for detail
2
Evaluation Now that you’ve experienced the wine fully, you can make an assessment. How was the experience? Was there a long lingering and enjoyable finish? Did the glass find its way back to your lips quickly, pointing to a balanced and enjoyable experience? Is the wine of good quality? Will it benefit from further cellaring or aging or is it at its best now? Is this a wine you could drink on its own or would pairing it with an appropriate food highlight the experience? To learn more about getting in touch with your senses, come and join us at our Sniff, Sip, ‘n Swirl tasting event.
3
April Tastings continued on page 6
ABC – Amazing, Buttery Chardonnay There’s a mantra some repeat when choosing wine: ABC, or Anything But Chardonnay. But if you’re anything like us, you feel the exact opposite! How about, “Amazing, Buttery Chardonnay,” instead? With summer fast approaching, these wines will make for decadent wine and food pairings – we’ll show you why, and share our love for these big, rich, oaky and buttery wine styles. Let’s crack open the best we can find on our shelves from all over the world! MacTaggart: April 17, 7-9pm • $25 per person Alsatian Adventure Wines from Alsace can easily be described as the most exotic in France. These wines, from a region of France near the German border that almost exclusively produces white wine, are worth exploring by any enthusiast. Bavarian and French culture combine to create a style that still cannot be matched anywhere in the world. From light and delicate, round and luscious, to full-bodied and rich, there is something here for everyone. Finally, a French wine region that labels by grape variety! Crowfoot: April 25, 7-9pm • $25 per person Border Beer Wars – Germany vs. Belgium Our Border Beer Wars series continues in what may be the ultimate beer showdown. Central Europe is the motherland of many traditional and classic beer styles often imitated around the world, but rarely duplicated. We’ll pit Germany against Belgium in this beer battle. Join us to discover the roots of craft beer! Beddington: April 5, 7-9pm • $25 per person Canadian Whisky – True Patriot Love It seems as though Canadian whisky is an amalgamation of bourbon and scotch whisky. We’re putting out the call for dram dribblers to join us in this event, where we’ll delve deep into the history and production of our home and native land’s spirit. We’ll explore a selection of premium, Canadian-made whisky and maybe even whip up a cocktail. From rye styles to malt whiskies, let’s go coast to coast. Crowfoot: April 10, 7-9pm • $35 per person Beddington: April 25, 7-9pm • $35 per person
4
Fancy France – Rhone Valley We’ve watched you peruse the French wine aisles. We wipe fingerprints from the glass protecting the wine stored behind it. We’ve seen the curiosity on your faces. Join us as we unlock the cabinet and taste a flight of some of the top offerings from the historic Rhone Valley. Between the North and the South of this valley, we know there’s a wine you’ll fall in love with. Crowfoot: April 3, 7-9pm • $35 per person First Families of Australia – The Resurgence Down Under Australia is enjoying a resurgence of regional wines of quality, an initiative led by the 12 “first families” of Australian winemaking. This collective represents 48 generations of winemaking Down Under and spans 17 regions. Join us as we lead you through the rebirth of a winemaking nation with a flight of handcrafted wines and flavourful family stories. Shawnessy: April 3, 7-9pm • $25 per person German Food and Wine with Boreal Cuisine German wine labels can be uber-mysterious, filled with long unpronounceable words. We’ll demystify these labels and introduce you to the renaissance happening in this Bavarian wine region. Chef Wade Paterson of Boreal Cuisine will create some classic and modern takes on German dishes to pair with these distinctive, food-friendly wine styles! Crowfoot: April 5, 7-9pm • $60 per person Oakridge: April 12, 7-9pm • $60 per person Grape Battles – Malbec vs. Merlot “Velvet Touch” The 2004 movie “Sideways” may have brought wine culture to the mainstream in a big way, but it was also responsible for the downfall of Merlot. Currently, Malbec is dominating the world stage. Both these grapes offer deep fruit character and a velvety soft and full mouthfeel. Can Merlot regain its popularity, or will Malbec hold on to its rule? Regardless of the outcome, we’re confident you’ll enjoy this luscious tasting. Beddington: April 16, 7-9pm • $25 per person
Grape Battles – Sangiovese vs. Tempranillo Two old-world grape varieties will be put glass-to-glass in a battle with two very traditional wine styles. Both Sangiovese and Tempranillo show mouth-watering acidity, complex personalities and the potential to reward the patient cellar-master with wonderful evolution through cellaring. A tasting event not to be missed! Beddington: April 3, 7-9pm • $25 per person Oakridge: April 4, 7-9pm • $25 per person MacTaggart: April 4, 7-9pm • $25 per person Interesting Italy – The Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT) Flight Most geographically designated wines all have legal requirements that must be strictly adhered to. This unique category allows winemakers creativity and expression in their winemaking and representation of the region they reside in. We’ll focus on some of Italy’s most interesting wine styles, which often use international grape varieties rather than the homeland’s indigenous varieties. Join us as we find some robust and generous wine styles that will undoubtedly deliver as we tour the land of the trained vine! Crowfoot: April 11, 7-9pm • $35 per person Oakridge: April 26, 7-9pm • $35 per person Land to Hand and Sustainable Winemaking Wine is a beautiful thing, and so is Mother Nature. When wine can be produced through sustainable farming practices, using minimal impact on the environment to support the vineyard, only good things can happen. Join us in celebration of our Earth as we discover the best-tasting wines created with the utmost respect for our planet and its resources. There’s more to this than organics; it’s quality and sustainability working hand in hand. Shawnessy: April 17, 7-9pm • $25 per person
Numbers and Wine We’ve teamed up with Alberta numerologist Vikki MacKinnon to bring you an exciting evening of numbers and wine. You’ll not only learn the special qualities of your own life path, you’ll also find a perfectly-picked pairing just for you! MacTaggart: April 11, 7-9pm • $30 per person The Pope’s New Castle – An Evening of Châteauneuf-du-Pape Deep in the heart of France’s Southern Rhone Valley is an appellation producing some of the finest of French wines. In 1308, Pope Clement V relocated the papacy to Avignon and brought with it a love and understanding of the vine. Since then, the region has become renowned for producing long-lived, deep and complex wines. Join us as we uncork some of the finest examples of this illustrious wine-growing region and share its history with you! MacTaggart: April 5, 7-9pm • $35 per person Crowfoot: April 24, 7-9pm • $35 per person Shawnessy: April 24, 7-9pm • $35 per person Scotch Whisky 201 – Speyside In previous seasons we’ve taken our members on a tour through Scotland’s whisky-producing regions, dabbling in drams from each. This season, we’ll get focused and dialed in on one of Scotland’s most diverse regions. Speyside boasts a higher distillery density than any other region and a plethora of dram styles. Let’s see what this part of Scotland really has to offer! Oakridge: April 24, 7-9pm • $45 per person Sniff, Sip, ‘n Swirl – Taste like a Pro Have you ever wondered how wine professionals pick out mysterious scents in wine? Have you ever read a wine review and wondered what a quince smells like? There are no right or wrong answers to the scents found in wine. Our sense of smell is closely attached to memories and life experiences. In this event, we’ll use wine smell-kits to help you build your scent catalogue and open your senses to an intriguing and interesting principle of wine appreciation. See if you can smell the difference! Shawnessy: April 5, 7-9pm • $25 per person
5
April Tastings continued from page 5
THIS QUINOA SALAD WOULD SHINE WITH AN ARGENTINEAN TORRENTES OR A NEW ZEALAND SAUVIGNON BLANC
C o- op
Visit from the Rum Doctor – Rumbullion 101 Join us for a fun-filled evening with our special guest, Michael Delevante. Michael is the Senior Master Distiller for Appleton’s Rum and a chemical engineer. Rum has gone from a “hot and hellish liquor” to a sipping spirit right on par with the likes of fine cognac and whisky. Michael will lead us through a tasting of Appleton’s finest and answer all your questions about rum production, its history, and how and when you should drink it. Oakridge: April 10, 7pm • $25 per person The Vixen Named Vodka! Its time to set it straight! Straight vodka, that is. Let’s line up premium vodka and see who really can lay claim to the title of “smoothest.” We’ll taste a flight of top-shelf vodka in a blind and deductive format, take score and see if we can taste the difference price makes. Perhaps we can make a few cocktails, too! Shawnessy: April 12, 7-9pm • $35 per person Wine-Down Wednesdays – Value Wines Under $20 In this mid-week event we’ll lead you through a flight of wines that over-deliver and don’t break the bank. Our sommelier will select hidden gems that bring true value at an unbeatable price. Let us help you find your next go-to wine! Oakridge: April 2, 7-9pm • $15 per person
6
B eer
•
Tas t i ng
Ce n t r e s
Beddington
April 2014
8220 Centre Street NE, Calgary
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
1
Zesty Quinoa Salad
THURSDAY
2
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
3
4
Grape Battles
5
Border Beer Wars
Sangiovese vs. Tempranillo
3 cups quinoa Freshly-squeezed juice of 1 lemon Zest of lemon Freshly-squeezed juice of 1 orange Zest of ½ orange Freshly-squeezed juice of 1 lime Zest of ½ lime Drizzle of olive oil Drizzle of honey 1/3 small red onion, finely chopped 1 cup of diced multi-coloured peppers 1/3 cup edamame beans 6 finely chopped parsley leaves Cook quinoa according to package instructions. While quinoa is cooking, whisk the juices, olive oil, zests, honey, along with a pinch of salt and pepper, into a vinaigrette. When the quinoa is finished cooking, set aside to cool. Once it has chilled, add remaining ingredients to the quinoa and combine in a bowl. Drizzle with vinaigrette and combine. Keep chilled until served. To make this salad a meal, top with a few pieces of seared Ahi tuna.
S p i r i t s
Calendar of Events SUNDAY
Sommelier Cup – Season 1, Round 1 The gauntlet is down as our sommelier teams go head-to-head in this round-robin tournament to find out who really knows wine! We’ll place you on a team with a sommelier and ask you to help determine the identity of fine wines from around the world, served up in a blind tasting. Only the referee will know the true identity. On the line: the coveted Co-op Sommelier Cup! So you think you know wine? Let’s find out! Shawnessy: April 4, 7-9pm • $25
W i ne
Germany vs. Belgium
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
23
24
25
26
Grape Battles
Malbec vs. Merlot “Velvet Touch” GOOD FRIDAY
20
21
22
Canadian Whisky True Patriot Love
THE GRAPE ESCAPE EDMONTON
EASTER SUNDAY
27
Like Us on ! Facebook
28
29
THE GRAPE ESCAPE EDMONTON
30
Stay informed on the latest offers, dinners and tasting events. facebook.com/coopwinesandspirits
7
Co -op
Win e
Spirits
•
Tasting
C e ntre s
C o- op
Crowfoot
Calendar of Events SUNDAY
Beer
April 2014
39 Crowfoot Way NW, Calgary
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
1
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
2
Rhone Valley
7
8
9
10
True Patriot Love
14
15
16
•
Tas t i ng
Ce n t r e s
April 2014
5962 Mullen Way, Edmonton
MONDAY
TUESDAY
5
WEDNESDAY
1
THURSDAY
2
FRIDAY
4
Grape Battles Sangiovese vs. Tempranillo
11
12
6
7
8
9
The Pope’s New Castle
5
An Evening of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
10
11
12
18
19
25
26
Numbers and Wine
Interesting Italy The IGT Flight
17
SATURDAY
3
with Boreal Cuisine
Canadian Whisky
13
B eer
German Food and Wine
Fancy France
6
SUNDAY
4
S p i r i t s
Mactaggart Ridge
Calendar of Events
SATURDAY
3
W i ne
18
19
13
14
15
16
17
ABC
Amazing, Buttery Chardonnay GOOD FRIDAY
20
21
22
23
24
The Pope’s New Castle
An Evening of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
EASTER SUNDAY
27
Discovery Discovery
8
Wine Pack
28
29
Alsatian Adventure
GOOD FRIDAY
25
THE GRAPE ESCAPE EDMONTON
30
Discover wine in a whole new way with our Discovery Wine Packs. Learn about a selection of six different wine styles and delicious food pairings selected monthly by our sommelier team.
26
THE GRAPE ESCAPE EDMONTON
20
21
22
23
24
THE GRAPE ESCAPE EDMONTON
EASTER SUNDAY
27
BEER TRAVELER
28
29
THE GRAPE ESCAPE EDMONTON
30
Experience over 400 beers, ales and draughts from around the world. Get rewards, plus enter for a chance to win the grand prize. Visit any Co-op Wine Spirits Beer location for details.
9
Co-op
Win e
Spirits
•
Tasting
C e ntre s
April 2014
2570 Southland Drive SW, Calgary
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
1
THURSDAY
2
FRIDAY
3
Wine-Down Wednesdays
7
8
SATURDAY
15
SUNDAY
B eer
•
Tas t i ng
Shawnessy
10
16
April 2014
250 Shawville Blvd. SE, Calgary
MONDAY
TUESDAY
5
WEDNESDAY
1
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
2
Sangiovese vs. Tempranillo
9
Ce n t r e s
12
6
7
8
9
4 Season 1, Round 1
10
Taste like a Pro
11
German Food and Wine
18
12
The Vixen Named Vodka!
with Boreal Cuisine
17
5
Sniff, Sip, ‘n Swirl
Sommelier Cup
The Resurgence Down Under
11
SATURDAY
3
First Families of Australia
Rumbullion 101
14
S p i r i t s
Calendar of Events
4
Visit from the Rum Doctor
13
W i ne
Grape Battles
Value Wines Under $20
6
C o- op
Oakridge
Calendar of Events SUNDAY
Be er
19
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
25
26
Land to Hand and Sustainable Winemaking GOOD FRIDAY
20
21
22
23
24
EASTER SUNDAY
27
the Grape Escape 10
Wine Spirits Beer Festival
28
29
26
20
21
22
23
Interesting Italy
Scotch Whisky 201 Speyside
GOOD FRIDAY
25
The Pope’s New Castle
The IGT Flight
THE GRAPE ESCAPE EDMONTON
30
Spend an evening sampling and learning about a seemingly endless selection of premium wine, spirits and beer from over 75 producers. See back cover for details.
THE GRAPE ESCAPE EDMONTON
24
An Evening of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
EASTER SUNDAY
27
Personalize Your
Wine Experience
28
29
THE GRAPE ESCAPE EDMONTON
THE GRAPE ESCAPE EDMONTON
30
Enjoy a monthly selection of wine from your own private wine locker chosen by our in-house sommeliers based on your taste profile. See page 36 for details.
11
Get the most brownie points ever with the ultimate Oeufs en Meurette 8 eggs One bottle of light-bodied red wine (Pinot Noir or Gamay) 2 cups of low-sodium chicken stock 1 chopped onion 1 chopped large carrot 1 chopped celery stock Crushed garlic clove Bouquet garni – thyme sprigs, parsley and a bay leaf tied together with butcher’s twine ½ teaspoon of peppercorns
THIS IS A CLASSIC DISH IN FRENCH COUNTRY COOKING. THIS SAVOURY, FLAVOURFUL AND RICH EXPERIENCE OFFERS A LEVEL OF WARMTH AND COMFORT THAT MOM DESERVES. IT ’LL TAKE SOME EFFORT, BUT THE REWARD IS WORTH IT! 12
Garnish A generous handful of mushrooms, sliced A generous handful of diced harvest-cut bacon or lardons A very generous handful of baby onions, peeled 8 slices of bread Bring wine and stock to a rolling boil in a shallow pan. Working in batches, poach the eggs in the liquid (3 or 4 minutes for medium-soft poached eggs). Lift eggs out with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towel. Set aside. Add onion, carrot, celery, garlic, peppercorns and garni to the boiling liquid and reduce to half concentration.
Mother’s Day Brunch START WITH A SELEC TION OF MOM’S FAVOURITE FRESH-CUT FRUIT AND SERVE HER UP A GL ASS OF WELL-CHILLED PROSECCO, AND YOU’LL BE OFF TO A GREAT START!
Profiteroles with Lemon Cream While the liquid is reducing, sauté mushrooms in half the butter until tender. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, fry bacon until brown. Remove bacon and set aside. Add the pearl onions to the pan and sauté until brown and tender (about 12 minutes). Drain the grease, add the bacon and mushrooms, and set aside. Cut out oval shapes just larger than the eggs from the slices of bread. Fry the bread (croute) in batches in a pan with a healthy drizzle of oil until brown on both sides (roughly 2 minutes a side). Set aside the croute. If you like, thicken the sauce by crushing butter on a plate with a fork and work a little flour into it. Add this paste by whisking in a piece at a time. If the sauce is thick enough to coat a spoon, you’re good to go! Strain the sauce over the mushrooms, onions and bacon, pressing the solids in the sauce to extract all the flavour and liquid. Bring the mixture up to a soft boil and season to taste. Place the eggs on each of the croute and spoon over the sauce mixture. If you wish you can serve with a side of roasted potatoes. A DELIGHTFUL WINE PAIRING FOR THIS WOULD BE A GOOD QUALIT Y PINOT NOIR FROM FRANCE OR OREGON.
For the Dough: 1 cup milk 1 stick of butter 1 cup all-purpose flour 4 eggs ½ cup 36% cream For the Cream: Handful of semi-sweet chocolate chips Finely grated zest of 1 lemon 1 egg Juice of one lemon ½ cup of granulated sugar 1 teaspoon of butter 1 cup 36% cream Heat the milk and butter with a pinch of salt on medium until the butter melts. Add the flour all at once, and stir with a wooden spoon until a dough forms. Continue cooking for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and put into a food processor. Once the dough is cooled, add eggs and pulse until the eggs are incorporated and the dough becomes thick.
Using a piping bag, portion out the mixture onto a parchment lined baking sheet into puffs about an inch high and an inch in diameter. You should get just shy of 20 puffs from your dough. Pat down any swirls created from piping. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°C for about 20 minutes or until lightly browned. Turn off the oven open the door slightly and allow them to sit for another 10 minutes. Remove and cool on a rack. In a saucepan, combine all ingredients for the filling except the heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thick enough to coat a spoon. Do not boil or mixture will curdle. Place in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap is on the surface to prevent a skin forming. Let cool to room temperature. Beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the lemon mixture. Cover and chill for an hour. Cut each profiterole in half and spoon lemon cream onto bottom half. Put the top piece back on and place on a platter. Voila! You could also drizzle chocolate over profiteroles and chill until chocolate has hardened. SERVE LEMON CREAM PROFITEROLES WITH A WELL-CHILLED GLASS OF MOSC ATO D’ASTI.
13
May Tastings continued on page 16
ABC – Amazing, Buttery Chardonnay There’s a mantra some repeat when choosing wine: ABC, or Anything But Chardonnay. But if you’re anything like us, you feel the exact opposite! How about, “Amazing, Buttery Chardonnay,” instead? With summer fast approaching, these wines will make for decadent wine and food pairings – we’ll show you why, and share our love for these big, rich, oaky and buttery wine styles. Let’s crack open the best we can find on our shelves from all over the world! Oakridge: May 22, 7-9pm • $25 per person
BBQ and Wine with Boreal Cuisine The days grow longer and the patio chairs have been pulled out of storage. Summer’s on its way. Chef Wade Paterson of Boreal Cuisine will prepare smoky, sticky BBQ for us as we explore fantastic wine options for warm-weather entertaining. Get ready for a great summer with some outstanding BBQ recipes and wine-pairing tips for eating under the summer sun! Shawnessy: May 10, 7-9pm • $60 per person Beddington: May 22, 7-9pm • $60 per person
Fancy France – Bordeaux We’ve watched you peruse the French wine aisles. We wipe fingerprints from the glass protecting the wine stored behind it. We’ve seen the curiosity on your faces. Join us as we unlock the cabinet and taste a flight of some of the top offerings from France’s most aristocratic wine region – impressive wines that carry themselves with grace, poise and elegance. Oakridge: May 24, 7-9pm • $35 per person Crowfoot: May 31, 7-9pm • $35 per person
Alphabet Series H – N We’re going back to school, and we’re taking you with us. We’ll lead you through a tasting that follows the letters of the alphabet with grapes from around the world. You’ll be delighted as we showcase a collection of wines, the names of each starting with a different letter from H through N. Make sure to catch the upcoming third installment of O-Z! Oakridge: May 1, 7-9pm • $25 per person
BBQ and Wine with Chef Jered Evangelos The days grow longer and the patio chairs have been pulled out of storage. Summer’s on its way. Chef Jered Evangelos of Catering by Gail will prepare smoky, sticky BBQ for us as we explore fantastic wine options for warm-weather entertaining. Get ready for a great summer with some outstanding BBQ recipes and wine-pairing tips for eating under the summer sun! MacTaggart: May 22, 7-9pm • $60 per person
Fancy France – Burgundy We’ve watched you peruse the French wine aisles. We wipe fingerprints from the glass protecting the wine stored behind it. We’ve seen the curiosity on your faces. On this special evening, we’ll unlock the cabinet and taste a flight of some of the top offerings from France’s historic wine region. Burgundy is the birthplace of fine Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This region can be complicated, but don’t worry – we’ll break it down and make it accessible for everyone. Crowfoot: May 3, 7-9pm • $45 per person
Alsatian Adventure Wines from Alsace can easily be described as the most exotic in France. These wines, from a region of France near the German border that almost exclusively produces white wine, are worth exploring by any enthusiast. Bavarian and French culture combine to create a style that still cannot be matched anywhere in the world. From light and delicate, round and luscious, to full-bodied and rich, there is something here for everyone. Finally, a French wine region that labels by grape variety! Shawnessy: May 24, 7-9pm • $25 per person
Border Beer Wars – Germany vs. Belgium Our Border Beer Wars series continues in what may be the ultimate beer showdown. Central Europe is the motherland of many traditional and classic beer styles often imitated around the world, but rarely duplicated. We’ll pit Germany against Belgium in this beer battle. Join us to discover the roots of craft beer! Oakridge: May 8, 7-9pm • $25 per person
Fancy France – Rhone Valley We’ve watched you peruse the French wine aisles. We wipe fingerprints from the glass protecting the wine stored behind it. We’ve seen the curiosity on your faces. Join us as we unlock the cabinet and taste a flight of some of the top offerings from the historic Rhone Valley. Between the North and the South of this valley, we know there’s a wine you’ll fall in love with. Beddington: May 2, 7-9pm • $35 per person
Canadian Whisky – True Patriot Love It seems as though Canadian whisky is an amalgamation of bourbon and scotch whisky. We’re putting out the call for dram dribblers to join us in this event, where we’ll delve deep into the history and production of our home and native land’s spirit. We’ll explore a selection of premium, Canadian-made whisky and maybe even whip up a cocktail. From rye styles to malt whiskies, let’s go coast to coast. Shawnessy: May 15, 7-9pm • $35 per person
Grape Battles – Syrah vs. Shiraz “Style Clash” Have you ever wondered about the difference between these two wines? Same grape, different name. Thanks to Australia, Shiraz has become a cult of personality – although it’s produced with the Syrah grape, Shiraz seems to have its own character. We pit these two wine styles in a blind flight to see if there really is a difference. The flight will include Syrah and Shiraz from around the globe. There’s sure to be some spice on this evening. Oakridge: May 15, 7-9pm • $25 per person
An Evening with Chef Nicole Gomes Join us for an unforgettable evening with one of Canada’s most highly-touted culinary talents, Chef Nicole Gomes. Participating in Top Chef Canada on Food Network is only the tip of the iceberg – she has a reputation for creating elegant, fresh dishes. Our in-house sommeliers will draw from decades of fine dining experience to choose unforgettable pairings for Chef Nicole’s culinary creations. Join us for a food and wine pairing dream come true! Crowfoot: May 8, 7-9pm • $95 per person
14
Chocolate and Wine – Couture Chocolates by Jacqueline Jacek Jacqueline’s a self-proclaimed “cocoanista,” combining her love of fashion and chocolate into incredible, edible pieces of art. Her company, Jacek Chocolate Couture, was named one of the Top 10 North American Chocolatiers in 2011. Join us for a delightful night of two of the detoxifying treats we all love the most: chocolate and wine! We’ll pair a hand-picked selection of wines to create the ultimate ensemble! MacTaggart: May 3, 7-9pm • $50
Grape Battles – Zinfandel vs. Grenache “Hot Stuff” These two grape varieties can be shape-shifters. Both are best suited to very hot climates, and both can be produced in lighter, fruitier styles, yet can also be found in some very serious, age-worthy regal bottlings. Grenache is the base of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Zinfandel is at its best in the heart of California, but both varieties flourish around the world in varying wine styles. Join us for an educational and hot night! Beddington: May 8, 7-9pm • $25 per person MacTaggart: May 9, 7-9pm • $25 per person
Interesting Italy – The Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT) Flight Most geographically designated wines all have legal requirements that must be strictly adhered to. This unique category allows winemakers creativity and expression in their winemaking and representation of the region they reside in. We’ll focus on some of Italy’s most interesting wine styles, which often use international grape varieties rather than the homeland’s indigenous varieties. Join us as we find some robust and generous wine styles that will undoubtedly deliver as we tour the land of the trained vine! Shawnessy: May 1, 7-9pm • $35 per person MacTaggart: May 30, 7-9pm • $35 per person Library Tasting – Vintage Wines We’ve secretly been hiding wines in our cellar for years. They rest lazily in a temperaturecontrolled environment until they’re at least 10 years of age, slowly evolving deep and complex characters. Now, we’re opening the cellar door and blowing off the dust on some of these beauties, and we want you to join us! This flight will include wines and styles from around the globe. Oakridge: May 10, 7-9pm • $45 per person Crowfoot: May 23, 7-9pm • $45 per person Life in the Dirt – An Exploration of Terroir Terroir is the set of special characteristics that the geography, geology and climate of a certain place, interacting with plant genetics, express in agricultural products such as wine. We’ll delve deep into some special vineyard areas considered high fidelity terroirs and find out if you can, in fact, taste a place. We’ll take a journey via wine glass from the volcanic ashes of Mount Etna to the high-altitude vines of Gualtallary, Argentina; on to the schist terraces of the Douro in Portugal, the Devonian blue slate of Mosel, Germany and more. Join us for what’s sure to be an insightful event and a flavour-filled lesson in geology! Oakridge: May 3, 7-9pm • $25 per person MacTaggart: May 24, 7-9pm • $25 per person Shawnessy: May 31, 7-9pm $25 per person Premium Cabernet from Around the World Cabernet Sauvignon is unanimously considered the most revered and magnanimous of grape varieties in the wine world. Join us as we sample a tantalizing flight of super-premium wines, with dark concentration, deep berry-fruit expression, and a complementing structure like no other. We’ll taste excellent examples of Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines from throughout the world, including, but not limited to: Argentina, Australia, Bolgheri, Bordeaux, Canada and Chile. There will also be gourmet tapas to complement this rare, memorable tasting. Oakridge: May 30, 7-9pm • $125 per person
15
May Tastings
C o- op
SUNDAY
Scotch Whisky 201 – Islay In previous seasons we’ve taken our members on a tour through Scotland’s whisky-producing regions, dabbling in drams from each. This season, we’ll get focused and dialed in on the most pungent and powerful of the country’s whisky. This seaside area is notorious for its chest-warming, smoky and robust whisky. Time to explore! MacTaggart: May 15, 7-9pm • $45 per person
Wine-Down Wednesdays – Value Wines Under $20 In this mid-week event we’ll lead you through a flight of wines that over-deliver and don’t break the bank. Our sommelier will select hidden gems that bring true value at an unbeatable price. Let us help you find your next go-to wine! MacTaggart: May 7, 7-9pm • $15 per person Shawnessy: May 7, 7-9pm • $15 per person
Scotch Whisky 201 – Speyside In previous seasons we’ve taken our members on a tour through Scotland’s whisky-producing regions, dabbling in drams from each. This season, we’ll get focused and dialed in on one of Scotland’s most diverse regions. Speyside boasts a higher distillery density than any other region and a plethora of dram styles. Let’s see what this part of Scotland really has to offer! Shawnessy: May 23, 7-9pm • $45 per person
Wines of Chile There’s no wine region like Chile! This skinny sliver of a country has some of the most unique climactic factors of any wine-growing region in the world. Chile produces wines that speak very loudly to a sense of place and unique Chilean flavour profile, from crisp fresh whites right through to some of the deepest reds. Let’s explore this wonderful country with wine selections from North to South. Shawnessy: May 29, 7-9pm • $25 per person Beddington: May 30, 7-9pm • $25 per person
Sommelier Cup – Season 1, Round 2 The gauntlet is down as our sommelier teams go head-to-head in this round-robin tournament to find out who really knows wine! We’ll place you on a team with a sommelier and ask you to help determine the identity of fine wines from around the world, served up in a blind tasting. Only the referee will know the true identity. On the line: the coveted Co-op Sommelier Cup! So you think you know wine? Let’s find out! This is the second round of tournament play. Crowfoot: May 9, 7-9pm • $25
Women and Wine – Wedding Season Wedding season is upon us! You only have one shot to get your wedding or wedding shower just perfect. Sit back, relax, and let our experienced sommeliers and super party-planners help with all your wine, spirit and event planning decisions. Join us as we show you some of our favourite wines, cocktails, event ideas and party planning tricks to help you get hitched without a hitch! Taste a selection of products that will scream “celebration”, and be a perfect match for your function. Beddington: May 10, 7-9pm • $25 per person MacTaggart: May 31, 7-9pm • $25 per person Private Locker Class Please ask us how you can be a part of our Private Locker Program. MacTaggart: May 14 Crowfoot: May 22 Beddington: May 29
B eer
•
Tas t i ng
Ce n t r e s
Beddington
May 2014
8220 Centre Street NE, Calgary
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
1
SATURDAY
2
3
9
10
Fancy France Rhone Valley
4
5
6
7
8
Women and Wine
Grape Battles
Zinfandel vs. Grenache “Hot Stuff”
Wedding Season
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
29
30
31
MOTHER‘S DAY
BBQ and Wine
with Boreal Cuisine VICTORIA DAY
25
26
27
28
Private Locker Class
Personalize Your
16
S p i r i t s
Calendar of Events
continued from page 15
Sniff, Sip, ‘n Swirl – Taste like a Pro Have you ever wondered how wine professionals pick out mysterious scents in wine? Have you ever read a wine review and wondered what a quince smells like? There are no right or wrong answers to the scents found in wine. Our sense of smell is closely attached to memories and life experiences. In this event, we’ll use wine smell-kits to help you build your scent catalogue and open your senses to an intriguing and interesting principle of wine appreciation. See if you can smell the difference! MacTaggart: May 1, 7-9pm • $25 per person Crowfoot: May 2, 7-9pm • $25 per person
W i ne
Wine Experience
Wines of Chile
Enjoy a monthly selection of wine from your own private wine locker chosen by our in-house sommeliers based on your taste profile. See page 36 for details.
17
Co-op
Win e
Spirits
•
Tasting
C o- op
C e ntre s
Crowfoot
Calendar of Events SUNDAY
Be er
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
1
Sniff, Sip, ‘n Swirl
5
6
7
8
An Evening with Chef Nicole Gomes 11
12
13
14
•
Tas t i ng
Ce n t r e s
May 2014
5962 Mullen Way, Edmonton
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
2 Couture Chocolates by Jacqueline Jacek
Taste Like a Pro
4
10
5
6
7
8
Wine-Down Wednesdays
Sommelier Cup Season 1, Round 2
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
22
23
24
Scotch Whisky 201 Islay
MOTHER‘S DAY
18
19
20
21
22
Private Locker Class
23
24
18
25
19
20
21
BBQ and Wine
Library Tasting Vintage Wines
26
27
28
29
30
31
25
26
27
28
29
Spend an evening sampling and learning about a seemingly endless selection of premium wine, spirits and beer from over 75 producers. See back cover for details.
30
Interesting Italy
Bordeaux
Wine Spirits Beer Festival
An Exploration of Terroir
VICTORIA DAY
Fancy France
the Grape Escape
Life in the Dirt
with Chef Jered Evangelos
VICTORIA DAY
18
10
Grape Battles
Private Locker Class MOTHER‘S DAY
9 Zinfandel vs. Grenache “Hot Stuff”
Value Wines Under $20
17
3
Chocolate and Wine
Sniff, Sip, ‘n Swirl
Burgundy
16
SATURDAY
1
3
9
15
B eer
Fancy France
Taste Like a Pro
4
SUNDAY
SATURDAY
2
S p i r i t s
Mactaggart Ridge
Calendar of Events
May 2014
39 Crowfoot Way NW, Calgary
W i ne
The IGT Flight
Like Us on ! Facebook
31
Women and Wine
Wedding Season
Stay informed on the latest offers, dinners and tasting events. facebook.com/coopwinesandspirits
19
Co-op
Win e
Spirits
•
Tasting
C e ntre s
C o- op
Oakridge
Calendar of Events SUNDAY
Be er
May 2014
2570 Southland Drive SW, Calgary
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
1
6
7
8
13
14
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
2
3
8
9
10
The IGT Flight
10
16
SATURDAY
1
Interesting Italy
4
5
6
Wine-Down Wednesdays
7
BBQ and Wine
Value Wines Under $20
17
11
12
13
with Boreal Cuisine
14
Grape Battles
15
16
17
23
24
Canadian Whisky
Syrah vs. Shiraz “Style Clash”
True Patriot Love
MOTHER‘S DAY
MOTHER‘S DAY
18
19
20
21
22
23
ABC
24
18
21
22
Scotch Whisky 201
Alsatian Adventure
Speyside
VICTORIA DAY
26
27
28
29
30
31
25
Premium Cabernet
Experience over 400 beers, ales and draughts from around the world. Get rewards, plus enter for a chance to win the grand prize. Visit any Co-op Wine Spirits Beer location for details.
26
27
28
29
Wines of Chile
from Around the World
BEER TRAVELER
20
Bordeaux
VICTORIA DAY
25
19
Fancy France
Amazing, Buttery Chardonnay
20
May 2014
250 Shawville Blvd. SE, Calgary
Vintage Wines
15
Ce n t r e s
Shawnessy
Library Tasting
Germany vs. Belgium
12
Tas t i ng
3
9
Border Beer Wars
11
•
An Exploration of Terroir
H–N
5
SUNDAY
B eer
Life in the Dirt
Alphabet Series
4
S p i r i t s
Calendar of Events
SATURDAY
2
W i ne
Discovery Discovery
Wine Pack
Discover wine in a whole new way with our Discovery Wine Packs. Learn about a selection of six different wine styles and delicious food pairings selected monthly by our sommelier team.
30
31
Life in the Dirt An Exploration of Terroir
21
Ask an Expert
Food and Wine If it grows together, it goes together!
Complement or contrast?
A great starting principle is pairing based on region. These are tried, tested and true pairings; the dish and the wine have evolved together through time. This is almost always a safe bet and can provide some delightful traditional pairings. For example: tomato-based pasta dishes with Chianti or Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.
The safest route is to look for complementary flavours and textures. Think beef tenderloin with a blackberry reduction sauce, paired with Cabernet Sauvignon, which will also offer blackberry fruit notes. A dish with citrus fruit or acid such as ceviche or a green salad with vinaigrette, will be wondrous with a zippy high-acid wine like Sauvignon Blanc. Earthy components, such as mushrooms paired with an old-world, earth-driven wine such as Pinot Noir from Burgundy, France, can be inspiring.
Pair the wine to the most dominant flavour of the dish. This flavour most likely comes from the sauce, but it may in fact come from the cooking method or seasoning. It’s also important to understand the texture of the dish – we’re looking to match the wine with the weight of the dish. Pair a rich, heavy dish with an equally rich wine, or a light-bodied, airy dish with a crisp, light-bodied wine with fresh acidity.
For more inspiration and education about food and wine pairing, join us at one of our food and wine nights. German Food and Wine with Boreal Cuisine CROWFOOT: APRIL 5 OAKRIDGE: APRIL 12
22
An Evening with Chef Nicole Gomes CROWFOOT: MAY 8 SHAWNESSY: JUNE 12
BBQ and Wine SHAWNESSY: MAY 10 BEDDINGTON: MAY 22 MACTAGGART: MAY 22 CROWFOOT: JUNE 6
Contrasting takes some practice and is a high-risk, high-reward proposition. These pairings can be an epiphany, but could also take a wrong turn if not thought out. A great example of contrasting would be using a high-acid wine to cut through fatty or oily foods.
Food and wine pairings to tantalize your taste buds: • Sushi paired with a German Riesling • Grilled salmon is magical with oaky California Chardonnay • Steamed mussels go hand-in-hand with Muscadet-Sèvre et Maine • Homemade hamburgers pair perfectly with Shiraz or Syrah • Osso Bucco and Barolo is a match made in heaven! • Grilled ribeye steak with California Cabernet Sauvignon • Charcuterie – pâté, cured meats and cheeses – is always tasty with a good Beaujolais Cru 23
June Tastings continued on page 26
ABC – Amazing, Buttery Chardonnay There’s a mantra some repeat when choosing wine: ABC, or Anything But Chardonnay. But if you’re anything like us, you feel the exact opposite! How about, “Amazing, Buttery Chardonnay,” instead? With summer fast approaching, these wines will make for decadent wine and food pairings – we’ll show you why, and share our love for these big, rich, oaky and buttery wine styles. Let’s crack open the best we can find on our shelves from all over the world! Crowfoot: June 12, 7-9pm • $25 per person Shawnessy: June 27, 7-9pm • $25 per person Alphabet Series O – Z Our trip through the alphabet continues with yet another letter-inspired tasting featuring grapes from around the world. This time, we’ll taste our way through wines with names that start with letters from O to Z. Oakridge: June 26, 7-9pm • $25 per person Alsatian Adventure Wines from Alsace can easily be described as the most exotic in France. These wines, from a region of France near the German border that almost exclusively produces white wine, are worth exploring by any enthusiast. Bavarian and French culture combine to create a style that still cannot be matched anywhere in the world. From light and delicate, round and luscious, to full-bodied and rich, there is something here for everyone. Finally, a French wine region that labels by grape variety! Beddington: June 19, 7-9pm • $25 per person Oakridge: June 21, 7-9pm • $25 per person An Evening with Chef Nicole Gomes Join us for an unforgettable evening with one of Canada’s most highly-touted culinary talents, Chef Nicole Gomes. Participating in Top Chef Canada on Food Network is only the tip of the iceberg – she has a reputation for creating elegant, fresh dishes. Our in-house sommeliers will draw from decades of fine dining experience to choose unforgettable pairings for Chef Nicole’s culinary creations. Join us for a food and wine pairing dream come true! Shawnessy: June 12, 7-9pm • $95 per person
24
BBQ and Wine with Boreal Cuisine The days grow longer and the patio chairs have been pulled out of storage. Summer’s on its way. Chef Wade Patterson of Boreal Cuisine will prepare smoky, sticky BBQ for us as we explore fantastic wine options for warm-weather entertaining. Get ready for a great summer with some outstanding BBQ recipes and wine-pairing tips for eating under the summer sun! Crowfoot: June 6, 7-9pm • $60 per person Canadian Whisky – True Patriot Love It seems as though Canadian whisky is an amalgamation of bourbon and scotch whisky. We’re putting out the call for dram dribblers to join us in this event, where we’ll delve deep into the history and production of our home and native land’s spirit. We’ll explore a selection of premium, Canadian-made whisky and maybe even whip up a cocktail. From rye styles to malt whiskies, let’s go coast to coast. MacTaggart: June 28, 7-9pm • $35 per person Fancy France – Burgundy We’ve watched you peruse the French wine aisles. We wipe fingerprints from the glass protecting the wine stored behind it. We’ve seen the curiosity on your faces. On this special evening, we’ll unlock the cabinet and taste a flight of some of the top offerings from France’s historic wine region. Burgundy is the birthplace of fine Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This region can be complicated, but don’t worry – we’ll break it down and make it accessible for everyone. Shawnessy: June 7, 7-9pm • $45 per person MacTaggart: June 27, 7-9pm • $45 per person Grape Battles – Malbec vs. Merlot “Velvet Touch” The 2004 movie “Sideways” may have brought wine culture to the mainstream in a big way, but it was also responsible for the downfall of Merlot. Currently, Malbec is dominating the world stage. Both these grapes offer deep fruit character and a velvety soft and full mouthfeel. Can Merlot regain its popularity, or will Malbec hold on to its rule? Regardless of the outcome, we’re confident you’ll enjoy this luscious tasting. MacTaggart: June 12, 7-9pm • $25 per person
Grape Battles – Syrah vs. Shiraz “Style Clash” Have you ever wondered about the difference between these two wines? Same grape, different name. Thanks to Australia, Shiraz has become a cult of personality – although it’s produced with the Syrah grape, Shiraz seems to have its own character. We pit these two wine styles in a blind flight to see if there really is difference. The flight will include Syrah and Shiraz from around the globe. There’s sure to be some spice on this evening. Shawnessy: June 5, 7-9pm • $25 per person Grape Battles – Zinfandel vs. Grenache “Hot Stuff” These two grape varieties can be shape-shifters. Both are best suited to very hot climates, and both can be produced in lighter, fruitier styles, yet can also be found in some very serious, ageworthy regal bottlings. Grenache is the base of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Zinfandel is at its best in the heart of California, but both varieties flourish around the world in varying wine styles. Join us for an educational and hot night! Crowfoot: June 27, 7-9pm • $25 per person Interesting Italy – The Indicazione Geografica Tipica (IGT) Flight Most geographically designated wines all have legal requirements that must be strictly adhered to. This unique category allows winemakers creativity and expression in their winemaking and representation of the region they reside in. We’ll focus on some of Italy’s most interesting wine styles, which often use international grape varieties rather than the homeland’s indigenous varieties. Join us as we find some robust and generous wine styles that will undoubtedly deliver as we tour the land of the trained vine! Beddington: June 21, 7-9pm • $35 per person Land to Hand and Sustainable Winemaking Wine is a beautiful thing, and so is Mother Nature. When wine can be produced through sustainable farming practices, using minimal impact on the environment to support the vineyard, only good things can happen. Join us in celebration of our Earth as we discover the best-tasting wines created with the utmost respect for our planet and its resources. There’s more to this than organics; it’s quality and sustainability working hand in hand. Crowfoot: June 28, 7-9pm • $25 per person
Library Tasting – Vintage Wines We’ve secretly been hiding wines in our cellar for years. They rest lazily in a temperature-controlled environment until they’re at least 10 years of age, slowly evolving deep and complex characters. Now, we’re opening the cellar door and blowing off the dust on some of these beauties, and we want you to join us! This flight will include wines and styles from around the globe. Beddington: June 26, 7-9pm • $45 per person Life in the Dirt – An Exploration of Terroir Terroir is the set of special characteristics that the geography, geology and climate of a certain place, interacting with plant genetics, express in agricultural products such as wine. We’ll delve deep into some special vineyard areas considered high fidelity terroirs and find out if you can, in fact, taste a place. We’ll take a journey via wine glass from the volcanic ashes of Mount Etna to the high-altitude vines of Gualtallary, Argentina; on to the schist terraces of the Douro in Portugal, the Devonian blue slate of Mosel, Germany and more. Join us for what’s sure to be an insightful event and a flavour-filled lesson in geology! Crowfoot: June 21, 7-9pm • $25 per person The Pope’s New Castle – An Evening of Châteauneuf-du-Pape Deep in the heart of France’s Southern Rhone Valley is an appellation producing some of the finest of French wines. In 1308, Pope Clement V relocated the papacy to Avignon and brought with it a love and understanding of the vine. Since then, the region has become renowned for producing long-lived, deep and complex wines. Join us as we uncork some of the finest examples of this illustrious wine-growing region and share its history with you! Oakridge: June 20, 7-9pm • $35 per person Premium Cabernet from Around the World Cabernet Sauvignon is unanimously considered the most revered and magnanimous of grape varieties in the wine world. Join us as we sample a tantalizing flight of super-premium wines, with dark concentration, deep berry-fruit expression, and a complementing structure like no other. We’ll taste excellent examples of Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines from throughout the world, including, but not limited to: Argentina, Australia, Bolgheri, Bordeaux, Canada and Chile. There will also be gourmet tapas to complement this rare, memorable tasting. MacTaggart: June 20, 7-9pm • $125 per person
25
June Tastings
Premium Cabernet Sauvignon
continued from page 25
Scotch Whisky 201 – Islay In previous seasons we’ve taken our members on a tour through Scotland’s whisky-producing regions, dabbling in drams from each. This season, we’ll get focused and dialed in on the most pungent and powerful of the country’s whisky. This seaside area is notorious for its chest-warming, smoky and robust whisky. Time to explore! Oakridge: June 19, 7-9pm • $45 per person Scotch Whisky 201 – Speyside In previous seasons we’ve taken our members on a tour through Scotland’s whisky-producing regions, dabbling in drams from each. This season, we’ll get focused and dialed in on one of Scotland’s most diverse regions. Speyside boasts a higher distillery density than any other region and a plethora of dram styles. Let’s see what this part of Scotland really has to offer! Crowfoot: June 19, 7-9pm • $45 per person Beddington: June 28, 7-9pm • $45 per person Seasonal Summer Brews Through the winter months, craft brewmasters concoct new and classic seasonal brews to be ready just in time for us to enjoy during the warm summer. There are classic beer styles like Saison, Lambic and Wit, with their tangy citrus notes, perfect for summer sipping; but it also seems that every spring, crafty brewmasters have come up with the most unlikely, yet delicious, flavoured beer. We’ll explore our Beers of the World wall and find out what’s new, reacquaint ourselves with timeless classics, and learn which beer styles will be perfect this summer. Beddington: June 5, 7-9pm • $25 per person MacTaggart: June 14, 7-9pm • $25 per person Shawnessy: June 28, 7-9pm • $25 per person Sommelier Cup – Season 1, The Finals! In the final round of the battle, two semi-finalists have emerged! Both sommeliers hope to achieve the coveted title of Sommelier Cup Champion, but is the pressure too much? Who’ll keep cool and composed and listen to what the wine tells them? Join us and participate in what will be a fantastic flight of wines from around the world and an epic battle of the cork dorks! An inaugural champion will be named. Oakridge: June 14, 7-9pm • $25 per person
26
Summer Cocktails The sun is shining and the weather is sweet – makes you want to sip those cocktail treats! Let’s shake, muddle, stir and blend our way to a summer full of exotic, fresh and rewarding cocktails. Let our sommelier team introduce you to brand-new cocktails, liqueurs and spirits, and rejuvenate some classics. We’ll provide the cocktail umbrellas and recipes and you can bring a friend! We’re certain you’ll be serving up pitchers of your new favourite cocktail at your next BBQ! MacTaggart: June 6, 7-9pm • $30 per person Beddington: June 7, 7-9pm • $30 per person Shawnessy: June 20, 7-9pm • $30 per person Wine-Down Wednesdays - Value Wines Under $20 In this mid-week event we’ll lead you through a flight of wines that over-deliver and don’t break the bank. Our sommelier will select hidden gems that bring true value at an unbeatable price. Let us help you find your next go-to wine! Beddington: June 11, 7-9pm • $15 per person Wines of Chile There’s no wine region like Chile! This skinny sliver of a country has some of the most unique climactic factors of any wine-growing region in the world. Chile produces wines that speak very loudly to a sense of place and unique Chilean flavour profile, from crisp fresh whites right through to some of the deepest reds. Let’s explore this wonderful country with wine selections from North to South. Crowfoot: June 5, 7-9pm • $25 per person Oakridge: June 27, 7-9pm • $25 per person Private Locker Class Please ask us how you can be a part of our Private Locker Program. Oakridge: June 6 Shawnessy: June 18
F R O M
A R O U N D
T H E
W O R L D
Each season, we offer a premium tasting of some of the world’s best wines. This event is perhaps the best yet. We’ll line up and taste, side-by-side, some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines from around the world. An opportunity to taste these wines in one sitting will not come around often. Top producers from Argentina, Australia, Bordeaux France, Canada, Chile, Italy and of course California will be represented at this rare event, which will be capped off with a selection of Chef-prepared tapas.
JOIN US FOR THE TASTING EVENT OF THE SEASON! Oakridge: May 30, 7pm • $125 per person MacTaggart: June 20, 7pm • $125 per person
27
CHâTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE
RED VARIETIES – GRENACHE NOIR, SYRAH, MOURVEDRE,
WHITE VARIETIES – BOURBOULENC, CLAIRET TE BLANC, CLAIRET TE ROSE,
A FEW MILES NORTH OF THE CITY OF AVIGNON IN THE SOUTHERN RHONE, THE CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE APPELLATION IS ONE OF THE MOST
CINSAULT, COUNOISE, MUSC ARDIN, PIQUEPOUL NOIR,
GRENACHE BLANC, GRENACHE GRIS, PIC ARDAN, ROUSANNE, PIQUEPOUL
FAMOUS WINE REGIONS OF FRANCE AND IS ABOUT 8,000 ACRES IN SIZE. IN COMPARISON, THE OKANAGAN IS APPROXIMATELY 10,000.
TERRET NOIR AND VACC ARESE
BLANC AND PIQUEPOUL GRIS
THE 18 PERMIT TED VARIETIES:
TRY CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE WITH ROASTED LAMB OR GRILLED RACK OF LAMB
The region has been producing wine since the 12th century. Its history is rooted in the papacy, and the name translates to, “the Pope’s new castle,” a reference to Pope Clement V relocating the papacy to the town of Avignon in 1308. While Châteauneuf-du-Pape may include a blend of 13 grapes, there are not many producers who use all of them. Château Beaucastel is the only estate to grow all the varieties and use them consistently in their blend. For the most part, it is predominantly made up of Grenache along with some Mourvedre, Syrah and Cinsault. As for the other nine varieties, few people would be able to tell what they are. Even if they could name them all, they probably wouldn’t be able to tell you much about them. An interesting fact about those 13 permitted varieties is that six of them are actually white! This is somewhat unconventional for what we think of as “blends” in the New World, but they are used to provide 28
aromatics and creaminess to the mouthfeel of the wine. Some of the grape varieties come in different colours, such as noir, blanc and gris, and therefore, if we count those varieties in their multiple colours, we end up with 18 varieties permitted in this wine. Grenache, Clairette and Piquepoul are the three varieties that can make both red and white wines, bringing us from 13 to 18. There are no rules that govern any minimum percentages of grapes in the wine. Therefore, it’s possible to make wine from 100% of any of the above-mentioned varieties, though Grenache accounts for about 75% of all plantings. A white version of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is allowed using only the six white varieties; this version can also be made with a single variety. 29
Co-op
Win e
Spirits
Tasting
C e ntre s
C o- op
June 2014
8220 Centre Street NE, Calgary
MONDAY
1
•
Beddington
Calendar of Events SUNDAY
Be er
TUESDAY
2
WEDNESDAY
3
THURSDAY
4
FRIDAY
5
Seasonal Summer Brews 8
9
10
11
S p i r i t s
SUNDAY
7
Summer Cocktails
•
Tas t i ng
TUESDAY
2
WEDNESDAY
3
13
THURSDAY
14
8
9
10
11
17
7
BBQ and Wine
with Boreal Cuisine
12
WORLD OF WHISKY AND COGNAC GALA CALGARY
13
Amazing, Buttery Chardonnay
WORLD OF WHISKY AND COGNAC GALA EDMONTON
18
19
20
Alsatian Adventure
21
15
16
17
18
14
WORLD OF WHISKY AND COGNAC GALA EDMONTON
19
20
Scotch Whisky 201
Interesting Italy The IGT Flight
21
Life in the Dirt An Exploration of Terroir
Speyside
FATHER’S DAY
FATHER’S DAY
22
23
24
25
26
Library Tasting Vintage Wines
29
30
SATURDAY
6
ABC
Value Wines Under $20
16
FRIDAY
5
Wines of Chile
Wine-Down Wednesdays
15
June 2014
4
WORLD OF WHISKY AND COGNAC GALA CALGARY
12
Ce n t r e s
39 Crowfoot Way NW, Calgary
MONDAY
1
B eer
Crowfoot
Calendar of Events
SATURDAY
6
W i ne
Like Us on ! Facebook
30
27
28
22
Scotch Whisky 201
facebook.com/coopwinesandspirits
24
25
26
27
Grape Battles
Zinfandel vs. Grenache “Hot Stuff”
Speyside
29
Stay informed on the latest offers, dinners and tasting events.
23
the Grape Escape Wine Spirits Beer Festival
28
Land to Hand and Sustainable Winemaking
30
Spend an evening sampling and learning about a seemingly endless selection of premium wine, spirits and beer from over 75 producers. See back cover for details.
31
Co-op
Win e
•
Tasting
C o- op
C e ntre s
TUESDAY
2
WEDNESDAY
3
THURSDAY
4
FRIDAY
5
8
9
10
11
12
13
Grape Battles
16
17
18
S p i r i t s
•
Tas t i ng
Oakridge
TUESDAY
2
WEDNESDAY
3
June 2014 THURSDAY
FRIDAY
4
5
Seasonal Summer Brews
8
14
9
10
11
12
19
20
25
26
15
21
16
17
18
19
An Evening of Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Islay
Fancy France Burgundy
29
BEER TRAVELER
28
22
Experience over 400 beers, ales and draughts from around the world. Get rewards, plus enter for a chance to win the grand prize. Visit any Co-op Wine Spirits Beer location for details.
24
25
26
Alphabet Series
Canadian Whisky
O–Z
True Patriot Love
29
30
23
Personalize Your
Wine Experience
20
The Pope’s New Castle
Scotch Whisky 201
27
14
Sommelier Cup
WORLD OF WHISKY AND COGNAC GALA EDMONTON
FATHER’S DAY
24
13
Season 1, The Finals
FATHER’S DAY
23
7
WORLD OF WHISKY AND COGNAC GALA CALGARY
WORLD OF WHISKY AND COGNAC GALA EDMONTON
from Around the World
22
SATURDAY
6
Private Locker Class
Premium Cabernet
32
Ce n t r e s
2570 Southland Drive SW, Calgary
MONDAY
1
7
B eer
WORLD OF WHISKY AND COGNAC GALA CALGARY
Malbec vs. Merlot “Velvet Touch”
15
SUNDAY
SATURDAY
6
Summer Cocktails
W i ne
Calendar of Events
June 2014
5962 Mullen Way, Edmonton
MONDAY
1
Be er
Mactaggart Ridge
Calendar of Events SUNDAY
Spirits
27
21
Alsatian Adventure 28
Wines of Chile
30
Enjoy a monthly selection of wine from your own private wine locker chosen by our in-house sommeliers based on your taste profile. See page 36 for details.
33
Co-op
Win e
Spirits
Tasting
C e ntre s
June 2014
250 Shawville Blvd. SE, Calgary
MONDAY
1
•
Shawnessy
Calendar of Events SUNDAY
Be er
TUESDAY
2
WEDNESDAY
3
THURSDAY
4
FRIDAY
5
SATURDAY
6
Grape Battles
Burgundy
Syrah vs. Shiraz “Style Clash”
8
9
10
11
16
17
18
12
13
14
• Our tasting rooms can fit 34 comfortably. WORLD OF WHISKY AND COGNAC GALA EDMONTON
19
Private Locker Class
20
21
27
28
Summer Cocktails
FATHER’S DAY
22
23
24
25
26
ABC
Amazing, Buttery Chardonnay
29
Private Events
WORLD OF WHISKY AND COGNAC GALA CALGARY
An Evening with Chef Nicole Gomes 15
7
Fancy France
30
Seasonal Summer Brews
• Basic room rental for private meetings with no alcohol served is $200, plus GST. • Private wine tasting for a minimum of 12 people with six wine styles and light snacks start at $45 per person. Rather than bartending services, we provide your guests with an educational tasting experience they won’t soon forget. • All private events can have customized themes. • Catering can be arranged through us. We have a selection of caterers that we work with and can arrange anything from simplistic to elegant. • Our tasting rooms have full hook-up for VGA connections.
Discovery Discovery
34
Wine Pack
Discover wine in a whole new way with our Discovery Wine Packs. Learn about a selection of six different wine styles and delicious food pairings selected monthly by our sommelier team.
Private rooms can be booked by calling 403-219-6025 ext. 6290 or emailing wsevents@calgarycoop.com 35
Personalize Your
Wine Experience
Co-op Wine Spirits Beer Tasting Event Rules and Regulations All event participants at our Tasting Centres will receive a 10% shopping discount to be used after their event.
the Grape Escape Wine Spirits Beer Festival An Event for Co-op Members and Their Guests Join us at the Grape Escape brought to you by Co-op Wine Spirits Beer.
Do you buy the same “go-to” wines over and over again? Are you stuck in a rut? Our Private Locker Program can open windows to the world of wine, all under the expert guidance of our sommelier concierge service. Let our sommeliers guide you on a customized wine adventure! The Co-op Wine Spirits Beer private locker program is a one-of-a-kind wine club. Each month, your sommelier will select products just for you, based on your personalized and tailored profile. Included each month are tasting notes and recipes to help you make wonderful pairings.
36
Spend an evening sampling and learning about a seemingly endless selection of premium wine, spirits and beer from over 75 producers. Tickets are available at all Co-op Wine Spirits Beer locations. Edmonton April 25 and 26, 2014 • 5pm to 9pm October 17 and 18, 2014 • 5pm to 9pm Expo Centre, Edmonton Northlands
Products sourced for this comprehensive program are hand-selected by our sommeliers, specifically for our locker members, and represent fine wines from around the globe in every price-point and in every style. These wines are often hard to come by.
Calgary November 14 and 15, 2014 • 5pm to 9pm BMO Centre, Stampede Park
Ask us how you can expand your palate with a private wine locker.
Visit coopwinespiritsbeer.com for more details.
All participants of Co-op Wine Spirits Beer events must be 18 years of age or older and may be required to show identification. Due to unforeseen circumstances, we reserve the right to postpone or cancel events. Customers will be notified as quickly as possible and given the option of being reimbursed for their tickets or rebooking into another event. We regret that we do not offer refunds for missed classes. Refunds or alternate events may be offered if notified 48 hours prior to the event. As all events involve the consumption of alcohol, we remind you that your well-being is of the utmost concern to us and ask that you arrange for transportation to and from the event should you require it. All tasting events begin at 7pm unless otherwise stated. We ask that you please arrive promptly, so you and others can fully appreciate the event. We also ask that you refrain from wearing heavily scented perfumes or colognes. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. Class and event prices do not include GST.
Find out about our latest offers and tasting events Visit our website
coopwinespiritsbeer.com
Follow us on Twitter @CoopWineSpirits
Like us on Facebook
facebook.com/coopwinesandspirits
CALGARY June 7, 2014 General Admission: 6pm to 9pm VIP Admission: 4pm to 9pm BMO Centre, Palomino Room, Stampede Park
EDMONTON June 14, 2014 General Admission: 6pm to 9pm VIP Admission: 4pm to 9pm Alberta Ballroom, Northlands Expo Centre
Join us for a spectacular tasting that features a dazzling array of whiskies from around the world, cognacs and gourmet dinner.
For more details, visit coopwinespiritsbeer.com