2015 Spring Events Magazine

SPRING

40 Over

Tastings, Festivals, Classes & More!

Fresh & New!

TEQUILA & TACOS MAY 5 POUTINE PAIRINGS JUNE 16

MALBEC DAY FESTIVAL April 16 OH, CANADA! FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL June 30

Dear Friends & Valued Customers, With the sun shining in the window and the temperature outside well above average for March, I can’t think of better time to release our new Spring Events Calendar. It’s filled with over 40 fresh and exciting classes and events for you to enjoy.

Our entire Trusted Expert Team is ready for the spring season and can’t wait to begin hosting you in what we all feel is one of our most innovated and entertaining lineup of events in over 22 years of educating Calgarians. We’re also super excited to be introducing a new off-site dinner series called Plates & Palates that will be launching this summer. This new program will bring together incredible winemakers from around the world, with some of Calgary’s best culinary talent. These evenings are destined to become a fantastic new way for you to learn and sample wonderful pairings we are sure will leave you excited about the world of food and wine, and all of the magical combinations that the two can create together.

As always, we want to thank you, our friends and customers for being our muse. Your loyal support and all of your feedback and great ideas allow us the opportunity to create new ways for you to learn and enjoy our stores. Without you, we would not be the business that you have come to know and love and we are truly grateful that you allow us to be part of your lives by helping you choose wines, beers and spirits that you bring to your tables and share with your family and friends.

From our entire team I would like to raise a glass to you and wish you a happy spring and convey how much we’re looking forward to seeing you again soon.

Erin Rosar, Sommelier Director of Retail Operations & Customer Experience Main Location & Corporate Office

OUR PEOPLE

Kitchen Team

Willow Park Wines & Spirits would not be where it is today without our dedicated team who have each made it possible for us to grow into Canada’s largest privately owned retailer and industry leader. They are the face and heart of our business and we are proud of each member of our work family and the integral part they play in our success.

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How to Purchase Tickets:

Table of Contents 4

April Events

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Grown Up Ice Cream

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Auction Save The Date

Payment is due at time of registration. Willow Park Wines & Spirits reserves the right to cancel any class. We will notify participants as quickly as possible and full refunds or credits will be offered.

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Spring Grill Recipes

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Cooking with Peggy Perry

All participants of events at Willow Park Wines & Spirits must be 18 years or older and may be asked to show valid identification.

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May Events

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Tequila Cocktails

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June Events

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Malbec World Day

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Beer Quiz

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Plates & Palates

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WSET

Tickets may be easily purchased online at www.willowparkwines.com In-store at our main location at 10801 Bonaventrue Dr. SE, Calgary, AB By phone at 403.296.1640 ext 277

All event participants will receive a 5% shopping discount card to be used after the event.

Refunds or credits will be issued if Willow Park Wines & Spirits is notified within 48 hours of the event. No refunds or credits will be issued for missed classes.

Please book early to avoid disappointment as our classes fill up quickly.

No infants, strollers or children are allowed into any private or public tastings.

Note: We ask that all participants please refrain from using personal fragrances during all tasting events.

Event menus are subject to change without notice.

Willow Park Wines & Spirits reminds you to drink responsibly.

Event Colour Guide Wine Tastings Beer Events Scotch Events

Please do not drink and drive.

Spirit Events

www.facebook.com/willowparkwines Twitter: @willowparkwines

Festivals

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April 2015 April 1 Don’t be fooled! Rosé is real wine, really! | 7-8:30pm $35 With winter almost over, it’s time for us to remind everyone just how delicious and versatile rosé wines can be. Made all over the world, rosé wines have long been favourites of wine professionals. Tonight our team of Trusted Experts will showcase a collection of their favourites for the patio season that’s just around the corner.

April 10 Meads of the Round Table – formerly Mutton and Mead 7-8:30pm $35 Get ready for the heavy anticipated return of our 3rd annual Alberta Meadsters Gathering. This one-of-akind event will transport you back to medieval times, as we sit at the famous long tables of old and sit in wonder as we’re guided through some of the most succulent nectar of Alberta. Presented by our three local meaderies: Chinook Arch, Fallen Timber, and Spirit Hills, along with tasty pairings to match.

This evening will leave you feeling like a knight of days gone by and that you’ve just celebrated slaying your very own dragon. Costumes are encouraged.

April 11 Game of Rhones Master Class – Royal Rhone Reds 6-7:30pm $60 Celebrate the Reds of the Rhone in this Master Class designed to enlighten you with a collection of vineyards and the unofficial Grand Cru wines from the regions most awarded house, Maison Chapoutier. You’ll leave this event with a deeper appreciation for the regions’ terroir, vineyard practices, label laws and of course, the winemaking art that creates these cellar-worthy and collectable wines.

April 11 Game of Rhones Festival 7-9pm $40 Are you ready for a room filled with royal Rhone styled wines from around the globe all looking to win your favour with their winemaking talents using the Holy Trinity of Southern France, Syrah, Grenache and Mourvedre? You’ll be asked to vote for your favourite and help to choose the wine that will not only claim the room and the throne but the title of “King of the Rhones” as well. Don’t miss out on your chance to participate in this epic battle of skill and talent. PRIZES! April 12 WSET LEVEL 1 Award in Wines | 10-6 $349 For those new to the world of wine, this is an ideal beginner’s course for first time employees to the wine industry and the interested consumer alike.

Qualifications are assessed by a multiple-choice paper of 30 questions.

Please visit our website for a full course overview.

April 15 Malbec, Meat and More - An Evening of the Big and Bold 7-8:30pm $45 Red meat lovers rejoice! This evening will be all about the sinfully good pairings of Alberta Beef and Argentinian Malbec’s along with a few other treats that we have up our sleeves as well. If red meat and red wine are true hedonist pursuits for you then you won’t want to miss this event.

April 14, 21, 28 Spirit & Mixology Academy 6:30-9pm $149 Are you a cocktail fan, have a passion for artisan-crafted spirits or just want to learn more about the different styles and flavours of spirits that you have to choose from? Then you’re in luck; we’ve created a brand new course just for you.

Our new WPWS Spirit & Mixology Academy has been designed to leave you with a solid understanding of the history, production methods, flavour profiles and classic drink recipes for spirit styles from around the globe.

You’ll also learn the basics of cocktail creation and exciting liqueurs styles that are sure to add a ‘wow” factor to your bartending repertoire, no matter what your experience level.

The course is divided into three separate evenings: 1. History, Distillation & White Spirits 2. Amber & Dark Spirits 3. Cocktail Magic & Liqueurs Course booklet included.

April 16 Malbec Connoisseur - An Exploration of Regions and Styles | 6:00pm $60 Begin your celebration of World Malbec Day with this special connoisseur event led by Trusted Expert, Peter Smolarz. This special tasting has been expertly designed to highlight the exciting regional expressions and flavours of some of the highest rated malbecs available in Alberta. If you thought you knew malbec, prepare to have your “hat blown off”.

EVENT TICKETS ARE EASY TO BUY! 4 |W ILLOW

PA R K W I N E S & S PI R I T S

Get them in store or online by visiting: willowparkwines.com

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Don’t be fooled – Rosé is real wine, really! | $35

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Beer Academy 3/3

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WSET LEVEL 1 10am-6pm $349

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WSET LEVEL 2 2/4

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WSET LEVEL 2 10am-6pm $799 1/4

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Spirit & Mixology Academy 6:30pm-9 $149 1/3

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28 Spirit & Mixology Academy 3/3

Malbec, Meat and More: An Evening of the Big and Bold | $45

Malbec 16 Connoisseur $60 Malbec Day Festival | $40

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“Beer” the Real Spring Spritzer $35

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April 22 “Beer” the Real Spring Spritzer | 7-8:30pm $35 The same thing happens every year, the snow melts, the plants start to sprout and birds start to sing; it’s springtime. Join Dave the Beer Guy as he guides you through a refreshing tasting that will help you transition from fuller winter beer styles into lighter, lively brews.

April 19, 26 May 3, 4 WSET LEVEL 2 Award in Wines & Spirits 10am-6pm $799 For those wishing to delve deeper into the world of wines and spirits, this course is popular with trade professionals and consumers alike.

The program will be assessed by a multiple-choice paper of 50 questions.

April 24 What Pairs with Take Out? – Pairings for Your Favourites 7-8:30pm $50 If you’re like us, you grab dinner on-the-go every week. We’ve asked our team to put together their favourite collection of pairings for take-out classics such as pizza, Chinese food, subs, sushi and more. This evening will enlighten you on how food-on-the-go can be paired up just as expertly as a fancy multi-course dinner and make dining at home a real adventure.

May 4th - Exam Day 6:30-9pm

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Game of Rhones Master Class | $60 Game of Rhones Festival | $40

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18 Taste-to-Buy MALBEC SALE

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What Pairs with Take Out? Pairings for Your Favourites | $50

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Riedel The Wine Glass Company Stemware Tasting $99

April 16 Malbec Day Festival 7-9pm $40 Join us in the global celebration of Malbec Day, as we join over 43 countries hosting tasting festivities in honor of this deep black grape. Get ready for a room filled with exciting, big and bold wines from Argentina along with mouthwatering dishes from the kitchen to tempt your taste buds.

Please visit our website for a full course overview.

10 Meads of the Round Table $35

April 30 Riedel The Wine Glass Company Stemware Tasting 7-8:30pm $99 Does the glass matter? Come and discover what industry professionals already know, that Riedel glasses do make a difference in your experience with wine, its tastes and aromas. You’ll be your own judge as you’re guided through an awe-inspiring tasting hosted by our guests from Riedel, Canada. This tasting also includes a Riedel Sommelier Tasting set for each participant to take home with them.

David Michiels Scotch Expert

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BROWN SUGAR-BRANDY SAUCE Makes about 2-1/4 cups Ingredients: • • • • • • •

1/3 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces 1 cup tightly packed dark brown sugar 1/3 cup granulated sugar 2/3 cup heavy cream (36%) 2-1/2 tablespoons brandy ½ cup sultana raisins if desired ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans if desired

Directions: Combine the butter, sugars and cream in a small, heavy bottomed saucepan. Stir this mixture over low heat until the sugar dissolves, then increase the heat to medium and bring the sauce to a very gentle boil, stirring all the while.

Cook 5 more minutes, then remove from the heat and stir in the brandy or other liqueur along with raisins and nuts. Serve immediately, or cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate until needed, up to 3 days. To rewarm, either microwave the uncovered sauce on low power or transfer the cold caramel to a saucepan and stir over low heat until warm.

Adapted from: In the Sweet Kitchen by Regan Daley

AMARETTO CHOCOLATE SAUCE Ingredients: • • • • •

1 cup whipping cream 1/2 cup granulated sugar 6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons Amaretto liqueur

Directions:

Place cream, sugar, chocolate and butter in a medium saucepan. Simmer on the “simmer” setting for 10 to 15 minutes, until chocolate and butter are melted. Stir well, then whisk in the Amaretto. Serve warm, or refrigerate until ready to use. Reheat by placing in a double boiler over simmering water or by submerging storage container in warm water before using.

Makes approximately 2 cups of sauce.

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LIMONCELLO SYRUP Ingredients: • • • •

Like Tasty Trea ts?

Don’t miss Mid way Pairings - Coun tdown to Stampede on June 23!

¼ cup fresh lemon juice ¾ cup sugar ¼ cup Limoncello liqueur Lemon zest, from 1 average-size lemon

Directions: Combine lemon juice and sugar in a medium-size microwave safe bowl. Stir well and place in microwave on high power for 2½ to 3 minutes, or until mixture is boiling and sugar is dissolved. Watch carefully to make sure mixture does not boil up over the top. You can also place ingredients in a medium-size saucepan and bring to a boil. Cook until sugar is dissolved.

Add lemon zest and Limoncello and stir to combine.

Cool, then pour into a bottle or jar and store in the refrigerator covered tightly.

Drizzle over fresh fruit, yogurt, ice cream and desserts or stir a spoonful into a glass of prosecco for a delicious summer cocktail.

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Fire Up The

GRILL! Some of our favourite spring time recipes from our kitchen to yours!

Grilling Fruit An Easy Dessert Idea and Incredible Cocktail Ingredient The assortment of fresh fruit that’s available through the spring and summer gives us a fantastic opportunity to enjoy them in many different ways and grilled fruit can be an easy and delicious quick dessert or a new dimension in your favourite fresh fruit themed cocktail.

Join us for BBQ Pairings The Secret is in the Sauce on June 10

Here are some quick grilling hints and tips to get you started: • • • • • •

De-stem and clean fruit. Leaving skin on if desired Cut into bit sized pieces or halves. If using smaller pieces a barbeque wok will work best to grill the fruit In a large bowl toss fruit with a light coating of olive oil so that it won’t stick to the grill Place fruit on hot grill preferably using indirect heat leave on a few minutes until you can see grill lines forming or smell the fruit sugars caramelizing.

Serve warm fruit with ice cream, whipped cream or your choice of dessert For cocktails, mash warm fruit into puree, muddle with herbs. Add spirit and enjoy.

Grilled Peach Whisky Sour Ingredients: • • • •

2 peaches halved and pitted Splash of olive oil 2 oz fresh lemon juice – two lemons 8 oz bourbon

• • •

1 cup soda water 1 cup ice cubes Lemon slices for garnish

Directions: 1. Toss and coat peaches in olive oil. Place on grill cut side down. Grill, turning often until sugars begin to caramelize but peach is still firm (5 – 8 minutes) 2. Remove from grill and place on cutting board to cool. Remove skins and cut into small chunks. Muddle peaches and lemon juice together into a chucky paste.

3. Add in bourbon and a cup of ice cubes and stir until well mixed. Divide mixture into 4 glasses and top up with soda water. Garnish with lemon slice.

4. Cherries and strawberries can also be added for additional flavours into the cocktail.

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PA R K W I N E S & S PI R I T S

cooking with

Peggy Perry Peggy’s Favourite Albacore Tuna Tataki Serves 4

Ingredients: • • • • •

Grilled Steaks with Dried Herbs & Garlic Served with a Bitter Greens Salad and Shaved Parmesan

My favourite marinade for steaks, especially bone in Rib Eye. This amount is good for rubbing 2 to 3 lbs of meat. I serve this with wedges of lemon for a spring like touch.

• • •

½ lbs. fresh or frozen albacore tuna 1 tbsp freshly cracked black pepper 1 tsp kosher salt 1 tbsp vegetable or peanut oil, for pan searing 2 – 3 tbsp ponzu sauce (citrus-flavoured soy sauce that is widely available) 3 tsp wasabi paste 3 tbsp mayonnaise ½ cup crispy fried shallots (bought or freshly made by thinly slicing shallots, then shallowfrying until golden) ½ cup freshly grated daikon (Japanese radish) ½ jalapeno pepper, cored seeded and thinly sliced

Ingredients:

• •

•

Preparation:

• • • • •

8 cloves garlic minced fine, I prefer to use a garlic press 4 TB olive oil 1 TB each of dried oregano, basil and thyme (omit any you don’t like) 2 TB of fish sauce, omit if you wish Salt and freshly ground pepper Wedges of lemon

Directions: Combine the above and rub over the steaks. To serve Italian style, slice the steaks thinly and cover with a salad.

Salad Preparation: Chiffon leaves of watercress, arugula, frisée or other peppery/bitter greens that have been dressed with: 2 TB Lemon juice, 1 TB fish sauce, 2 TB olive oil, salt pepper finish with slices of parmesan. Great with a side of new potatoes.

1. Roll tuna in pepper, then season with salt. Heat oil in a skillet until very hot and sear tuna on each side for about 30 seconds. Remove from heat, let cool, then cover and refrigerate until using.

2. To make wasabi mayonnaise: mix the wasabi paste and mayonnaise together and set aside.

3. Thinly slice tuna across the grain, then fan the slices out over your snappy serving platter. Drizzle with a generous amount of ponzu sauce, pouring the rest into side bowls for your guests for personal dipping.

4. Top tuna with crispy shallots, drizzles of wasabi mayo and a scattering of grated daikon and jalapeno. Serve with ponzu sauce.

Adapted from House & Home Magazine

THIS IS INSPIRED BY A SIMILAR RECIPE CREATED BY CHEF CARL OF TERRA IN NAPA VALLEY

TRUSTED EXPERT APPROVED RECIPES

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SUNDAY

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2 Top Wines of Maison Chapoutier $150

3 WSET LEVEL 2 3/4

4 WSET LEVEL 2 EXAM DAY 6:30-9pm

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Tequila & Taco Pairing | $35

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Mother’s Day Brunch

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6 Mexican Inspired Cocktails | $35

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World’s Greatest Sauvignon Blancs $45

Sauvignon Blanc and Friends for the Patio | $25

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7 Trip Around Tequila | $35

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Picnic Pairings – Sandwiches, Salads and Snacks | $35

Cider Festival $35

27 Dave’s Summer Whisky Picks $35

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Cerveza Cerveza Cerveza | $35

Muddled Cocktails – Part II | $35

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28 The Many Colours of Rum $35

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Taste-to-Buy SAUVIGNON BLANC

23 Taste-to-Buy CIDER/BEER

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Red Wines for Summer Sipping $25

May 2015 May 2 Top Wines of Maison Chapoutier – Master Class 7-8:30pm $150 We are honored to bring you a tasting of some of the most iconic and longest-living wines of France as we showcase three famous Parcellaires of the Northern Rhone from Maison Chapoutier. During this evening you’ll have the incredible experience of tasting two vintages from each parcellarie along with a special treat at the end, with a sampling of the Vin de Paille. This Master Class will be guided by Wine Room Director, Peter Smolarz. Seating is limited please book early.

Evan Eckersley Scotch Expert 10 | W I L L O W

PA R K W I N E S & S PI R I T S

May 5 Tequila & Taco Pairing 7-8:30pm $35 We’re celebrating Cinco de Mayo by hosting a night of a couple of Mexico’s favourites - Tacos & Tequila. Our team will lead you in an entertaining evening filled with stories of the history of this special day along with an exciting lineup of tequilas, tequila based cocktails and tasty tacos to try.

OLÉ!

May 6 Mexican Inspired Cocktails: So much more than the Margarita | 7-8:30pm $35 If you thought that the margarita and tequila shots were the only drink inspirations to come out of Mexico then you’re going to be happy to hear that there are many more tasty concoctions for you to learn about and try. Before you leave this class you’ll know all about the refreshing citrus based Paloma, a slush style cocktail called the Toronha and a new twist on the classic Old Fashioned recipe that is sure to bring some extra spark to your patio season.

May 7 Trip Around Tequila 7-8:30pm $35 Known as the spirit of Mexico, tequila has long been a beloved drink by many around the world. But while its popularity continues to grow, few know the story behind the liquid in the glass that was said to delight the gods in ancient times. Spend the evening with us as we discover the traditions and styles of this favourite drink in a class that is sure to delight tequila fans of all levels.

May 8 Cerveza Cerveza Cerveza 7-8:30pm $35 Get ready for summer with us as we open up some of our favourite beers for the season! Lager fans you’re going to love finding out what’s on Dave the Beer Guy’s list for the warmer months for must-have light and fresh styles along with a few secret treats up his sleeve as well. Be sure to join us for the fun.

May 10 Mother’s Day Brunch & Pairings | 12-2pm $10 Donation We have made it easy to please Mom at Willow Park Wines & Spirits. Join us for our fourth annual Mother’s Day Brunch! Easy on the pocket book, and delicious on the palate. Our team will provide a buffet lunch with lovely wines and appetizers.

May 12 The World’s Greatest Sauvignon Blancs – Master Class | 7-8:30pm $45 Sauvignon Blanc is one of the most beloved white grape varieties around the globe and to tie in with this year’s Sauvignon Blanc Day happening on May 16th, we’ve put together a special collection of some of the greatest expressions of sauvignon blanc that the world has to offer. This tasting will include classics from Bordeaux, New Zealand and California!

May 13 Sauvignon Blanc and Friends for the Patio – $25 and Under Value Whites for Summer Sipping 7-8:30pm $25 We’ve challenged our Trusted Expert Team to showcase some of their favourite white wines for summer with the added twist that they all have to be $25 or under. This will be an engaging evening filled with great wines that are all not only delicious but also super friendly to your pocket book.

Don’t miss out on this class filled with hidden gems for your glass. Don’t miss out on our part two of this series at the end of the month when our team shares their favourite red value picks.

May 14 Picnic Pairings – Sandwiches, Salads and Snacks | 7-8:30pm $35 Our team loves casual summer dinning “al fresco” so we’ve put together an evening of some of our favourite pairings including wines, beers and cocktails that go with cold fried chicken, assorted sandwiches, berry crumbles, potato salad and more.

May 20 Muddled Cocktails – Part II 7-8:30pm $35 Back by popular demand! We had so much fun at this class last spring that we just had to bring it back.

You’ll learn all about classic muddled cocktails along with an assortment of some of our teams very own secret recipes as well. This class is guaranteed to showcase an exciting collection of muddled combinations for your glass.

May 22 Cider Festival - “Extra Fancy” Fest | 7-9pm $35 A festival for the Apple Connoisseur who wants to help us celebrate a fruit that is said to “keep the doctor away” if one eats it everyday. This evening will feature some of our most exciting offerings including sweet, dry and fuller flavored ciders. This is sure to be an incredible “eve” for refining your pallet to the splendor and solace of le pomme.

Follow us on Facebook & Twitter for exclusive offers, ticket giveaways and spring recipes! facebook.com/willowparkwines

@willowparkwines

May 27 Dave’s Summer Whisky Picks – Hidden Gems 7-8:30pm $35 Join David Michiels, our very own Scotch Guy as he shares his musthave whisky picks for summer and explains what to look for when you’re picking out a new one to try.

May 28 The Many Colours of Rum 7-8:30pm $35 If you’ve wandered down the rum aisle lately you might have noticed how many different styles are available to choose from and it might leave your head spinning a bit with trying to decide which ones to choose. So we’re here to help. We’ve created this special class that will give you the opportunity to explore, learn and taste an outstanding assortment of rums from many different islands throughout the Caribbean along with try a few classic cocktails as well.

May 29 Trusted Expert Favourites: Red Wines for Summer Sipping – $25 and Under Great Value Reds 7-8:30pm $25 Did you know that red wines could be chilled? Spend the evening with our Trusted Experts as they share all their hints and tips for serving red wines this summer along with showcasing a flight of some of their favourite value reds that are perfect for summer grilling and entertaining. If you’re a red wine fan this event is definitely one you won’t want to miss.

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Cocktail Creations Recipes

The Original Ingredients: • • • • • • •

1 ½ oz Tequila ½ oz Fresh Lime Juice ¾ oz Crème de Cassis Club Soda Lime Slice Cherry Ice

Directions:

Join us for our first ever Tequila & Taco Pairing on March 8th!

Tequila Sunrise Soak up the sun and enjoy the perfect cocktail for all your spring time entertaining!

The original tequila sunrise was created between 1930 and 1940 at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel by bartender Gene Sulit where many guests enjoyed it when they visited the hotel. However, the cocktail that we know and love today is the recreation that happened in the 1970’s in southern California.

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The recreated version quickly became a favourite drink of the rock & roll scene with Mick Jagger and his band loving them and the Eagles naming a song after it on their Desparado Album. Today, the cocktail is recognized by the International Bartenders Association and is one of the most well-known tequila based cocktails around the world.

PA R K W I N E S & S PI R I T S

Pour tequila and lime juice into a tall glass over ice. Next fill the rest of the glass with club soda.

Pour crème de cassis over top of drink so that it will filter through and sink to the bottom. Garnish with lime slice and cherry.

Today’s Tequila Sunrise Ingredients: • • • • • •

4 oz Orange Juice 2 oz Tequila ½ oz Grenadine Orange Slice Cherry Ice

Directions:

Scoop ice into glass. Pour orange juice and tequila over top and stir. Slowly pour grenadine around the edge of the glass so that it will slowly sink to the bottom. Garnish with orange slice and cherry.

Peter Smolarz Fine Wine Director

Styles of

TEQUILA A Quick Lesson

Tequila is made from the agave plant, which is a succulent style of plant that looks a bit like the top of pineapple or an aloe vera plant with thinner leaves. The nectar or juice from the plant was known as “honey water”, by the Aztecs who prized the plant as a gift from the gods. Each year over 300 million agave plants are harvested for tequila production.

White, Silver, Bianco or Plata This tequila style is normally not aged and is bottled directly after the distillation process is finished. Some tequilas of this style will have had up to 2 month barrel aging to settle and increase the sensation of smoothness on the finish. This style is the most known style of tequila.

Gold, Joven or Joven Abocado A silver tequila with added ingredients such as caramel colouring or sugar based syrup to give a smoother finish and give a more “aged” appearance. Gold tequilas are a very popular style for mixed drinks.

Reposado (rested/aged) Resposado tequilas are the first level of “rested or aged” tequilas.

The spirit must be aged between 2 and 11 months in wood barrel or storage tanks, such as whisky, wine or bourbon barrels.

Tequila Anejo (extra aged) These tequilas must be aged for at least one year in barrels that do not exceed 600 liters to be classified as an anejo style. This style is usually darker in colour and very smooth on the palate.

Tequila Extra Anejo (ultra aged) A new classification level added in 2006 that can be used on tequilas that are aged for three years or older and aged in barrels less than 600 liters. These tequilas are very complex and are sought after by collectors and tequila fans.

Cocktail Creations Recipes

Picante de la Casa – A Sweet And Spicy Tequila Cocktail Ingredients: • • • •

2 oz. tequila 1 oz. fresh lime juice ¾ oz. agave nectar 12 cilantro leaves, plus 1 sprig for garnish • 1 (¼”) piece of a Fresno chile pepper, plus 2 rings for garnish

How To:

Muddle tequila, lime juice, agave, cilantro leaves, and ¼” piece of chile in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake vigorously; strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with cilantro sprig and chile rings if desired.

Adapted from Miami’s Soho Beach House W I L L OW PA R K W I N E S & S PI R I T S

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June 2015 June 9 Prosecco Cocktail Competition | 7-8:30pm $35 Join us as we welcome some of the cities most talented bartenders and mixologists for our Summer Cocktail Competition using one common ingredient – sparkling Prosecco.

Each bartender will be fighting for your votes as they look to be named the winner of this summer challenge and showoff their mastery of creating magic in the glass. Don’t miss out on being part of this exciting judging panel.

June 10 BBQ Pairings – the Secret is in the Sauce | 7-8:30pm $35 The world of BBQ sauces is expanding rapidly so we want to help you know what to pair with your latest grilled creation. This class is all about knowing how to find the secret bridge ingredient in the sauce and spices so that you can pair wines, beers and cocktails at your next backyard get together like a pro. We’ll cover everything from sweet, smoky and spicy.

June 11 Funky Fresh Farmhouse Bier | 7-8:30pm $35 When people think about beer styles, lagers and ales always come to mind.

However, these styles also have a wild side and these beers are known as Farmhouse ales. Originally brewed out in farming communities in France and Belgium, these beers are known for their terroir and unique flavour profiles giving them edgy and “different” flavours. This evenings is sure to broaden your horizons with respect for craft and small batch brewing philosophies, while opening up your palate to a brand new beer experience.

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PA R K W I N E S & S PI R I T S

June 12 Iced Tea & Lemonade Cocktails | 7-8:30pm $35 Regarded as one of the most traditional beverages of summer, lemonade has long been a cool and refreshing treat enjoyed while beating the heat. Spend the evening with us as our team shows you how to take this beloved drink and turn it into “wow” cocktails that are sure to have everyone looking at this common quencher in a whole new light.

June 18 Couple Retreat – Parisian Picnic | 7-8:30pm $45 Spend a special evening with us as our Trusted Expert Team transports you to France with a Parisian inspired picnic pairing class. This event will delight your senses as they lead you through a multi-course picnic experience paired with an incredible selection of French wines. We’re sure after this evening you’ll have a whole new appreciation for picnicking in style.

June 16 Perfect Paired Poutine: A New Twist on an Old Favourite | 7-8:30pm $45 Our first poutine pairing class was such a hit that we just had to bring it back! If you’re a poutine fan you won’t want to miss out to see the creative and traditional versions we have in-store for you along with perfectly paired craft brews, wines and even a cocktail or two. This class is sure to fill up fast!

June 19 French Fling | 7-9pm $40 Once again, we have our most anticipated early summer festival! This French Fling Festival makes French wine easy to enjoy and understand.

Forget about the grape varieties and enjoy the flavours and diversity of these French wines by their regional characteristics. French cheeses are specially ordered and over 50 wines will be poured from the Loire Valley, Champagne, Chablis, Alsace, Burgundy, Rhone Valley, Languedoc, and Bordeaux.

June 17 Classic French Cocktails – Midnight in Paris 7-8:30pm $35 If you can’t make it to Paris this season don’t worry because we’re bringing the city’s most classic cocktails to you. Paris is known to be the muse of some of the most renowned and iconic writers and artisans of our time who all found inspiration in the city’s beauty and its inspired libations. Prepare to be transported back to an elegant time as we show you how to shake, stir and pop your way to true French high style.

June 21 Fathers Day BBQ & Pairings 12-2pm $10 Donation Find great Father’s Day gift ideas for the wine, whisky, spirit and beer loving dad in your life. Show dad you care, from wine accessories or whisky festival tickets we have something that will be perfect just for him. While you’re shopping enjoy beverage samples paired with tasty treats. Come and enjoy a Molson’s BBQ with your $10 donation.

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Visit our website or email events@willowpark.net for more info!

SUNDAY

MONDAY

7

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

8

9 Prosecco Cocktail Competition $35

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15

16 Poutine Pairings $45

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22

Father’s Day Sale & BBQ

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BBQ Pairings – the Secret is in the Sauce | $35

Classic Cocktails of France | $35

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24 Celebrate Jean Baptiste Day | $45

30

FRIDAY

11 Funky Fresh Farmhouse Bier $35

17

Midway Pairings Count down to Stampede | $35

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THURSDAY

10

18 Couple Retreat Parisian Picnic $45

25

Bring on the Heat, Choose my Treat! Beer, Cider and Mead Tasting $35

SATURDAY

12 Iced Tea & Lemonade Cocktails | $35

13 Taste-to-Buy SPIRIT SALE

19 French Fling | $40

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20 Taste-to-Buy FRENCH WINE SALE

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Taste-to-Buy CANADIAN WINE SALE JUNE 26-JULY 2

Oh, Canada!

Wine & Food Festival | $40

June 23 Midway Pairings – Count down to Stampede 7-8:30pm $35 With the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth just a few days away we thought we’d have some fun and teaming up some midway favourites with delicious wine, beers and cocktails to help get you ready for the craziest 10 days of summer. You can look forward to incredible pairings served with corndogs, mini donuts, fried pickles, hot dogs and more. This evening is sure to be eye-opening, delicious fun.

YAHOO! June 24 Celebrate Jean Baptiste Day – French Canadian Summer Treats | 7-8:30pm $45 We’re celebrating Jean Baptiste Day with an evening filled with delicious French Canadian dishes and specialties paired with French Canadian craft brews, Canadian wines and a few French ones as well. You’ll be enthralled with the flavours of mouth-watering meat pies, cheeses and desserts that all share their roots in French Canadian history.

June 25 Bring on the Heat, Choose my Treat! Beer, Cider and Mead Tasting | 7-8:30pm $35 Bring on the heat and join our very own Dave the Beer Guy as he shares his must-have choices of beers, ciders and meads that he feels should be on everyones “must-have” list this summer. Don’t miss out on this kickoff to summer.

June 30 Oh, Canada! Wine & Food Festival | 7-9pm $40 Be Canadian and proud! Join us for a celebration of Canadian wines and winemaking talent at their best as we celebrate Canada Day in true Willow Park Wines & Spirits fashion. This festival is sure to impress and leave you smiling at how fantastic our Canadian vinters are performing. We’re expecting special visitors from across the country for this special Canadian celebration.

JULY EVENTS July 10 No Wimpy Wines!

Ravenswood Stampede BBQ 12pm-2pm FREE with $10 Donation to the Vintage Fund Get your boots on and join us as we pair up California’s Ravenswood wines with Calgary’s very own HolySmoke BBQ for an afternoon grill’n and sip’n of lip-smacking delicious BBQ and wines. Please help show Ravenswood Winemaker & Wine Hall of Fame member Joel Peterson, a true Calgary Stampede welcome!

Tickets are free with a $10 donation to The Vintage Fund.

Visit our website at: www.willowparkwines.com for more information on upcoming events and how to purchase tickets online.

W I L L OW PA R K W I N E S & S PI R I T S

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CELEBRATE WORLD MALBEC DAY WITH US!

April 16th, 2015

TICKETS $40 Join us in the global celebration of Malbec Day, as we join over 43 countries hosting tasting festivities in honor of this deep black grape. Get ready for a room filled with exciting, big and bold wines from Argentina along with mouthwatering dishes from the kitchen to tempt your taste buds.

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PA R K W I N E S & S PI R I T S

3. __________________ said the following quote “Beer is proof that God loves us.”

A. Ben Franklin B. Winston Churchill C. Albert Einstein D. Abraham Lincoln 4. Who is the Patron Saint of Brewing?

QUIZ: how well do you know beer?

Want to test your beer knowledge against our very own Dave ‘The Beer Guy’? Take this short quiz and find out how much you know!

A. Saint Patrick B. Saint Bernard C. Saint Peter D. Saint Arnold 5. During the Middle Ages during times of religious fasting Monks were still permitted to drink how much beer in a day?

A. Cup B. Quart C. Liter D. Over a gallon 6. How many individual beer brands does Belgium have?

A. Over 200

1. What year was the first beer bottle sold?

B. Over 100

A. 1845

C. Over 300

B. 1901

D. Over 400

C. 1850 D. 1896

7. By 1860, Canada had how many breweries?

A. 10

2. The oldest known beer recipe was written 4000 years ago by the:

B. 75

A. Egyptians

D. 350

B. Babylonians C. Sumerians D. Greeks

C. 150

Don’t miss our NEW beer event, Funky Fresh Farmhouse Bier on June 11 W I L L OW PA R K W I N E S & S PI R I T S

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Answers: 1.A 2.C 3.A 4.D 5.D 6.D 7.C

INTRODUCING!

Plates & Palates THE ART OF FOOD & WINE AT THE TABLE Willow Park Wines & Spirits is pleased to launch a new food and wine experience – Plates & Palates. Designed to bring the true art of food and wine to the table, showcase inspirational talent of chefs and winemakers from around the world, and create a truly interactive learning experience for our guests.

We look forward to seeing you at our table!

Summer 2015 Dining Events Monday, May 25th

Kensington Riverside Inn Alberto Torelli, Winemaker and General Manager of Collazzi Winery, Italy

Thursday, July 9th

Kensington Riverside Inn Emma Swan, CEO of St SupĂŠry Estate Vineyards & Winery, California

Tuesday, September 8th

Kensington Riverside Inn Beth Miliken, President & CEO, Spottswoode Estate Vineyard & Winery, California

Visit our website for more details about these exciting dinners in partnership with

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PA R K W I N E S & S PI R I T S

SAVE THE DATE! The Art of

SPANISH TAPAS & WINE with Chef Andrew Gass & Michael Bigattini

Wednesday, June 24th from 6:30 – 9:30pm Barcelona Tavern Ready to go on field trip with Michael Bigattini? We’ve reserved a private space at our favourite Spanish restaurant, the Barcelona Tavern, to bring you an incredible evening out filled with authentic Spanish tapas and pairings. Your palate will be delighted as Chef Andrew Gass works his magic with each dish and your host Michael Bigattini leads you through his expertly paired choice for each one.

A great evening out for couples or your best group of friends!

More information on ticket price and menu coming soon.

Michael Bigattini Senior Product Consultant

Andrew Gass Chef - Barcelona Tavern

EARN YOUR WINE & SPIRIT QUALIFICATION WITH

WSET Level 1 & 2

GLOBALLY RECOGNISED QUALIFICATIONS Whether you are looking to join the wine and spirits trade, to progress your career, or just to pursue your passion, the WSET will have a course to suit you.

WSET LEVEL 1

WSET LEVEL 2

Sunday, April 12 10am-6pm | $349

Sunday, April 19 & 26 and May 3 & 4 10am-6pm | $799

For those new to the world of wine, this is an ideal beginner’s course for first time employees to the wine industry and the interested consumer alike.

For those wishing to delve deeper into the world of wines and spirits, this qualification is popular with trade professionals and consumers alike.

This qualification is assessed by a multiple-choice paper of 50 questions.

AWARD in WINES (QCF)

This qualification is assessed by a multiple-choice paper of 30 questions.

AWARD in WINES and SPIRITS (QCF)

May 4th - Exam Day 6:30-9pm

W I L L OW PA R K W I N E S & S PI R I T S

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Corporate OfďŹ ce & Main Store 10801 Bonaventure Dr SE Calgary, Alberta T2J 6Z8 403.296.1640 info@willowpark.net

Willow Park Wines & Spirits at Bow Trail 4012 Worcester Dr SW Calgary, Alberta T3C 3L3 403.777.1234 btrail@willowpark.net

Willow Park Wines & Spirits Eau Claire 162, 200 Barclay Parade SW Calgary, Alberta T2P 4R5 403.262.9463 eauclaire@willowpark.net

www.willowparkwines.com

Opening Soon!

Willow Park Wines & Spirits Regina - Grasslands 33, 4715 Gordon Road Regina, SK 306.585.1661 regina@willowpark.net