Happy New Year everyone! Hope you all had a fantastic holiday season and are ready to welcome all that 2015 has to bring! And what a way to start off the year as Canadians! With huge Congratulations to our Juniors in hockey for bringing home the GOLD in the World Junior Championship! Way to go team!
Yes you were there Georgia, and what excitement!!!
We think we can safely say Canada is hockey…and hockey is Canada!!!
But do you know what else is Canada? Something that consistently brings home the gold, also known as liquid gold! Its our Icewine! Ooh yea, got that right, that delectable, luscious, seductive dessert wine also known as the Nectar of the Gods!
This special wine that literally put Canada on the world-wide wine map! What makes it so special, how its made, and no we don’t put the grapes in a freezer, but some do,a commercial freezer that is…so we’ll learn all about it, the risks, the rewards, and the amazing taste profiles!
And to help us do all that and also chat about some of the other award winning still wines coming out of this region… Joining us today, 3 guests from different wineries, all located in our beautiful Niagara-on-the-Lake and stops on our Shimmer of Gold Icewine Tour coming up January 25th.
We are going to start off by welcoming Stacey Mulholland from Canada’s most awarded winery Jackson Triggs…founded in 1993, a must see and experience winery. Listen to Stacey on the show at 7 minutes eleven seconds into the show.
Winemaker Marco Piccoli.
1st winery stop: Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate.Canada’s most awarded winery and have been named “Best Canadian Winery” an unprecedented number of times in international and domestic competitions. Meet winemaker Marco Piccoli.
Two Sisters Vineyards
Then we’ll welcome Adam Pearce, the winemaker for Two Sisters Vineyards, one of the newest kids/wineries on the block in Niagara… a sister duo, Melissa & Angela Paoliceli, this winery garnering huge accolades right out of the gate on Adam’s wines, and with an award winning chef in their restaurant at the winery Kitchen 76 where we will be stopping in for a superb lunch on our tour!! Listen to Adam on the show at 19 minutes fifty one seconds into the show.
2nd winery stop: Two Sisters Vineyards. Niagara’s newest premium winery. VIP wine tasting and enjoy a delicious local lunch at the winery.
Pillitteri Estates Winery
And to top off this trifecta… From the largest estate icewine producer in the world, revolutionary in producing some of the world’s most rare icewines…Charlie Pillitterri, the CEO of family owned Pillitteri Estates Winery will join us… to chat about the world wide thirst for this specialty wine Today they produce over 13 different styles of Icewine, far more than any other winery in the world.
Charlie Pillitterri, the CEO of family owned Pillitteri Estates Winery
3rd winery stop: Pilliterri Estates Winery.Enjoy this stunning wintery in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake and meet proprietor Charlie Pillitteri.Experience a VIP cellar experience.
We’ll close off the show with a special guest. The proprietor of Strada West Eat and Sip House, located in Niagara Falls, where we celebrated Susanne’s birthday. It was a great night,so much fun, we’ll chat with Tom Roberto, the proprietor of this “have to be in the know” place to go, its where the locals go! Everything home made and delish! Listen to Tom on the show at 49 minutes twenty eight seconds into the show.
https://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/images_CanadaHockeyGame.jpg7841325Susanne Seelig-Mensehttps://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/WineLadiesLogoTransparent.pngSusanne Seelig-Mense2015-01-14 13:54:532018-05-03 16:43:50On this week’s audio podcast…Icewine, Canada’s Nectar of the Gods!
With Owner Doug Grecco of Cucci Restaurant, Oakville.
On February 17, approximately 75 guests gathered at Cucci Restaurant in Oakville.
“Our mom passed away in 2009 from Heart and Stroke disease, and we saw first-hand the devastation of this kind of illness”,says Susanne. According to Statistics Canada, there are over 50,000 strokes in Canada each year, resulting in one stroke occurring every 10 minutes. It is the number one killer of women in Canada and the third largest killer in Canada for men and women. And says Georgia, “When you offer people food and wine, you’re opening up your heart with love, and a glass of red wine every day is good for the heart and the soul. “As The Wine Ladies we want people to know that.”
Experience three award winning winemakers and wineries from the prestigious Niagara region including Marco Piccoli from Jackson-Triggs, Viticulturist Matt Speck from Henry of Pelham and new kid on the block GreenLane Winery with winemaker Dianne Smith.
Viticulturist Matt Speck from Henry of Pelham and new kid on the block GreenLane Winery with winemaker Dianne Smith.
The evening was a spectacular success and The Wine Ladies TV was there to capture it all. Many thanks to our generous partners and sponsors for making this all possible including:
Wineries: Jackson-Triggs, Henry of Pelham, GreenLane Estate Winery,
Silver Sponsors: Fortune Jewelers, O’Connor MacLeod Hanna LLP,
Bronze Sponsors: Jason Greenlees RBC Dominion Securities, mdapps.ca,
The Wine Ladies Wine Tasting Dinner for the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario.
To view pictures from the evening click Here.Stay tuned for the next The Wine Ladies event to be announced soon.
https://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Screen-Shot-2018-03-23-at-12.03.08-PM.png446658Susanne Seelig-Mensehttps://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/WineLadiesLogoTransparent.pngSusanne Seelig-Mense2011-03-16 14:18:002018-04-14 14:34:21A glass of red wine is good for the heart and the soul! Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, Cucci Restaurant
In the green room just prior to The Canadian Tenors in concert at Jackson-Triggs Twilight In The Vineyard. One on one interviews with these singing sensations! We are FANS! — with Remigio Pereira, Fraser Walters, Georgia, Susanne Seelig-Mense, Clifton Murray and Victor Micallef.
The powerful voices of The Canadian Tenors, recently on Oprah, Dr. Phil and at the G20, join us this week on location at Jackson–Triggs Winery
The Canadian Tenors performed at JT’s Twilight in the Vineyard Series. An incredible day was spent at the stunning Jackson-Triggs winery in the Niagara Peninsula. From a walk in the vineyard with Frank Hellwig, Director of Viticulture to a chat and wine tasting with the charming winemaker Marco Piccoli , a chat with co-founder Allan Jackson, an extraordinary winemakers dinner in the barrel room and a personal one on one interview with The Canadian Tenors and then…. a magical concert by The Canadian Tenors in the breath taking amphitheatre. All of this and more of this incredible day captured for you to enjoy. Be sure to join us! Watch the highlights here.
The Wine Ladies dressed in fashions from Silkeborg ( at the NOTL location) and jewels by SNO of Sweden. Designer Charlotte Sparre exclusive to Silkeborg.
Many thanks to Gina and Deborah for the fabulous fashions provided by and Silkeborg.
Two Silkeborg locations in Oakville and Niagara-On-The-Lake as well as the stunning jewellery provided by SNÖ OF SWEDEN so we looked red carpet ready to meet The Canadian Tenors. As well as to T-Zone Oakville for keeping us in tip top shape to meet the stars.
If you missed last week’s TV show not a problem, watch The Wine Ladies TV podcasts and archived shows on from anywhere and anytime.
Also, don’t forget to set that radio dial to The Jewel Radio Network at 88.5 FM in Toronto, 98.5 in Ottawa and 107.7 in Hawkesbury on line at every Sunday morning at 8:30a.m. to connect with The Wine Ladies radio show.
BREAKING NEWS!
Get Personal Twitter Messages from The Wine Ladies! We’ve just started, come and tweet with us! http://twitter.com/TheWineLadies.
https://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Screen-Shot-2018-04-17-at-7.19.16-AM.png558697Susanne Seelig-Mensehttps://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/WineLadiesLogoTransparent.pngSusanne Seelig-Mense2010-08-13 14:00:002018-04-17 07:34:20Standing ovations for The Canadian Tenors at Jackson Triggs Twilight In the Vineyard concert series.
Actress Georgina Reilly with The Wine Ladies Talking Wine With The Stars, TIFF 2009
Georgina Reilly looked barely old enough to enjoy the glass of Jackson-Triggs Methode Classique sparkling wine.
Having assured us she was over 19 we poured her a glass to celebrate her success! At such a young age this talented actress is determined to get her dream. To be a “star.” and she appears to be well on her way. At the young age of 23 this actress is experiencing her 3rd film at the Toronto International Film Festival.
Georgina played in the hit movie directed by Bruce McDonald the “Ponty Pool”. This years’ entry, a short film “A Hindu’s Indictment of Heaven” where she plays one of the leads. No rest for this young actress as she is also currently shooting Death Row Records CEO Lara Lavi’s film “Sons Two the Grave” in Toronto. The film also stars Tonya Lee Williams, Dorian Harewood, K.C. Collins (“Flashpoint”) and child actor Cameron Miles Jones on board.
Each year, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) draws thousands of international filmmakers, stars and media to Toronto…
and for this years festival (Sept. 10-19), The Wine Ladies are entering the exciting world of web TV.
Georgia and Susanne (The Wine Ladies) set up their temporary TV studio at The Windsor Arms, 18 St. Thomas
Street in Yorkville – ground zero for the film festival – and have conducted brief interviews with the stars, filmmakers, writers, international VIPs and media representatives discussing favourite wines, what wines go with which movies at this years’ festival, favourite movies about wine (e.g.: Bottle Shock, Sideways, A Walk in the Clouds, Under the Tuscan Sun) – the ultimate in wine TV! Celebrity guests are invited to enjoy a glass of wine with The Wine Ladies
https://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Screen-Shot-2018-02-25-at-11.03.51-AM.png284531Susanne Seelig-Mensehttps://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/WineLadiesLogoTransparent.pngSusanne Seelig-Mense2009-09-29 12:00:012018-02-25 11:15:24Seasoned young starlet Georgina Reilly reveals her next film, Death Row’s Sons Two The Grave.
https://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/lifestletTiff.png522602Susanne Seelig-Mensehttps://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/WineLadiesLogoTransparent.pngSusanne Seelig-Mense2009-09-26 12:00:012018-02-25 14:04:49The Wine Ladies, Red Carpet ready at TIFF from “head to toe”.
Actress Raven Dauda, Talking Wine With The Stars, TIFF, The Wine Ladies TV
Positive energy radiated the room as the stunning award winning actress entered the set.
This multi-talented, artistic lady is a talented stage actress having won the prestigious Dora Mayer Moore award ( 2009). Her portrayal in Miss Julie: Freedom summer (Outstanding Performance by a Female in a Featured Role in a Play or Musical ) was the award winning role.
In 2009 Raven starred in “Intimate Apparel” a love story set in New York in 1905, amid the ragtime. Last year she played the lead role of Esther, an ambitious and independent African-American woman. Esther has aspirations in conflict with turn of the century society. A gifted seamstress who has gained financial independence by sewing elegant undergarments for socialites and prostitutes. She dreams of opening her own boutique. When George, a charming Caribbean islander employed in the construction of the Panama Canal, writes to her, a romance begins that promises to help her realize her dreams.
Raven Dauda’s superb performance is quite simply the highlight of the evening…wonderfully nuanced…she breathes life into the awkward, slightly prim and dowdy 35-year old woman rushing toward love.”
– The Toronto Star
The hit play “Intimate Apparel” is returning back to the Canadian Stage Company for a return performance in 2010.
Quite the fashionista Raven has also started her company Designs by Raven or DbR a line of striking and original jewelry designs. The “A” list stars have already taken notice and have been snapping up her designs.
The Wine Ladies are entering the exciting world of web TV.
Each year, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) draws thousands of international filmmakers, stars and media to Toronto and for this years festival. (Sept. 10-19)
Georgia and Susanne (The Wine Ladies) set up their temporary TV studio at The Windsor Arms, 18 St. Thomas
Street in Yorkville – ground zero for the film festival – and have conducted brief interviews with the stars, filmmakers, writers, international VIPs and media representatives discussing favourite wines, what wines go with which movies at this years’ festival, favourite movies about wine (e.g.: Bottle Shock, Sideways, A Walk in the Clouds, Under the Tuscan Sun) – the ultimate in wine TV! Celebrity guests are invited to enjoy a glass of wine with The Wine Ladies.
https://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Screen-Shot-2018-02-24-at-12.52.36-PM.png289538Susanne Seelig-Mensehttps://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/WineLadiesLogoTransparent.pngSusanne Seelig-Mense2009-09-17 12:00:012018-04-16 19:22:59Jackson-Triggs star winemaker Marco Piccoli reveals his wine secrets at TIFF
An over-sized black SUV limo occupies the driveway; it looks like an armored vehicle, ready to take us on our journey, one full of promise, where East will meet West at the Jackson-Triggs Winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake. www.jacksontriggswinery.com
“Must be carrying some precious cargo we joke”, as we step up into the limo. Yes, there seated are a dozen or so wine critics, writers, sommeliers, and personalities! notables such as Tony Aspler, wine critic and author, the iconic, stunning Sara Waxman, Founder and Editor of DINE Magazine, Adam Waxman, handsome and devilish son of Sara, actor and contributing writer for DINE, wine author Konrad Ejbich and the dashing Paxton Allewell of the iYellow wine club, just to name a few.
We are here this evening to enjoy an event that Jackson-Triggs hosts several times through out the summer called “Savour the Sights”. http://cms.jacksontriggswinery.com/SearchObjects.aspx?sys-Portal=1&sys-Class=Event+Date&
Del Rollo, National Director of Hospitality is excited to share the inaugural format this evening, which he describes to us as “East Meets West”, not only in wine but also, cuisine.
Jackson-Triggs Okanagan winemakers Brooke Blair and Derek Kontkanen have flown in for the occasion to showcase their wines along with those of Niagara winemaker Marco Piccoli. We are also joined by Great Estates of the Okanagan Executive Chef Roger Planiden, who packed a variety of food “contraband” in his suitcase, as well as newly appointed Chef David Penny of Niagara. How will the foods and wines differ from east to west? With the Okanagan boasting the only desert in Canada, and with many more sun hours will they overpower the wines of our marginal climate here in Niagara-on-the-Lake?
We disembark and are graciously handed a perfectly chilled glass of JT sparkling wine Methode Classique, from Niagara-on-the-Lake, Delightful, delicious and a perfect pairing to a variety of hors d’oeuvres being passed around as the crowd mingles.
Caption: Del Rollo welcomes the guests against the back -drop of Jackson-Triggs vineyards
One of the greatest hits! is the truffle oil sprinkled popcorn we all savour with our bubbly; the contrast of the richness of the truffle and the crisp acidity of the sparking wine gets top marks from all.
Caption: Truffle popcorn hits culinary heights with JT’s Methode Classique
Two long tables are set for the fortyish of us in the sleek, modern and inviting Jackson Triggs building, in front of row upon row of vines. Behind is the lively kitchen where a trio of chefs is performing the magic. Let the competition begin!
Caption: Guests anticipate the first course in the Tasting Gallery
The first course is paired with a Riesling duo. 2007 Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate Proprietors’ Grand Reserve Riesling and 2006 Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Delaine Vineyard.
Terroir speaks loudly here, as the Okanagan is more profound in fruit, but Niagara’s Riesling is reminiscent of petrol!a good thing, and a light dose of minerality! This “Tasting Gallery” continues with a second course pitting the 2008 Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate Proprietors’ Grand Reserve Sauvignon Blanc with the 2007 Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate Proprietors’ Grand Reserve White Meritage. Individual palates prevail as our group takes ownership of their favorite. More Bordeaux in style, the Meritage seems to attract the larger number, particularly with a little time in the glass.
Caption: Jackson-Triggs winemaker Derek Kontkanen explains the splendour of his Okanagan Sauvignon Blanc
The Barrel Cellar, is our next stop, as we descend a flight of stairs! mind the stilettos, to the aroma of romance and of tradition, and are seated amongst row upon row of oak barrels at several well-dressed tables. The following two courses are delicious, paired with two Chardonnays, a Shiraz from the Okanagan and a Delaine Vineyard Syrah. We love the Syrah, with plum, cassis and white pepper, supported by firm yet soft tannins. Both wines are winners though, having won multiple awards both at home and internationally.
Caption:
2006 Delaine Vineyard Syrah $29.95
Recent Awards: Gold at Challenge Int’l du Vin in Bordeaux
Gold, Best of Category at All Canadian Wine Championships, Windsor
Caption:
2006 Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate Grand Reserve Shiraz $25.99
Recent Awards: Silver, Best in Class at Int’l Wine & Spirit Comp in London
Double Gold, Best of Nation at San Francisco Int’l Wine Comp
Allan Jackson addresses the group and speaks of the importance of building a great team; “it starts in the vineyard” he says “from the vineyard to the winemaker to the cellar, the marketing and sales team and even finance”, “everyone has to be on board to build a sustainable winery”. Jackson-Triggs has received “Best Canadian Winery” accolades an unprecedented 20 times in global competitions. Using the analogy of a golfer, Mr. Jackson goes on to say “a 30 handicap golfer can get a hole in one, likewise a 30 handicap winery can get a gold medal, but can they do it 3 years out of 5, with consistency?”
Mr. Jackson exudes passion, commitment, and a true sincerity. We like him.
Our East Meets West Savour the Sights concludes at the Estate Lounge, back upstairs, two flights this time. We overlook the vineyards as we savour a variety of icewines paired with delectable desserts. A perfect long satisfying finish to an evening that started with a fine mousse dancing on our palates and concluded with a delectable sweet sensation, fine Riesling icewines and a Cabernet Franc.
We’d like to add congratulations to Allan Jackson on the arrival of his first grandson this month, as well as congratulations on your Jackson-Triggs retirement and best wishes on your future adventures in wine.
So long Mr. Jackson, until we toast again!
Pic of Susanne in the fermenting cellar with Del Rollo and Konrad, put here
Caption: Susanne enjoying the tour of the JT winery
https://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/WineLadiesLogoTransparent.png00Susanne Seelig-Mensehttps://thewineladies.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/WineLadiesLogoTransparent.pngSusanne Seelig-Mense2009-07-29 12:00:012018-04-05 12:33:38Jackson-Triggs hosts inaugural East Meets West wine dinner to rave reviews!
