By Michael Lowe
Setting the tone for a tasty weekend, the second annual Niagara Food and Wine Expo swung into high gear on Friday afternoon. The event, held at the Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls, features foods prepared by Niagara restaurants, wines, beers, spirits, food specialty items and cooking demonstrations.
Jennifer Campbell, Show Division Manager for Towne Media, says, “We’re excited about so much at this year’s Niagara Food & Wine Expo, but I’d have to say one of the highlights would have to be all of the fantastic Niagara based exhibitors that we are able to showcase.
From wineries to restaurants to various local vendors, we have a tremendous selection of amazing products that will really please everyone who comes out this weekend.” Campbell adds, “This year we are fortunate to have Motts Clamato at the Expo with their Art of the Caesar class on the Tasting Stage. Clint Pattemore their hot new Caesar Mixing Officer will be mixing up the latest trends in summer Caesars.”
So, according to this consumer, which booths are worth stopping by for samples? You can always expect good things from AG Inspired Cuisine. This year Chef Cory Linkson whips up a delectable chicken risotto, enriched with brie cheese and served with one of my favourite springtime treats, fiddleheads. AG’s booth is strategically positioned next to Kacaba Vineyards where you’ll find some very good wines to enjoy with that risotto.
The Terrapin Grille (Fallsview Marriot) prepared succulent “stick-to-your-ribs” braised beef shortribs on garlic mashed potato. Their presentation was one of the most walkabout friendly offerings. Layered into a martini glass, the dish was not only delicious, but it was easy to manage as we stroll the aisles.
Over at the Rockway Glen Estate Winery booth we were quite taken with the fresh new wines that are sure to be hot sellers this summer. Two wines labelled Patio 9 are delightful and, as the name implies, are only 9 per cent alcohol and well suited for patio entertaining. “Light Spritz” and “Pink” show nice fruit, fresh acidity and are also excellent food wines. The rose, made in a dry style is vibrant and delicious. The best part- these wines retail for just $12.95.
Whenever Lailey Vineyards is in the house you just have to stop by and sample the stunning offerings made by passionate winemaker Derek Barnett. A few of my picks at this year’s show are the 2011 Sauvignon Blanc, 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon and 2010 Meritage Canadian Oak.
If there’s an oyster shucker anywhere in the building, I can’t resist dropping by to slurp a few of the briny beauties they serve up. Be sure to visit Mike Langley and Kat Steeves of the Tide & Vine Oyster Company.
The pair are serving three varieties of the tasty bivalve molluscs with some unusual garnishes. Choose from “Strawberry Daquiri” (strawberry and white balsamic), “Dirty Gin Martini” (cucumber and gin), or the “Spicy Caesar.”
There are a couple of spirits worth sipping at the show too. Fireball Cinnamon Whisky packs a bit of heat but I really enjoyed the intense, spicy cinnamon essence of this ‘devilish’ potable.
Grappa is always a great after dinner spirit so I encourage you to check out the grappas on display at Regazzi Wines and Spirits. I particularly enjoyed the subtle, slightly sweet, well-balanced style of their Grappa Stravecchia. Aged 18 months in oak, this grappa was, hands-down, my favourite of the one’s offered.
For a sweet end to your day at the expo stop by to see Mary-Beth and Michael Benner at Marshville Chocolates. Chocolates, truffles, fudge and more are available to satisfy your cravings.
Tickets for the expo are available online ($8 with promo discount) or $12 without discount at the door. Sample tickets are $1 each, available in sheets of ten. The show continues Sunday, May 27, 2012, 12 pm-6pm.
Comment here