Port of Wines: A showcase of local and international flavours
On Friday, September 30th, at 7pm, I departed for a trip around the world with some of Nova Scotia’s finest chefs.
My journey was highlighted by sampling a wide variety of wines from regions around the globe, and enjoying some of the tastiest hors d’oeuvres our province has to offer along the way. Best of all, the entire trip only cost me $65! And, in spite of visiting 12 countries, I experienced no lost luggage or broken guitars.
Sound too good to be true? I’ll let you in on a little secret… I booked my trip via the 2011 Port of Wines Festival, a celebration of the viticultural treasures of 12 countries, including Australia, Canada, Chile, France and Italy.
The annual Port of Wines Festival has been a staple on the Halifax event scene for a number of years, serving as a great opportunity for Haligonians to get decked out in their finest evening attire and sample wines from around the world, as well as those wines in our own backyard.
Nova Scotia wines were prominently featured throughout the evening and based on my experiences, our local wines can hold their own on a world stage.
Adding to the attraction of the event is the role that Taste of Nova Scotia members play in complimenting the world-class wine. This year, Port of Wines attendees sampled tasty morsels from White Point Beach Resort, Saege Bistro and Harbour City Bar & Grill.
What was on the menu you ask? Why don’t I let some of the province’s finest chef’s tell you for themselves (set to the tune of Halifax-based artist Rich Aucoin’s “The Creatures We Know”):
Chefs Alan Crosby (White Point Beach Resort), Sean Doucett (Harbour City Bar & Grill) and Geir Simensen (Saege Bistro) and their teams were working on overdrive to bring local flavour to Port of Wine’s hundreds of enthusiastic guests throughout the night. With sampling options like ancho-braised local beef tacos, smoked haddock and bacon chowder as well as Willy Krauch Smoked Salmon – there was something for everyone to pair with their favourite wine.
The next time you are looking to travel the world with the culinary comforts of home close at hand, consider booking a vacation via the Port of Wines Festival. Great local food, great wine, and international flavours await, without the hassle of lost luggage or airport security – and no restrictions on how many bottles you can bring home to enjoy later!