By Nate and Nick St. Michael-Leblanc
Last Christmas Nick and I were at our friends’ meet & greet. We chatted about the foods and wines (of course) we enjoy. During the conversation, someone mentioned UBrew Centre was for sale. And so it was written in the stars because we now own it and have renamed it Hop & Grape UBrew.
New to our shop are Limited Edition 2018 releases. One we are very fond of is Fume Blanc Hawke’s Bay New Zealand. (Pre-order by Nov. 30, available in January 2019.) This lovely white wine, made with a sauvignon blanc with tropical fruit on the pallet has complex layers of gooseberry and melon. Bright acidity and hints of grassy mineral notes expertly harmonized with a gentle creamy vanilla oak. It is beautifully paired with goat cheese, seafood platters and chicken or pasta dishes with creamy sauce.
Last May Nick and I travelled to Dublin, Ireland, and toured the Guinness Brewery where we tried a new food pairing: The Black Velvet. This is something you have to try with friends at your next celebration. You need eight ounces of Guinness stout and eight ounces of sparkling wine. Pour the beer down the side of a chilled pint glass or champagne flute halfway, then carefully pour sparkling wine over a bar spoon to preserve the layers. Do not stir, serve as is, with the layers separated. Slowly as the beverage is drank, the layers will combine. This drink can be paired with a rich chocolate dessert.
598 Falconbridge Rd., Unit 14
705.524.3044
Hours of Operation:
Tuesday to Friday 10 am to 6 pm
Saturday 10 am to 2 pm
Closed Sunday and Monday
Evening appointments available upon request.
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