Meet John Akcan and his team from Oakville Jewellery
Tell us about Oakville Jewellery?
We might be new to the neighbourhood, but we’ve been in the industry for more than 35 years. In 1985, I founded Canadian Gems alongside my brother and father. Operating as Solid Gold Jewellery in Dundas Square in Toronto, we specialized in manufacturing, custom work and repairs for retailers and wholesalers.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
Our customers! In addition to the retail store, our new location features a state-of-the-art workshop equipped with a 3D printer, laser welder, lapping machine and more. This allows us to create virtually any design a customer wants, and provide 3D proofs before creating the pieces onsite. Whatever you can imagine, we can create it.
Why Downtown Oakville?
When we received notice from our landlord about a major building renovation, we took that as a sign to move. I had always loved visiting the historic lakeside community and decided to scoop up an available spot at 255 Lakeshore Road East. The store opened in fall 2019.
What are your favourite pieces to create?
Engagement rings and wedding bands. They’ve very special rings that symbolize the beginning of a new life. As a jeweller, it gives me great pleasure to be able to create such special pieces for clients. Those are pieces they’ll cherish forever.
Sybil Rampen was 20-years-old when her father bought a large parcel of land in north Oakville,back in 1950. The 14-acre oasis of meadows and trees immediately had Sybil’s heart, and she envisioned that maybe one day, the grounds would be home to an arts centre.
In 2008, that dream came true with the opening of the Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre. Sybil, who turns 91 in April, is an accomplished artist and writer and wanted to provide a space that would inspire and nurture creative talent. The centre itself is located inside a converted barn, with the original structure built in 1852.
Since opening almost 12 years ago, thousands of people have visited the gorgeous site and enjoyed the many unique workshops and courses. The courses include Sound Bath Meditation, designed to soothe the soul, relax the mind, and inspire a creative awakening, an art course where participants create ink from foraged plants and avocado stones, and a writing workshop that helps unleash the power of creativity.
But, perhaps the most unique class is the Kintsugi Bowl workshop, which is based on ancient Japanese healing practices. Instructor Rami Shami has been leading classes across the country for several years and said the workshop is especially helpful for people who work in the field of bereavement and palliative care, such as Personal Support Workers, clergy, physicians, and grief counsellors.
In the first of two workshops, participants break a bowl, and the second workshop focuses on gluing it back together again. While it sounds simple, Rami said participants practice deep listening during the process, and can even slow down and deepen their brainwaves and heartbeats. Many people, especially those who have been through a deep loss, find it very therapeutic.
“The experience creates somewhat of a ripple or an echo in peoples’ lives that leaves them shifted, to some measure,” said Rami. The magic happens, he continued, when the “process accesses the subconscious mind and draws up, in a safe and facilitated manner, any harboured expressions or feelings.”The potency of the shift is determined by the depth of the person’s engagement. “Most everyone walks away feeling different, like something has shifted or changed about them,” said Rami.
The bowl workshop is representative of many workshops offered at the art centre. However, you don’t have to participate in a course to enjoy the centre – anyone can drop by. In the gallery, there are rotating exhibits, one of which includes an art exhbit by special needs artists, showcasing the different ways they see and experience the world.
Many come to the Spring and Holiday Handmade Markets while others rent the barn, which was rebuilt into a pioneer gallery, forweddings and retreats. The gallery has space for films, workshops, receptions, book launches, lectures, meetings, and tea parties.
Then there’s the 11-circuit labyrinth that’s based on the Chartres Cathedral labyrinth in France. The path through the labyrinth is perfect for meditating, exercising, or just taking a walk in a country setting. It takes approximately 60 minutes to complete.
There is also farmland available to members who want to rent affordable plots for growing organic herbs, fruit, and vegetables. Some of the fruit and vegetables are donated to needy families.
Those wanting to visit the centre can sign-up for a group tour called Tea and Tours – an opportunity to enjoy a cup of tea in a “welcoming and engaging atmosphere.”
Whatever it is that takes you to the Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre, chances are that when you leave, you’ll walk out feeling inspired and reconnected with yourself.
… Meet Designer Steve Culumovic of Blue Skies Custom Woodwork
How did you get started?
30 years ago, a friend and I started a business rough framing homes in Oakville. From there, I became interested in the finer aspects of furniture and cabinet making and began to make that transition.
Can you tell us about your approach to woodworking?
My approach is to make everything the best way I can, not the cheapest. I’m conscientious about design and my use of materials. It’s important to me not to make a disposable product.
What types of wood do you typically work with?
Mainly local domestics; walnut, cherry and lately a lot of ash, utilizing trees affected by the Emerald ash borer. I recently finished a commission for Appleby College, building a 7’x24’ boardroom table out of ash which had to be removed from their campus.
Where do you get your inspiration from?
I love being in my shop and I’m always happy building things. Combine that with customers bringing me their ideas, sketches or photos of what they want, and I’m inspired.
What else do you build?
Kitchens, built-ins and millwork. I design and build my kitchens by hand, using durable joinery, brushed-on finishes that can be repainted, hand-turned knobs… not the kind of kitchen that gets torn out and tossed when trends change.
Pub, a word conveniently shortened from the British term public house, is defined as an establishment licensed to sell alcoholic drinks. But for many, it has the deeper meaning of a meeting place or a place of social gathering. In many places around the world, especially in small English villages, the pub is the focal part of the community. Samuel Pepys, a British Member of Parliament and famed diary keeper, described the pub in the 17th century as being the “heart of England”. The Red Lion is the most common name for a pub in Britain where there are reportedly 656 establishments with this name.
Pubs date back to Roman times, when inns or taverns started popping up along the Roman road networks where travelers could obtain refreshments. When looking for the difference between a bar and a pub, reference is often made to Britain when referring to a pub, and the word has connotations of being a place to socialize, and not just to drink alcohol. A bar is often differentiated by having loud music and a dance floor.
Oakville and Burlington have many quaint and charming pubs where patrons can get a pint of English beer and meet up with friends. Nowadays, pubs have a huge range of beverages, from craft beers, fine wines and cocktails to gourmet food offerings, but there still seems to be a leaning toward a more British way. Items such as bangers and mash, and beef and ale pie appear frequently on menus as well as the quintessential British meal, fish and chips.
The King’s Arms (kingsarmsoakville.com) in downtown Oakville is one of the oldest pubs in the area. It was first opened in the mid-70s under the name “The Duke of Bedford” and changed its name to The King’s Arms in the ‘90s. The pub specializes in craft beer with an extensive range of products and offers traditional British foodsuch as steak and Guinness pie, as well as more trendy fusion items such as truffle brisket mac and cheese.
The Abbey Arms (abbeyarmspub.ca) located in Glen Abbey, Oakville, has a specialty brunch menu on weekends for earlier diners, and also caters to vegetarians with its house-made chickpea and cauliflower curry.
The Queens Head (thequeensheadoakville.com) in downtown Oakville offers an authentic pub atmosphere and is reputed to serve the best fish and chips in the area.Be prepared to wait for a table on a Friday night.
Not to be outdone, The Queen’s Head (the queenshead.ca) in downtown Burlington opened its doors in the 1990s and specializes in house pub pies. It also features traditional pub fare such as beef liver with bacon and onions. It hosts events throughout the year, including celebrating St Patrick’s Day.
The Pipes and Taps Pub (thepipesandtapspub.com) in Oak Park, Oakville also varies its food offerings from a trendy warm tandoori spiced Atlantic salmon salad to classic bangers and mash.
With 17 beers on tap, The Stout Monk (thestoutmonk.com) at Neyagawa and Dundas in Oakville, is certainly a beer destination but also offers game-day breakfasts and screens anything from the Leafs game to premier league soccer. They offer traditional fare like bison shepherd’s pie and also signature items such as Monk wings or Monk nachos.
In downtown Burlington, you’ll find Burlington’s oldest English Pub and Alehouse – The Poacher (thepoacher.ca). Also downtown is The Dickens Pub (thedickens.ca), where you can bite into half-price wings on Tuesday or sip $5 Caesars on Saturday before 6 p.m.
With St Patrick’s Day approaching, it is worth scouting out your nearest pub to make sure you don’t miss out on all the fun – and all the green beer. Throw on your most festive Irish gear and be prepared for everything from St. Patty’s inspired dinner specials, Irish dancers, and simply, a bangers and mash good time.
Wow in this one-piece swimsuit by Opera. Fabulous striking feather designs placed on a rich electric blue background. Moulded cup with twin straps and plunge neckline.
Top off your tropical sightseeing outfits with this beautiful paper braid hat, accented with a beaded tassel hatband and contrast trim around the brim. Pair it with this ultra-chic handbag that flaunts a unique shape that would fit right in with beautiful Palm Springs circa 1963.
This organic cold-pressed blend of Rosehip, Carrot, Raspberry, Pomegranate and Camellia seed oil has many skin-nourishing benefits that will help prep your skin for the warm weather!
There’s no need to pack up and head to Florida to have fun over March Break. In and around the GTA, there are countless museums, camps, and activities the whole family will love. We’ve pulled together a list within an hour’s drive – pack some car snacks and hit the road!
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada (Toronto)
Ripleyaquariums.com/canada Practice your best fishy face! In the heart of downtown Toronto is Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. Experience life under the sea as you ride through the Dangerous Lagoon on the moving carpet, where sharks swim right over your head. There’s an indoor playground for the kids, Planet Jellies, interactive exhibits, and equally as much excitement for the kids-at-heart. Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada at 288 Bremner Boulevard, Toronto
CN Tower (Toronto)
Cntower.ca Enjoy the beauty of the city from the highest point – the top of the CN Tower. A quick elevator ride will bring you over 500-metres up in the sky with 360-degree views of the city, a glass floor, and a restaurant. A unique way to see the City that all should experience. The CN Tower is located at 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto
iFly Toronto (Oakville)
Iflytoronto.com Ready for lift-off. Come defy the law of gravity at iFLY Toronto. Enjoy indoor skydiving in a safe environment. Fly solo, with a group, or with your family and friends. Visit iFly Toronto’s Oakville location at 2007 Winston Park Drive, Oakville
Fallsview Indoor Waterpark (Niagara Falls)
Fallsviewwaterpark.com Three acres of fun-filled water activities located in the heart of Niagara Falls! Fallsview Indoor Waterpark has 16 waterslides, a wave pool, and the Beach House Rain Fortress with a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket. While perfect for the kids, there are adult-friendly activities, including adult-only jacuzzi tubs and indoor connections to hotels and casinos. Fallsview Indoor Waterpark is located at 5685 Falls Avenue, Niagara Falls
Royal Ontario Museum(Toronto)
Rom.on.ca Go back to a time when the dinosaurs roamed the earth and learn about historic artifacts at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). In the museum’s permanent galleries, take photos with dinosaur sculptures, enjoy the beauty of precious metals and gems, and look through historic artifacts from around the world. During this March Break, the ROM will also be hosting Winnie-the-Pooh: Exploring a Classic, which will feature original artifacts from the creation of Winnie-the-Pooh. Visit the Royal Ontario Museum at 100 Queen’s Park, Toronto
Oakville Museum(Oakville)
Oakville.ca/museum Explore, discover, and create at the Oakville Museum this Mark Break! Oakville Museum at Erchless Estate is offering a March Break camp from March 16-20 for ages 6 to 10. Take inspiration from the historical collection at the Oakville Museum as we explore wild watercolours, thrilling 3-D crafts, awesome abstract art and more. Challenge yourself to create a masterpiece! Register online to secure your spot. The Oakville museum is located at 8 Navy Street, Oakville
Joseph Brant Museum (Burlington)
Museumsofburlington.ca › joseph-brant Museum Re-opening after renovations in September 2019, Joseph Brant Museum offers more exhibitions and family fun. During March Break, the museum is offering a “sense”ational camp for kids to explore their five senses through a variety of activities, alongside a special exhibit running from February 1 to May 10, “Giants, Dragons & Unicorns: The World of Mythic Creatures”. Joseph Brant Museum is located at 1240 North Shore Blvd East, Burlington
Royal Botanical Gardens(Burlington)
Rbg.ca Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is the largest botanical garden in Canada. Its enchanting property showcases the natural beauty of Burlington’s trails and gardens while their extensive programming offers seasonal education and camps. Over March Break, visit the winter exhibit: “Wildlife Rescue” to learn all about endangered animals. Royal Botanical Gardens is located at 680 Plains Road West, Burlington
Hiking trails (Wherever your heart takes you)
Conservationhalton.ca/hiking Grab your hiking boots and bundle-up. Even in winter, you can enjoy many of our beautiful trails. Picturesque hiking trails can be found at popular locations such as Rattlesnake Point Conservation Area (7200 Appleby Line), Crawford Lake Conservation Area (3115 Conservation Road), and Hilton Falls (4985 Campbellville Road). Most parks have a selection of trails ranging from beginner to intermediate, although not all trails are maintained in winter months.
Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory
Cambridgebutterfly.com Be in the centre of hundreds of butterflies as they fly around you at Cambridge’s Butterfly Conservatory. The Conservatory has more than 1,000 different species of butterflies from all over the world and more than 100 varieties of tropical plants, waterfalls, Chinese painted quails, red-eared slider turtles, and more. The Conservatory also has the Chrysalis Café, perfect for a lunch stop without leaving the beauty of the facility. The Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory is located at 2500 Kossuth Road,Cambridge
As homeowners know, spring is often the busiest season. The snow thaws and our gardens are exposed, glaringly in need of cleaning, trimming, and rejuvenation.
The winter can be hard on our trees as well. Knowing when and how to prune them is an essential part of their health, ensuring that they flourish and thrive. So, why is it one of the most neglected aspects of yard work? While many of us carefully trim our perennials and shrubs, the thought of overcutting and accidentally damaging a beautiful, hearty tree can feel intimidating. However, when armed with a few tips, tree pruning can be easily done and the results are worth it!
Why prune in late winter and early spring?
According to Mitchell Watt, plant supervisor at Sheridan Nurseries in Oakville, early spring is a great time to refresh overgrown shrubs and trees to help promote healthy new growth. “Pruning before the buds break leads to something we call ‘optimum wound closure’,” he says, “It allows the trees to heal from being cut before warmer weather sets in.”
Another important reason to trim in early spring is that it allows pruners to assess the tree structure before the new buds emerge. That way you can clearly see where it is overgrown and in need of refreshing. It is also easier to identify any branches that may have sustained damage or disease over the long winter months.
Flowering and deciduous trees
Flowering fruit trees and deciduous trees are best pruned in late winter and early spring before buds, leaves, or blossoms appear. Since trees store their energy in their root system, pruning in late winter or early spring (while the tree is considered “dormant”), encourages vigorous growth to the branches that are left once spring arrives. For fruit trees, this means better quality fruit and bountiful yield. Also, don’t be afraid to trim aggressively! The harder the cutting, the greater the response to new growth will be.
If your tree is too large and you want to curb its growth, pruning after it has blossomed will help slow growth down and enable you to keep the tree to a more manageable size.
There is a small group of trees and shrubs that should not be trimmed in spring, including forsythia, lilac, magnolia, and hydrangeas. These types of plants develop their buds prior to spring and also grow buds on old wood. Trim these trees in the autumn.
Evergreens
Evergreen pruning differs slightly from other trees. Watt recommends pruning all evergreens — except pine — in early spring before any new growth starts. This means following the natural branching pattern of the tree to cut away any winter damage, as well as trimming dead foliage. This will help preserve the original shape of the tree.
With broadleaf evergreens like cedar and boxwood a process known as “selective pruning”, or trimming one branch at a time, will give better long-term results than over trimming. Aesthetically, regular shearing will give evergreens a fuller, denser look over time.
When to DIY and when to leave it to professionals
With the correct tools, pruning and reshaping a tree is a simple DIY project. But, when should we call in professionals?
Jessica, from TERRA Greenhouses in Burlington, says that pruning for cosmetic reasons is almost always a do-it-yourself task. Another time to wield the shears is when small or medium trees begin to develop suckers at their base. Since suckers are closest to the root system where the tree stores its energy, they divert it from the main plant and focus it on themselves. “Over time, you’ll start to lose the beauty of the original tree that you carefully chose and invested in,” Jessica says.
The arborists at Davey Tree Experts in Burlington have a rule of thumb — if you have to work from any great height, call in a professional! They caution that the consequences of unskilled pruning aren’t just aesthetic. The structural integrity of the tree can be compromised and turn it into a danger during storms, leaving it susceptible to lost branches or even uprooting.
Another reason to call in help is if the tree is showing signs of real sickness or disease that needs to be treated. An arborist can also help if it has been many years since your tree was pruned. They can give it a good reshaping and, with their guidance, homeowners can maintain it afterward.
Here come the frying pans and the
batter – today is Shrove Tuesday. Historically celebrated by Christians around
the world, Shrove (or Pancake) Tuesday signifies the beginning of Lent. In the
Middle Ages, the Tuesday before Lent was an opportunity for Christians to
confess their sins and ask for forgiveness, allowing them to enter Lent (and
Easter) with a clean spirit.
After confession, Christians
would return home and prepare a feast – typically consisting of pancakes. And
today, that tradition continues with Shrove Tuesday, modernly known as Pancake
Tuesday.
Pancake Tuesday has now become an
opportunity for churches, organizations, and even restaurants to gather patrons
for a traditional pancake meal while raising money for worthy causes.
This year, Pancake Tuesday falls
on February 25th and there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate in Oakville
and Burlington:
Restaurants
All Sunset Grill franchised restaurants (sunsetgrill.ca) will be offering their annual Pancake Tuesday Fundraiser. All signature buttermilk pancakes will cost only $1 in support of Canadian Cancer Society programs and research. All proceeds from each pancake sold will be donated to the Canadian Cancer Society.
From 11 a.m. through
dinner, QB Sports Bar
Grill Games (qbsports.com) in Burlington will be serving a
delicious all-day pancake breakfast. While you’re there, check out their newly
renovated bar or play a friendly game of pool.
Oakville Pump & Patio
(theoakvillepump.com) has a special treat for you this Tuesday. Enjoy 5 choices
of pancakes (buttermilk, chocolate chip, banana and chocolate, raspberry
coulis, or blueberry coulis) during lunch or dinner, served with home fries and
choice of bacon or sausage for only $12.99. Yummy!!
Did you know Audi of Oakville
(audioakville.ca) has a cafe on-site? This Tuesday at their Quattro Cafe,
Audi will be offering $5 all-you-can-eat pancakes.
Churchs
The Salvation Army Oakville
Community Church (225 Rebecca Street, Oakville) is opening its doors for a
delicious pancake feast. Enjoy delicious pancakes and help support their
Partners In Mission fundraiser, with the focus of The Bahamas, India Central,
and Bangladesh.
St. Luke’s Anglican Church in
Burlington (1382 Ontario Street) is hosting their pancake supper from 5 p.m. to
7 p.m. on Tuesday, February, 25th. Tickets can be purchased at the door
(families $20, adults $7 children $5 and lids under 5 are free). Meals include
sausages, pancakes, bacon, and ice-cream for dessert.
Join Walton United Church
Oakville (2489 Lakeshore Road, West) for their Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper on
February 25th from 5 p.m to 7 p.m. Proceeds from the freewill offering will be
donated to the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides.
This year, Appleby United
Church in Burlington (4407 Spruce Avenue) is celebrating their 17th Annual
Appleby Family Pancake Supper. Fest on all-you-can-eat pancakes drizzled with
regular or sugar-free syrup and a side of sausages (3 per adult & 2 per
child). Remember to leave room for dessert and a drink! $25 for a family of 2
adults + 2 children.
Also, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., St.
Matthew On-The-Plains in Burlington (126 Plains Road, East) is hosting a
pancake and sausage supper. All proceeds from this free-will offering will go
to St. Matthew’s Messy Church and Out 4 Lunch programs.
Yum, yum! Knox Presbyterian
Church (89 Dunn Street) in Oakville invites you to celebrate Lent and
Easter the best way – with pancakes, sausages and maple syrup. Their Pancake
and Sausage Supper is set for Tuesday, February 25th and they would
love to have you join them. There are two sittings: One is at 5:30 and the
second is at 6:30 p.m. Regardless of when you join it is $6 per person or $12
per family. They will also have pancakes and sausages that are
gluten-free.
This is just a dent in Shrove
Tuesday offerings. We encourage you to contact your local church for other
opportunities to partake in these celebrations.
For many, a cup of coffee is simply part of a daily routine. But with Oakville’s vibrant coffee scene, cafes and coffee shops are becoming more than just a place to perk up. Whether you’re looking for a cozy nook to catch up with a friend or simply a warm bevy on a cool day, Oakville has you covered. Here are some of our favourite independent cafes and coffee shops.
Vereda Central is a wonderful new addition to bustling Kerr Street. Born from the idea of finding the best possible coffee beans from a variety of Columbian veredas, or small villages, their coffee is personally sourced, and all processes of milling, roasting, and packing are done onsite. They are extremely knowledgeable, friendly and talented baristas. They also offer one of the rarest finds in Oakville – FREE PARKING in the back. Be sure to check them out and enjoy the cozy space the husband and wife team have created.
This hip, environmentally conscious café focuses on clean, healthy eating, serving everything from an (outstanding) cup of coffee to a full meal. Start your day with a modern spin on traditional breakfast offerings, with a wonderful selection of loose-leaf teas and excellent coffee, locally roasted by Brothers Coffee Roasters.
This quaint, South American style café perched on Bronte pier is truly something special. With everything from their coffee to their nibbles, organic and fair-trade, you can feel good about eating here. Enjoy coffee, music, social justice, and equality all under one roof.
Located in the heart of downtown Oakville, Tribeca Coffee Co. is the perfect little hideaway serving outstanding coffee. Cozy and community-focused, it’s a great place to work remotely, play a board game with a friend, or stop for a warm drink after a busy day exploring downtown. The inviting coffee shop specializes in offering an array of different coffee blends, from house batch brewed coffees, to single origin. Looking for a hand pour or Chemex brew? This is the place for you.
This modern, upscale French restaurant, largely known for its unique multi-course dinners, wine pairings, and chic decor, also has a stylish little cafe tucked around the corner. In the summer, their floor to ceiling windows open wide and it makes the perfect spot to enjoy an outdoor coffee and pastry. Inside, you can enjoy Sunday brunch alongside a specialty coffee, such as a black sesame latte, or take it with dessert on a Friday night. We highly recommend the Lavender Latte!
Half coffee shop, half nail studio and lounge. Customers are able to get their nails done, all while enjoying Yellow Door’s cafe and bar. They offer wines and signature cocktails, but also delectable coffees poured to perfection. The coffee is sourced from De Mello Palheta Coffee Roasters, a local micro roaster that prides themselves on their high-quality ingredients. Bonus: the cafe space is one of the most stylish in town.
Bright, fun, and truly one-of-a-kind, Marylebone Café and Creamery is the ideal spot to come together with family and friends. Their hand-crafted freakshakes, pleasure jars, and baked goods are made with premium ingredients, and each treat includes a special touch. You really have to see it to believe it.
A staple in downtown Oakville for nearly a quarter-century. This independent coffee shop is casual, friendly, and inviting. From soup and sandwiches, to hot coffee, lattes, and dessert, this café not only serves up a large selection but brings out all the stops to make you feel right at home.
Boasting some of the best croissants this side of Paris. This cozy little café renowned for its croissants offers delicious cups of coffee, tea, lattes, and an assortment of handmade baked goods. All croissants, breads and pastries are individually hand rolled and made with 100% natural butter and finest quality ingredients.
Although famous for their gelato, La Dolce Vita has a wide assortment of drinks available at their café. Smooth espresso to Italian sodas, to gelato frappes and vegan chocolate mochas . No matter what you opt for, you’re in for a treat.
Firebat Coffee Roasters is truly a one of a kind. The founders of this roastery, husband and wife team Gustavo and Leena, decided to create a bridge between Canada and El Salvador through coffee. And while they aren’t necessarily a café, you can drop in to pick up a bag of beans and sample their coffee. They are especially knowledgeable on the coffee industry, and source all of their beans from small to medium scale producers in El Salvador, including coveted Gold Cup winners that you can’t find anywhere else. The result: some of the best coffee you will ever taste. This is a true hidden gem in Oakville.
Days of Wine & Chocolatestarts on Friday, January 31st . Yes, that’s right! We wanted to make sure you had four full weekends (Jan 31, Feb 1-2; 7-9; 14-16; 21-23) to partake in this popular February passport program so we bent the rules a little and are kicking things off the last day of January.
Purchase your passes today and get ready to explore the decadently sweet and savoury art of wine and chocolate pairing. Visit the Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake weekends in February from 11am to 5pm and taste over 20 premium VQA wines expertly paired with chocolate-infused dishes.
Photo by Elena Galey-Pride
If you need a bit more convincing take a look at the mouth-watering pairings our wineries are proposing this round! Each year they seem to get even more delicious than the last. There is something for everyone, from classically sweet flavour combinations to unexpected surprises.
If you have a real sweet tooth and are looking for a decadent pairing, you will find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings including chocolate tarts, dark chocolate panna cotta shooters, brownies, shortbread cookies and more. But if savoury is your thing, we’ve got you covered too – cocoa Beef Bourguignon, chocolate infused BBQ pulled pork, white chocolate filled ravioli in a brown butter truffle sauce and chocolate chicken mole tostada are only some of the savoury options on offer.
Photo by Elena Galey-Pride
As always, this $55 touring pass can be used any weekend in February giving you plenty of time to make it out to our wineries and enjoy each unique pairing at a relaxed pace. To have an optimal experience we recommend a maximum of eight wineries per day.
The Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake encourage you to tour and taste responsibly. Please designate a driver who is not drinking and purchase one of our Designated Driver Passes or arrange transportation with one of our transportation partners. If you are traveling with a group of 8 or more guests, please have your organizer call ahead a minimum of 48 hours in advance to the wineries you plan to visit to discuss appropriate timing so they can plan for your group’s arrival and serve you better.
Download our pairingslist which comes with a handy map to help you plan your itinerary.
By Laura Vertucci, Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake
