COMING UP: Sidney Sip & Savour (March 27th 2014)

What better way to spend a spring evening in March than at an event which promises a remarkable experience sampling all the deliciousness the peninsula has to offer –  everything’s local and fresh; from cheeses to wines and chocolate.

Tides Adventure Group has been planning this remarkable experience for many months collecting an impressive array of farmers, purveyors and artisans along with the talents of executive chef Graham Little of Island Culinary Services. Chef Little will collect ingredients from farmers such as Mitchell’s, Reimer and Kildara for a locally inspired gourmet menu in the Bodine Room, following a wine and cheese reception.

During the day Mary Winspear will host an invite-only symposium titled; ‘You Are Where You Eat’ – food sustainability for a healthy community aimed at local farmers, first nations, government and NGO’s with the hope of increasing awareness towards the importance of food harvested from our own community, and setting the stage for the evenings events.

The open-to-the-public reception at 6 pm commences at the ‘Sip’ portion of the event. With the sweet sounds of Charlie Baker playing in the background diners sample wines from DeVine, Muse, Symphony, and Domain Rochette as well as ciders from Sea Cider and a collection of local cheeses, and dairy and gluten free chocolate made by new- to- the- area Pure Lovin’ Chocolate.

After the reception, diners move into the Bodine Room for the ‘Savour’ gourmet dinner. Long tables set in a star pattern will feature The Craig Henderson Trio playing in the center, setting the stage for delectable dishes such as locally smoked salmon and shellfish, and spring mix salad greens with kiwi blackberry vinaigrette. Chef Littles’ creativity shines through local beef simmered in Vancouver Island Pale Ale, and B.C. Wild mushroom Ravioli in creamy garlic sauce to name just a few choices. I hate to ruin the anticipation of dessert – suffice to say that it won’t disappoint and will close the meal out perfectly with a cup of Level Ground Coffee! Along with dinner the local wineries featured will have a selection of wines for purchase to compliment your meal.

This event supports the Young Farmers Society with donations from the proceeds. So gather some friends, or make new ones at the event and challenge yourself to choose a new, favourite, purely local ingredient to enjoy forever after. Tickets only available in advance. Visit MaryWinspear.ca or call 250-656-0275 for details.

—By Kirsten Tyler