Upcoming Events

AWS Annual Shiraz Tasting with Steak Frites Dinner Faculty Club, May 23, 2012


The Syrah grape was introduced into Australia in 1832 by James Busby., an immigrant who brought vine clippings from Europe, and it is almost invariably called Shiraz. Today it is Australia's most popular red grape, but has not always been in such favour; in the 1970s, white wine was so popular that growers were ripping out and burning unprofitable Shiraz and Grenache vineyards, even those with very old vines. Many factors, including the success of brands like Lindeman’s and Jacob’s Creek, as well as Rosemount in the US and Canada, were responsible for a dramatic expansion of plantings during the 1980s and 1990s.

However, it’s worth remembering that Australia is a very large place and climatic conditions vary widely. Shiraz responds accurately to weather conditions and it acts as a true barometer of its surroundings. This evening will an opportunity to examine the wines with these points in mind. 

We’re pleased to announce that Julian Hitner, Wine Columnist, Wine Judge, International Sommelier, & Restaurant Consultant and a Shiraz lover, will take us through the tasting of the following wines. 

The Tasting Line-up 
2001 Plunkett Blackwood Ridge, Strathbogie Ranges, Victoria 
2002 Katnook Estate, Coonawarra, SA 
2002 Barossa Valley E&E Black Pepper, Barossa Valley, SA 
2003 Heath 100 Year Old Vines, Barossa Valley, SA 
2003 Hardy’s Oomoo, McLaren Vale, SA  
2003 Jim Barry McRae Wood, Clare Valley, SA 
2003 Hugh Hamilton The Rascal, McLaren Vale, SA 
2003 Voyager Estate, Margaret River, WA 

This is an evening not to be missed, so book early. Event price, all inclusive, tips and taxes, with all wines, and Steak Frites dinner is $69.00 for AWS Members and $84.00 for Guests. Guests can pay the members price if they become members now, which will include their membership to June 30, 2013. As this event is limited to 60 seats, book early. The Faculty Club is located at 41 Wilcocks Street on the U of T Campus, one block south of Harbord and east of Spadina. Reception wine at 6:30 pm. Tasting at 7:00 p.m. in the Upstairs Dining Room 

Registration Form can be downloaded here, completed and mailed to Australian Wine Society of Toronto, c/o Bernard Nottage, 71 Old Mill Road, Suite 310, Toronto, ON, M8X 1G9. The link to on line registration is http://shiraz2012.eventbrite.com

Future Events

Summer Solstice Dinner, June 20, 2012, Location TBA

Cellar Treasures Wine Walkabout, The Vintage Conservatory, July 24, 2012.

Annual General Meeting and Barbeque, August 19, 2012, Location TBA

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