Toronto Vintners Club 50th Anniversary Dinner – A Night to Remember!

The Toronto Vintners Club (TVC), in collaboration with Winetasters of Toronto, hosted a spectacular celebration marking TVC’s 50th Anniversary. This milestone event brought together members and guests from both clubs for an evening of exceptional food, wine, and camaraderie.

The evening began with a sparkling reception, where guests were welcomed with a flute of Champagne and a selection of mouth-watering hors d'oeuvres. Ahi Tuna Cups, Goat Cheese and Candied Pecan Bites, and Smoked Salmon with Cream Cheese delighted the palate. The Champagne lineup included renowned names such as Charles Heidsieck, Marc Hébrart, and Diebolt-Vallois and more! Each one brought its own charm—from the elegant toastiness of the Heidsieck to the zesty citrus notes of Diebolt-Vallois—perfectly enhancing the diverse appetizers.

Guests then took their seats for the first course: Gemelli Pasta with Roasted Mushroom, Garlic, Parmesan Cream, Reggiano, and Pangrattato. This rich and savory dish was beautifully matched with the 2005 Domaine Laroche Chablis 1er Cru Les Fourchaumes Vieilles Vignes. The Chablis, with its steely minerality and matured notes of lemon curd, hazelnut, and subtle flint, balanced the creaminess of the pasta and elevated the earthy mushrooms. A refreshing bonus Rosé from the club’s cellar was also served, adding brightness and a fresh contrast to the dish.

The second course featured three delicious options to pair with one of the evening’s most anticipated wines: the 2011 Château Trotanoy Pomerol. Whether guests chose the AAA Beef Tenderloin, the Braised Short Ribs, or the Vegan Braised Cauliflower, the Trotanoy delivered an elegant pairing experience. This Merlot-dominant Bordeaux, with its deep aromas of black plum, graphite, and truffle, displayed velvety tannins and a long, complex finish. It added depth to the red meat dishes and offered a luxurious contrast to the hearty vegan option. To add further dimension, each table also enjoyed an aged Sangiovese from the cellar—adding a rustic, cherry-laced profile that beautifully complemented the second course.

Midway through the evening, the President of TVC, Shauna Sexsmith delivered a heartfelt speech and read a nostalgic letter from Ted Turner, the club’s founder. His words brought everyone back to the club’s humble beginnings and celebrated its enduring legacy. Alan Gardner, a director of TVC in the early years, also shared a few touching stories, adding warmth and humor to the night.

For dessert, guests were treated to a luscious Crème Brûlée with Fresh Berries, paired with the 2009 Château Coutet Sauternes. This golden nectar offered aromas of apricot, honey, orange zest, and botrytis spice. Its sweetness and acidity cut beautifully through the richness of the custard and enhanced the freshness of the berries, ending the meal on a sublime note.

To top it all off, many members brought special bottles from their personal collections to share, creating an atmosphere of generosity and discovery that lasted well into the evening. The 50th Anniversary Dinner was a truly unforgettable event, marking a milestone in the club’s history with elegance, joy, and exceptional wine.

We are immensely grateful to our members and guests for being part of this incredible journey—and we look forward to many more years of shared passion and discovery!