The TVC Board met August 9th, 2020 to discuss the COVID19 pandemic with a view to restarting in-person tastings in September. Unfortunately, Ontario’s 2-metre / 6 feet physical distancing restrictions for people outside of a “family bubble” or “social circle” make it impossible to hold tastings at the Faculty Club in a practicable way that would ensure the enjoyment and satisfaction of our members. Consequently, the Board has no alternative but to cancel September’s event. We are still leaving open the possibility for October and November tastings as we continue to explore practical solutions with the Faculty Club or other venues. We suspect, however, that the situation is unlikely to change for the balance of the year.
Given how few tastings we were able to offer in 2020, TVC is waiving membership renewals for 2021 in gratitude for your continuing support throughout the current year. Our major expenses are wine storage and insurance, and these are covered for 2020. New wine acquisitions are now on hold, except to complete some outstanding purchases.
We organized two virtual tastings for members over the summer, which received very limited take-up. Those who participated seemed to enjoy these informal tastings and it was a great way, in the case of Queylus wines, to meet the winemaker virtually. The Board has struck a planning committee to develop ideas for how we can keep members engaged, without being able to taste wines in person. If you have any feedback on the virtual tastings we arranged (e.g., whether you enjoyed them or not, why you didn’t participate, etc.) or any suggestions on what the club can offer while not being able to host in-person events, we would love to hear from you!
Lastly, thanks for your continued support and patience during these extraordinary circumstances. TVC will continue to provide periodic club updates and other news as they unfold. In the meantime, stay safe, wear a mask, and enjoy some great wine at home!
Yours in Wine,
Sylvia Dorosh
President - Toronto Vintners Club
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