In 2023, Ribera del Duero actively engaged with the Canadian market through a series of impactful initiatives.
LCBO Training Tour
Advanced Sommelier Joris Gutierrez Garcia led a comprehensive training tour in the Greater Toronto Area, spanning 10 LCBO stores. The primary objectives were to enhance the knowledge of LCBO product consultants and employees, advocate for Ribera del Duero wines, and familiarize them with the diverse offerings available at LCBO. Joris showcased and tasted eight distinct Ribera del Duero wines during the training sessions, receiving accolades from 48 LCBO employees and significantly raising awareness in Ontario.
Western Canada Sommelier Competition
Western Canada saw the selection of Sean Nelson as the new ambassador for Ribera del Duero after a rigorous event held at the Vancouver Club. The event included an exclusive masterclass led by Véronique Rivest, the 2nd Best Sommelier of the World 2013. Following the masterclass, trade professionals participated in a tasting session featuring over 25 wines from the region. Sean Nelson emerged victorious in the subsequent sommelier competition, earning the title of Ribera del Duero ambassador for Western Canada. His win not only bestowed him with the honor of representing the region, but also included a trip to explore the picturesque Ribera del Duero, offering insights into the winemaking process, vineyard visits, diverse wine tastings, and immersion in the regional culture and gastronomy.
SAQ Training Tour
The Best Sommelier of Canada 2023, Joris Gutierrez Garcia, also extended his expertise to 30 SAQ stores in the Greater Montreal Area. One hundred SAQ employees benefited from the training sessions, during which they sampled 15 Ribera del Duero wines. Joris's passion for Ribera del Duero wines, coupled with his sommelier experience at Montreal's esteemed "Le Club Chasse et Pêche" restaurant, resulted in a successful training initiative that left a lasting impression on participants.
Calgary B2B Tasting
The city of Calgary witnessed a unique opportunity for trade professionals on April 3rd, as they explored the enchanting world of Ribera del Duero wines for the first time. In collaboration with the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers - Alberta Chapter, Ribera del Duero organized a comprehensive tasting event. Over 20 different wines were presented, allowing attendees to delve into the unique characteristics that define Ribera del Duero wines. The event, hosted at the historic Ranchmen's Club, provided a sophisticated backdrop that complemented the quality of the showcased wines.
Partner of the Best Sommelier of Canada Competition
Ribera del Duero took a significant role in the renowned Best Sommelier of Canada Competition, held in Nova Scotia from November 13th to 15th, 2023. Simultaneously, SOMM U (University) hosted various masterclasses and tastings, including a Ribera del Duero masterclass hosted by Adrian Caravallo. The masterclass was broadcasted throughout the country, providing education to more than 150 sommeliers. At the end of the event, it was Joris Gutierrez Garcia, beloved Ribera del Duero trainer during our SAQ and LCBO Training Tours, that was crowned Best Sommelier of Canada 2023. Congratulations Joris!
Host of ACSP-Québec’s Christmas Dinners
As part of its ongoing engagement, Ribera del Duero played a pivotal role in the ACSP-Québec's Christmas Dinners. These annual gatherings, held in both Quebec City and Montreal, featured Ribera del Duero as the presenting sponsor. The Quebec City event, hosted at Blanche Salle d'événements on December 4th, was presided over by Carl Villeneuve-Lepage, the Best Sommelier of Canada 2017. The Greater Montreal dinner on December 5th, held at restaurant Les Oiseaux, featured Guillaume Plante, the 2nd Best Sommelier of Quebec 2023, providing insightful commentary on meticulously curated food and wine pairings.
In summary, Ribera del Duero's extensive activities in Canada throughout 2023, including training sessions, ambassador appointment, tasting events, sponsorships, and collaborations, underscore its commitment to promoting awareness and appreciation for the region's exceptional wines within the Canadian market.
Happy New Year!
