The 2012 Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival took place February 27 to March 4 and presented its regional theme of Chile and a global focus on Cabernet grapes. I attended some of the different events during the festival starting off with the official media launch at Joey Bentall One Wine Room where Executive Director Harry Hertscheg was on hand to kick-start this 34th annual festival.

Bacchanalia Gala reception

I attended the Bacchanalia Gala reception on February 28th and sipped and mingled amongst wine connoisseurs during the reception over J Vineyards J Brut Russian River Rose NV at The Fairmont Hotel Vancouver.

Trade Days Lunch

Ocean Wise Ceviche Trio

On March 1st, I attended the annual Trade Days Lunch held at the Vancouver Convention Centre, I was seated with Sake makers from Vancouver as well as a winemaker from Argentina. Executive Chef Blair Rasmussen of the Vancouver Convention Centre prepared a Chilean inspired meal for all to enjoy.

9th annual Awards Lunch

9th annual Awards Lunch

The next day on March 2nd, I attended the 9th annual Awards Lunch featuring the wines of Chile. The menu was developed by . Executive Chef Blair Rasmussen and his time along with Chef Pilar Rodriguez (Wines of Chile).

I then took in some time tasting and learning about the different wines in the International Tasting Room of the Trade Tasting.

Chef Pilar Rodriguez (Wines of Chile).

Rack of Lamb

Empanadas

Desserts

On March 3rd, I attended a very unique event to this years festival, Celebrate Chile that featured Chilean cuisine made by Chef Pilar Rodriguez (Wines of Chile) and her team.

Cinq-à-Sept Mingler

Cinq-à-Sept Mingler bites from Clare`s Catering

Cinq-à-Sept Mingler

My last event that I attended during the festival was also on March 3rd at the Vancouver Art Gallery in their roof top space. The Cinq-à-Sept Mingler was represented by the French wines contingent of the Festival.

As usual I enjoyed the many different food and wine events during this years festival. Next years festival will be held February 25th to March 3rd with the Theme Region of California, and the Global Focus on Chardonnay.