When I received an invite from The Society that described an Urban Symphony with lotsa vino, I knew it was not to be missed. Society events are always a fashion show, and stylish guests stood tall in sky high heels and were neatly finished with shiny clutches, sock buns, red lips and dramatic scarves. I wasn’t surprised, but I was impressed – these women! Their clothes! The warehouse-like Airship 37 venue in the Distillery was quickly transformed into a glamourous space.

The People’s Wine is bringing its Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris to Ontario. Canada is the first country outside of New Zealand (where the vineyards lie) to receive this wine. And it was paired well withsweet sounds from the TSO string quartet. Classy stuff.

Our TSO host, Eric Nowlin, was a natural entertainer: real, honest, damn funny and under 40. The quartet started with Mozart: Divertimento No. 1. They encouraged us to experience this piece with the Pinot Gris–peppy, upbeat and perfectly balanced with spice. Next up was Tchaikovsky: String Quartet No. 1, second movement, Andante Cantabile. This of course was paired with the Pinot Noir – slow, moody, gorgeous and rich. I barely sipped wine during the pieces, because I was (surprisingly) stunned and consumed by the music. This was a pleasant surprise,  I’m not usually the “classical” type but this pairing was utterly romantic.

The wine goes for $16.95 at the LCBO. Great for a hostess gift at a dinner party or as a good ‘starting’ bottle for a night of mucho wine drinking.  My fave was the Pinot Gris.

~ Naomi Olsen