
Alex Catto and Aimbree Bystrom [Source: SMC communications]
As Chambar embarks on an exciting new chapter following its 20th anniversary, the acclaimed Vancouver restaurant celebrated with a remarkable evening of wine and culinary excellence. On March 12, Chambar hosted a Winemaker’s Dinner featuring Clos du Soleil, one of the top wineries in British Columbia. The event not only highlighted the winery’s exceptional portfolio but also showcased the vision and expertise of Chambar’s new Co-Wine Directors, Alex Catto and Aimbree Bystrom.
This special evening signaled an evolution in Chambar’s approach to wine, blending its long-standing commitment to quality with a fresh, dynamic perspective.
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Taking a closer look at Bourgogne wines.
On March 3rd, an exclusive tasting at the Vancouver Club provided a rare opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Bourgogne, a region steeped in tradition yet constantly evolving.
Hosted by the Bourgogne Wine Board, “Bourgogne Wines – Take a Closer Look” invited wine lovers and industry professionals to step beyond the celebrated Grand Crus and dive into the lesser-known village appellations that form the backbone of this historic wine region.
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Chef Tonny and Allison.
Puerto Vallarta is a destination known for its stunning coastline, vibrant culture, and rich culinary scene. But among the countless dining experiences available, there is one that stands out as truly exceptional—an intimate, immersive, and passionately crafted meal by Chef Tonny J. Camarena, affectionately known as Chef Tonny. After experiencing his culinary artistry multiple times, it remains as fresh, exciting, and impressive as the first.
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Finding the balance…
As Canadian wine lovers, we take great pride in supporting our homegrown industry. From the Okanagan Valley to Prince Edward County, our vintners continue to craft world-class wines, and there’s a deep sense of national pride in choosing a bottle from a local winery.
But wine appreciation doesn’t end at the border. Many of us have also built deep connections with U.S. winemakers, particularly in regions like California, Washington, and Oregon, where we regularly visit, taste, and invest in their wines. With Canada being one of the largest export markets for American wine, the recent threats of increased tariffs on Canadian goods by the U.S. government feel like an alarming disruption that will reverberate on both sides of the border.
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Stunning views no matter the angle.
Perched atop a picturesque hill in the heart of Napa Valley’s Carneros AVA, Artesa Winery offers far more than a wine tasting experience—it’s a destination where art and winemaking converge in stunning harmony. Steeped in tradition yet guided by modern innovation, Artesa seamlessly blends its Catalan heritage with the vibrant spirit of California’s wine country, captivating visitors with feast for the senses before they even lift a glass.
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Spectacular views on the way to ‘paradise’ (the lighthouse).
Buenos Aires is a city of grand architecture, but few buildings tell a story as intricate as Palacio Barolo.
Rising 100 meters above Avenida de Mayo, this early 20th-century masterpiece is more than just an office building—it’s a love letter to literature, an architectural marvel, and, for those in the know, one of the most spectacular places to take in the city skyline with a glass of wine in hand.
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The coolest of the Napa Valley AVAs.
The Carneros American Viticultural Area (AVA) holds a unique place in California’s winemaking landscape. Straddling both Napa and Sonoma counties, Carneros is distinguished by its cooler climate, which is heavily influenced by its proximity to the San Pablo Bay. This climate makes it ideal for growing cool-climate grape varieties such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and the AVA has earned a global reputation for producing excellent sparkling wines as well.
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Chateau St. Jean’s story began in 1973, when its three founders set out to create a winery that would capture the unique qualities of Sonoma’s vineyards.

The estate vineyard in Kenwood.
The name, inspired by Jean Sheffield, reflects her role as the heart of their circle—wife, sister, and sister-in-law to the three founders—and the only person who could keep them united with her “saintly” patience. Over the years, Chateau St. Jean has remained rooted in the spirit of community, warmth, and hospitality. Here, wine is more than a product; it’s a celebration of the good things in life, a testament to Sonoma’s character, and an invitation to gather and enjoy.
With the recent announcement of a new winemaker, this iconic winery is set to embark on a dynamic new era, building on its tradition of producing wines that capture the true spirit of Sonoma’s varied terroir.
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