Event:Crush Online Auction
Organizer:The Belfry Theatre
Location:Online
Start:Monday Nov 30, 2020
12:00 PM PST
End:Sunday Dec 6, 2020
8:00 PM PST
Cost:Free!
Contact:Kate Barry
(250) 385-6835

Welcome to Crush 2020, the Belfry Theatre's fine wine online auction. While we are disappointed we couldn't welcome you back in person, we set about collecting a wide variety of wine and spirits to appeal to buyers in all price brackets. Registration will be open on Monday November 23 and bidding will begin at noon on Monday November 30.

Cash AppealOur Goal
Make a Gift to the Belfry!
For more than 40 years the Belfry Theatre has showcased new plays, Canadian classics, and the best contemporary work from around the world, in a 19th century heritage building that has transformed over the years into one of Canada’s most beautiful and intimate cultural spaces.

Tickets sales pay for less than half of our operating expenses. We rely on government and corporations to help us continue, but without the generosity of hundreds of individual donors, our beautiful building and the quality work we produce would not be possible.

This year, more than ever, we are looking to our friends and donors to help us. Your gift will enable us to continue making online theatre content during this fallow period—and to come back strong in the Spring!

Tax receipts are issued for cash donations of $10 or more. All donors who contribute $25 or more are considered members of the Belfry Theatre Society and are eligible to vote at the Belfry Theatre’s Annual General Meeting.

Our Goal: $2,000

$2,000
$1,074
Jump To
BC Wine
Curated Wine
Dining
Experiences
Gifts
Spirits
Auction Items Value High Bid
Curated Wine
Tignanello, 2015 & 2016 (Italy)
Now here’s a dynamic duo! The very first of Italy’s “Super Tuscans,” Tignanello was created in 1971 by the fabled Antinori family, one of Tuscany’s most historic winemaking dynasties. After defying the viticulture rules of Chianti and using the “foreign” varietals Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, Tignanello was demoted to mere table wine status – then handily proved its worth by winning major international awards. But despite its legendary reputation, this iconic wine is under-priced compared to many other ultra-premium brands such as Sassicaia, and is well worth pursuing. The 2015 vintage received universally high ratings and comments verging on rapturous. James Suckling praised its “incredible depth” then said it was “like looking over the edge of a skyscraper.” Wine Spectator wrote: “Dense and intensely flavoured, with violet, black currant, graphite, wild herb and spice aromas and flavours, this is concentrated and solidly built, yet also harmonious, vibrant and pure.” Added Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: “This vintage is immediately accessible, generous and opulent.” The 2016 vintage was even better received, with ratings from 96-99. Wine Spectator was seemingly in love: “A big, lush style, this red delivers pure aromas and flavours of black currant, cherry, violet, flint, tobacco and baking spices . . . lovely sweet, ripe finish.” And the Wine Advocate called it “a stunning beauty” before adding that it was “at the top of the list of some of the best Tignanello ever made.” Wow!
https://vimeo.com/484615867/8ae88ac716

Valued at $310 Current bid: $400

Donated By Anonymous

$310 $400
Château Meyney (four bottles), 1990 (France)
One of the classic “cru bourgeois” estates from the St. Estephe region of Bordeaux, Château Meyney dates back to about 1660 when monks planted the first vines. Meyney’s “modern” era began a century ago, and the estate is held in high regard by wine guru Hugh Johnson (who was certainly impressed with the 1990 vintage). One of the writers at Vivino had this to say: “Mmmmm. Saturating, complex palate that takes you for a deep ride. Mature plum/rhubarb fruit. Excellent acidity. Long finish of mint leaf and smoke . . . beautifully representative.” Robert Parker called this “a fine effort from a perennial overachiever” and particularly liked its “fine nose of black fruits, herbs, and oak, ripe, generous, tannin-dominated flavours, [and] good concentration.” Wine Spectator gave it 89 points and had this to say: “A bit rustic, but impressive. Dark garnet colour. Lots of currant, prune and cherry on the nose. Full-bodied, with tobacco, cherry and tar character and big velvety tannins.” Recent tastings by the scribes at CellarTracker resulted in ratings of 91 and 93 and this praise: “Still in perfect condition, with sweet, juicy fruit . . . and very nice tertiary notes.” And also: “This remains an extraordinary cru bourgeois! Perfectly mature with totally integrated tannins.”

Valued at $330 Current bid: $400

Donated By Anonymous

$330 $400
Caymus Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, 2013
Founded nearly a half-century ago, Caymus Vineyards is bedrock Napa royalty. They produce two Cabernet Sauvignons, and this auction features their iconic Special Selection bottling, which is known for its luxuriant complexity, supple density, and rich and opulent texture. Very much the flagship product of Caymus, it is the only wine to twice be named Wine Spectator’s Wine of the Year. The 2013 vintage was certainly popular with the critics. As James Suckling noted: “The full-throttle character is here as expected with lots of ripe fruit and toasted oak.” Wilfred Wong of Wine.com characterized it as “ultra-rich and satisfying” before complimenting it for being “layered and saturated . . . the finish smooth and lasting.” Vivino was another big fan: “Dark dense red with black fruit and currant aromas adding a gentle touch of spice. On the palate, layered flavours of plum, blackberry and sweet raspberry together with cacao, sugar cane and supple leather.” And Wine Spectator bestowed 95 points and these flattering words: “Zeroes in on a rich, hedonistic core of wild berry, blackberry, plum and currant, with a graceful, elegant mouthfeel and supple, caressing tannins leading to a long, powerful and refined aftertaste that keeps reverberating.”

Valued at $232 Current bid: $300

Donated By Anonymous

$232 $300
A Grand Tour of Europe [3 x 1.5 L]
Three magnums from three of Europe’s greatest wine countries . . . let’s start the tour in France! It’s always fun to begin with champagne, and here’s a posh pour indeed: 1.5 L of H. Billiot Fils, a non-vintage blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Anthony Gismondi was impressed: “This creamy, ample wine opens with apricot biscuit, dough and toasted cereals, with red fruits . . . a generous wine best enjoyed with sizable scallops.” And now were off to northwestern Spain, where the Rias Baixas wine region produces some of that country’s finest whites. The Terras Gauda O Rosal 2017, 70% Albarino, offers great aromatics and complexity as well as a long finish. Vivino certainly saluted: “The palate is a lovely balance of fruit, acidity, mineral and sweetness.” And we finish in southern Italy’s Puglia region with the 2009 vintage of the Il Falcone Reserva, a yummy blend of Nero di Troia and Montepulciano. Natalie MacLean rated this robust beauty at 91 points, writing: “Savoury, smoky and brooding with fleshy black fruit aromas and flavours. Ultra-delicious and smooth in texture.” The Falcone would be fantastic with lamb. And these three wines represent a safe – and delightful – way to experience Europe during COVID.

Valued at $320 Current bid: $320

Donated By Vessel Liquor

$320 $320
One Faith Grand Vin & Certitude (B.C.) [750ml & 3-litre]
Still flying a bit below the radar, One Faith is a laser-focused and vaultingly ambitious winery located in Oliver’s Black Sage Bench. The winery was started by Hong Kong émigré Bill Lui a decade ago, with hopes of creating the Okanagan equivalent of a “first growth” to rival the great wines of Bordeaux. This auction lot includes a bottle of their Grand Vin (B.C.’s most expensive wine) and a 3-litre bottle of Certitude, the winery’s “second wine.” The early vintages – including these from 2013 – were overseen by revered Napa winery consultant Anne Vawter, who favoured a bold, full-flavoured and elegant style. There were only 250 cases made of the Grand Vin, a classic Bordeaux blend that was aged in brand new French oak for three years. Celebrated wine writer John Schreiner gave it 95 points, with these notes: “Aromas of black cherry and vanilla bound from the glass as a prelude to the medley of sweet fruit on the palate: flavours of blueberry, black cherry and black currant. The long ripe tannins polish the wine’s long, elegant finish.” Added Vivino: “The colour is a beautiful ruby, dark. Cassis drives the nose along with other ripe red fruit. Complex flavours of ripe plum, clove and coffee make up the palate.” Certitude, also a Bordeaux blend, similarly received lots of praise, especially from CellarTracker: “Clean nose of black fruit, vanilla and floral. Blackberry, violet, dark chocolate on palate. Great wine. Very big but lots going on.” These are rare and special wines . . . so get out your wallet!

Valued at $365 Current bid: $400

Donated By

Scott Cumming
One Faith Vineyards

$365 $400
Château de Beaucastel, 2015-2017 (France)
Châteauneuf du Pape is one of France’s most richly flavoured wines, and a particularly celebrated producer is Château de Beaucastel. This vertical trio has much to offer Beaucastel’s ardent fans. The 2015 vintage sure impressed the critics, with almost everyone posting 95- to 97-point ratings. James Suckling said it was an “impressive, powerful wine.” Wine Spectator proclaimed it “a stunner from the get-go,” Jeb Dunnuck called it “A beauty that offers more depth and richness than just about every other wine in the vintage.” Now let’s jump to 2016, when Beaucastel really outdid itself. James Suckling went 99 points, and gushed: “This is a stunning Beaucastel. A classic! This has impeccable balance, super-silky tannins and an extraordinarily long finish.” Not to be out-blurbed, Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate raved: “It’s full-bodied, creamy, lush and rich.” And moving onwards to the 2017 vintage, Jeb Dunnuck, Decanter and Wine Spectator all gave it 95 points. Comments included: “Another sunny, beautifully Provençal effort that has a huge nose of garrigue, leather, truffle and peppery spice.” “Another terrific vintage.” “A seriously structured Beaucastel for the long term.” For Beaucastel lovers, this is indubitably a must-have trio!

Valued at $340 Current bid: $650

$340 $650
Il Bruciato, 2017 (Italy) [750ml & 1.5 L]
Sited a bit southwest of Florence, the Guado al Tasso Estate is one of the holdings of Antinori, one of the first families of Italian winemaking. It is famous for the Il Bruciato blended red, predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, which is much prized for its intense ruby colour and excellent concentration. The auction lot is from the 2017 vintage and consists of an appealing duo: a 750ml bottle and a magnum. James Suckling gave the 2017 a rating of 93 points and had this to say: “There’s a very fresh array here of thyme, newly picked blackcurrants, iodine, crushed stones and sea salt. The exuberant fruit is matched nicely to fine and elegant tannins.” Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate praised its “soft and velvety texture” before describing the “noticeable ripeness with black cherry, prune and raisin.” Natalie MacLean rated it a 91, saying “Fresh blackberry, black currant, dried wild herbs finishing flinty and briny on the palate.” And Vivino was also a fan, describing it as “well-balanced . . . bold and structured . . . elegant, layered and concentrated.” There is a bit of cellaring potential here, but it will be drinking well by 2021. Try it with beef, lamb, or veal.

Valued at $130 Current bid: $180

Donated By

Scott Cumming
Anonymous

$130 $180
Osoyoos Larose Grand Vin, 2002-2007 (BC)
The “Grand Vin” of Osoyoos Larose is grand indeed, representing the combination of Bordeaux winemaking finesse with gorgeous Okanagan fruit (this six-bottle vertical array covers the early period when Bordeaux-trained winemaker Pascal Madevon was in charge of the winery). Osoyoos Larose is one of the Okanagan’s flagship wineries, and their eminently collectable Grand Vin is cherished for its richness and complexity. This auction lot features a vertical array from 2002 to 2007, and these well-aged beauties all reveal the master’s touch. This is a true Bordeaux blend, containing mostly Merlot alongside Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. Tim Appelt of WineDiscovery was lucky enough to attend a vertical tasting spanning nearly a decade of Madevon-vinted wines and here are a few representative comments: “The nose is rich, intense and fruit-forward [suggestive of] black currants, cherries, blackberries, plums, along with violets and baking spice. Mouth-filling fruit, chocolate and coffee bean flavours.” And of the 2005, one of Appelt’s top picks, he added: “There is real elegance here, a wine that will interest those who aren’t looking for raw power.” Although drinking beautifully now, these wines will cellar for a few more years . . . if you can wait that long!
https://vimeo.com/belfrytheatre/review/484629275/9d16c9a182

Valued at $365 Current bid: $500

Donated By Ernest Sargent

$365 $500
Tour de France "six pack"
This year’s “party pack” of French wines is a particularly notable sextet. The fun starts with the 2015 Tissot-Maire Crémant du Jura Millésimé, a charming sparkler exactingly made in the traditional method. Also interesting is the 2014 Jérôme Quiot Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc Les Combes d’Arnevel, which received 91 points from CellarTracker. We smoothly transition to red wine with the 2009 Jean Foillard Morgon “Côté du Py” Cru Beaujolais, a superb example of what you can do with the Gamay grape. Now here’s a beauty! The 2005 Domaine Barroche “Pure” Châteauneuf du Pape received 100 points and astonishing praise from Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: “This flamboyant, voluptuous and sexy beauty . . . has awesome purity and a blockbuster finish.” And we have two from Bordeaux, starting with the 2004 Château Pontet-Canet. This intense and powerful wine was praised by Wine Spectator for its “beautiful aromas of crushed berries and currants.” Jeb Dunnuck called it “Very classic . . . with textbook notes of blackcurrants, cedar wood, and dried tobacco.” Another impressive Bordeaux, the 2016 Domaine de Chevalier, won the admiration of James Suckling for its “very sleek and powerful array of ripe dark fruit.” This last one needs to cellar. As for the rest: Party on!

Valued at $730 Current bid: $725

Donated By Ernest Sargent

$730 $725
Moccagatta Barbaresco Cole, 1998 (Italy)
Barbaresco is made from the Nebbiolo grape and rivals Barolo as one of the great ambassadors of the Piedmont region in northwestern Italy. As such, it’s easy to be intrigued by the Moccagatta Barbaresco Cole, one of the notable expressions of this powerful wine style. We’re time traveling back to 1998 for this beauty, which earned 94 points from Wine Spectator. The comments were equally praiseful: “Very spicy aromas, with dried berries and plum that turn almost pruney. Full-bodied and very, very ripe, with lots of fruit and a mushroom and tar aftertaste. Juicy wine. Almost Port-like.” At 93 points, Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar was similarly delighted: “Deep red. Pungent, vibrant nose dominated by currant and cola syrup. Dense, impressively concentrated and rather powerful. A superb example of the ’98 vintage at its best. Finished impressively long. This wine should gain in complexity over the next decade.” Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate also joined in the chorus of praise: “Concentrated and complex. A dense dark garnet colour is followed by high-toned, fragrant aromas of menthol, leather, spice box, cherries and wood. Deep, rich, and medium to full-bodied, with moderate tannin in the long finish.”

Valued at $120 Current bid: $130

Donated By Mike & Shellie Gudgeon, Il Terrazzo

$120 $130
Five Chardonnays by CheckMate Artisanal Winery, 2015 (B.C.)
CheckMate Artisanal Winery is the remarkable brainchild of proprietor Anthony von Mandl, patriarch of one of the Okanagan’s pioneering winery families. Focused on producing ultra-premium wines that range from $85 to $125 per bottle, this Oliver-based winery is particularly notable for its elegant, Burgundian-style Chardonnays, of which it produces seven different bottlings. This auction lot features five from the 2015 vintage in a lovely presentation box. In keeping with the name CheckMate, all the wines are chess references: Capture, Queen’s Taken, Queen’s Advantage, Knight’s Challenge, and Attack. We were able to get tasting notes on two of these exceptional wines, courtesy of sommelier Matt Steeves. Of Capture, which earned 94 points, he wrote: “ . . . chilled pineapple mousse with whipped cream, stone fruit, baked almond croissants, baking spices, and fresh vanilla bean. The palate highlights the creamy texture, with fleshy stone fruit, spice, and mouthwatering minerality on the long finish.” Matt gave 96 points to Attack, with praise to match: “A textbook example of textured, mineral-focused Chardonnay with an abundance of orchard fruit and spice, all presented in an elegant style with exquisite balance.” Adds B.C. wine guru John Schreiner: “These are world-class wines that deliver what consumers should expect from wines in that price range.”

Valued at $500 Current bid: $450

Donated By Turnham Woodland Barristers & Solicitors

$500 $450
A Tasty Napa Trio
Every cellar needs some lush California reds in the racks, and here are three from Napa Valley that fill the bill nicely. Founded in 1972, Caymus Vineyards is a Cabernet Sauvignon specialist whose wines are celebrated for their rich, ripe fruit, velvety tannins, and depth of flavour. The 2016 vintage has certainly impressed the critics, with the International Wine Review bestowing 94 points while praising it for its “wonderful opulent mouthfeel combined with flavours of crème de cassis, mocha, tar, graphite and blackberry jam.” And Wine Spectator loved the “waves of plum and boysenberry compote flavours gliding through, liberally laced with sweet singed vanilla bean and warm anise notes.” The second bottle, The Prisoner, is a celebrated red blend that vividly combines Zinfandel with Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, and Syrah. Wilfred Wong of Wine.com rated the 2016 as a 91, stating that it was “perfect for New World wine lovers.” And one of the scribes from CellarTracker agreed, adding that he appreciated the “interesting and unusual mix of grapes and . . . lots of rich, dark cherry fruit on the palate. A very Californian crowd pleaser.” The 2013 Duckhorn Valley Cabernet Sauvignon delighted Wine & Spirits, which rated it a 95 and loved it for being “vibrant and mouthwatering.” Wilfred Wong calls this one of his go-to wines, adding that it was “so rich, yet elegant and long-lasting on the palate.”

Valued at $260 Current bid: $400

Donated By

David & Caroline Barry
Whitney Laughlin

$260 $400
1 Bottle of Ariel 2000 Vintage Cipes
You can never go wrong hoisting a glass of premium B.C. bubbly from Summerhill Vineyard – especially if it’s their Cipes Ariel 2000, which has been aging in bottle “on the lees” for over 17 years before being disgorged in small batches beginning just over a year ago. Made from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier, in a strictly traditional manner, this is vintage sparkling wine that offers a bounty of complexity, creaminess, and mouthfeel. Not surprisingly it won a Gold Medal at the 2020 Lieutenant Governor’s awards. Decanter Magazine consultant editor Stephen Spurrier (of Judgement of Paris fame) rated this at 95 points and called it “really, really good wine.” MyWinePal was similarly impressed, as you can tell from their tasting notes: “The wine is dry with medium-plus body and acidity. Big depth feel in your mouth. Round and thick. Toasty, pears, apples and roasted apple flavours along with a touch of minerality and some butterscotch on the finish . . . This is a big sparkling wine with lots of depth of fruit flavours.” And the Canadian wine scribes from WineAlign bestowed 93 points, calling this vintage Cipes “A fully mature, pale gold sparkler.” In a word, Cheers!

Valued at $100 Current bid: $105

Donated By Summerhill Pyramid Winery

$100 $105
A Garzón Trio from Uruguay
Recently hailed by Wine Enthusiast as “new world winery of the year,” Uruguay’s Bodega Garzón produces rich, impressive wines. Their flagship wine, Balasto, is a suavely spicy blend of Tannat, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Marselan. James Suckling gave it 94 points, while Decanter praised its “very refined style with bounteous hints of herbs and tobacco . . . and long, salty finish.” One of the scribes at CellarTracker called this his favourite new discovery of the year and gave it 96 points (“Wonderful, almost rolling tannin structure, impeccable fruit, slight salt on the flourish. Delicious.”) The second bottle is 100% Marselan, a cross between Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache that originated in France’s Languedoc region. Anthony Gismondi was clearly impressed with this 2015 reserva, commenting thus: “Rustically framed, but elegantly presented, this is an ideal wine to serve up with fire-grilled beef.” Vivino also liked it: “Bursting with blackberry, oak, chocolate and cherry, perfect with game dishes.” And completing the trio is the 2018 Cabernet Franc/Tannat blend, which impressed two writers at WineAlign, both of whom gave it 89 points and these comments: “Fleshy and concentrated with tannins that are ripe enough for immediate consumption” and “slightly reserved but complex and very well balanced.”

Valued at $170 Current bid: $300

Donated By

Walt & Karen Madro
Cook St Liquor

$170 $300
Burrowing Owl Syrah, 2017 (B.C.) [3-litre + 750ml]
One of the Okanagan’s most celebrated wineries, Burrowing Owl has always been known for its big, bold, fruit-driven reds and their Syrah is no exception. Canadian wine maven Natalie MacLean bestowed a rating of 92 on the 2017 vintage and had this to say: “Burrowing Owl’s Syrah is rich, smooth and intense with dark cherry, blueberry, cake spice and smoky vanilla flavours on the palate. Beautifully balanced with structured tannins.” The scribes at Vivino were similarly impressed, calling this vintage “absolutely exceptional . . . a completely wonderful Syrah.” Described as “meaty” by several critics, this wine has also been widely hailed as a crowd-pleaser for its silky smoothness, full-bodied texture, and luxuriantly long finish. Although you could drink this tomorrow, it would be an age-worthy addition to any cellar and would be a joy to uncork five years from now. This auction lot consists of a 3-litre double magnum plus an additional 750ml bottle (so you can “test drive” the Syrah before committing to the big bottle). Decidedly food friendly, it will pair beautifully with everything from braised lamb shanks to peppercorn-crusted ahi tuna just off the grill. Talk about a dinner party to remember!

Valued at $410 Current bid: $500

Donated By

Burrowing Owl Vineyards
Cook St Liquor

$410 $500
Force Majeure “Parvata,” 2016 (Washington State)
Although most people think predominantly of California when it comes to West Coast wines, there have long been some fantastic reds coming out of Washington State. A case in point hails from the Walla Walla Valley, where the ultra-premium Force Majeure winery specializes in estate-grown single-vineyard Bordeaux- and Rhone-inspired wines. What’s at auction is their 2016 Parvata, a blend of 69% Mourvèdre, 21% Syrah, and 10% Grenache. Jeb Dunnuck handed out a rating of 96, then raved: “Deep ruby-coloured, with a beautiful bouquet of black raspberries, white pepper, spiced meats, and graphite, this hits the palate with full-bodied richness, ripe tannins and beautiful length.” Wine Spectator went 94 points (“With a brooding yet polished demeanor, this red builds richness as it goes, offering blackberry, cured meat, loamy mineral and pepper flavours.”) Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate had kind words indeed: “Medium to full-bodied, the palate is fresh and pure, with a mineral dustiness . . . the wine is focused and displays a delightful expression on the thoughtful, lingering finish.” Added a very pleased James Suckling: “The tannins are polished and the spicy, supple fruit cascades through the finish.” There were only 325 cases made, so this bottle is a bit of a catch.

Valued at $120 Current bid: $170

Donated By Anonymous

$120 $170
Spirits
Dallas Dhu
Derived from the Gaelic words “black water valley”, Dallas Dhu is yet another distillery that closed due to the “whisky loch” where far too much product was produced and drove profits into the ground. The last bourbon cask was filled in March 1983. The stocks of this great whisky are becoming even more rare as the distillery is now a whisky museum. You can expect notes of fruit – maybe pineapple or kiwi, floral potpourri on the nose. The taste will have some spice along with brittle toffee notes and will finish clean and dry. This 1978 bottling is a keeper and considered an old-school whisky.

Valued at $650 Current bid: $700

Donated By Peter & Helen Malcolm

$650 $700
Teaninich
Teaninich (Ten in nick) is a Highland distillery. This bottling is very rare and sought after by collectors. Founded in 1817, it fell victim to the economic collapse in the U.K. in the early 1980s and closed down in 1983. It has since re-opened and the owners, Diageo, are planning a major expansion. This great whisky is from its earlier days and is reminiscent of their malt-forward flavour profile – almost leathery with hints of smoke interplaying. With an ABV of nearly 65 %/vol. tempering the whisky with room temperature water will provide another series of delights with some stone fruit entering the fray.

Valued at $900 Current bid: $900

Donated By Peter & Helen Malcolm

$900 $900
Comte de Lauvia Armagnac: 1934 (France)
Six years ago Crush debuted a vintage Armagnac from one of the great houses of France – and here’s yet another chance to acquire this otherwise unobtainable rarity. Armagnac hails from the region of the same name in Gascony in southwest France; it’s a single-distilled spirit that often spends greater time in oak barrels than its more famous cousin, Cognac. As a result, Armagnac can often have greater finesse and roundness than its more famous rival. Comte de Lauvia produces some of the world’s greatest Armagnacs, and has won innumerable awards at international tasting competitions. Their 1934 bottling is an extremely rare and valuable single-barrel vintage. Comte de Lauvia distills its brandy at a uniquely low strength to preserve more of its rustic character, resulting in a spirit of exceptional smoothness with intense flavours of prune, fig, wood, and forest fruits. To the eye this Armagnac has a deep coffee colour. The pleasing nose offers cloves and maple sugar, with hints of vanilla. On the palate, it is joyous; with an amazing rancio character, overlaid with honey, walnut, prune and coffee. This Armagnac is an unforgettable experience and has been called “Christmas in a bottle.”

Valued at $1,320 Current bid: $1,200

Donated By Paddy Stewart

$1,320 $1,200
Ampersand Gin
Ampersand Gin bridges the gap between London Dry & New Western - at once a classic, yet with a twist. The bouquet is floral, bursting with citrus & juniper. The mid-palate offers spice from cardamom and the finish gives way to earthier botanicals like angelica & orris root. These botanicals shine against a background with body, sweetness, and a creamy mouth feel from our wheat spirit.

Valued at $40 Current bid: $90

Donated By Ampersand Distilling Co

$40 $90
Sheringham Gin Package
One bottle of Sheringham Distillery's Seaside Gin - citrus, floral and notes of the sea make this gin as refreshing as a seaside stroll. Made from BC white wheat, BC malted barley, natural botanicals and sustainable hand-harvested local winged kelp. Also included are a hat, unisex t-shirt and two stainless steel mugs

Valued at $103 Current bid: $135

Donated By Sheringham Distillery

$103 $135
BC Wine
Hester Creek Trio (B.C.) [1.5 L, and 2 750ml]
Established over 50 years ago, Hester Creek is one of the true pioneers of the Okanagan’s Golden Mile Bench. Their most notable bottling is their Bordeaux blend, auspiciously named The Judge. (B.C. wine maven John Schreiner, a long-time fan, included it in his recent book Icon, designed to highlight B.C.’s most cellar-worthy wines.) The 2015 vintage did very well with the critics, and we’re delighted to be auctioning a magnum bottle. Natalie MacLean rated it a 95, calling it a blockbuster, then added: “This is stunning Bordeaux elegance, BC power. Pair it with a rare steak or lamb.” Anthony Gismondi gave it 91 points, and praised it thus: “The wine is fully ripe and the texture long, soft and persistent.” Also included in this auction is the 2019 Trebbiano, which got a 91 rating from one of Natalie MacLean’s writers (“dry and delicate on the palate with flavours of honeyed-pear, fresh apricot, grapefruit, lavender, subtle fine herbs, finishing long and zesty”). And the trio concludes with the 2016 Block 2 Merlot, which WineAlign’s Sharon McLean awarded 90 points and this praise: “Rich and round with the classic soft, velvet texture of Merlot . . . baked plums, black fruit, dark chocolate and herbs on the palate.”

Valued at $150 Current bid: $200

Donated By Hester Creek Winery

$150 $200
Coolshanagh
Coolshanagh – a meeting place of family and friends.

Coolshanagh Vineyard possesses a select 10-acre site on the rustic north end of the idyllic Naramata Bench. With consultation from the leading soil expert in the world, Coolshanagh has been planted exclusively to carefully-chosen Dijon clones of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, grafted to their ideal rootstocks. Quantities of their handmade wine will be scarce. Always.

By strictly limiting the quantity of Coolshanagh that they produce, their attention will remain focused on releasing only the best of all possible flavours, balance, and quality the vineyard can offer. There will only be one Coolshanagh. And in this lot you can get two: a bottle of 2017 Pinot Noir and a 2016 Chardonnay.

Valued at $70 Current bid: $85

Donated By Anonymous

$70 $85
Lake Breeze Package
3 Bottles of Lake Breeze Wine

Valued at $125 Current bid: $130

Donated By Lake Breeze Vineyards

$125 $130
Don't Lose The Plot!
Plot Wines 2018 Chardonnay & 2018 Neighbour (Merlot, Cab Franc, Malbec. Cab Sauv & Tempranillo)

Valued at $70 Current bid: $80

Donated By Plot Wines

$70 $80
Lunessence Winery & Vineyard
2018 Roussanne, 2019 Chardonnay, & 2019 Pinot Noir

Valued at $85 Current bid: $120

Donated By Lunessence Winery & Vineyard

$85 $120
Rigour & Whimsy
1 bottle of Rigour & Whimsy Roussanne/Marsanne

Valued at $40 Current bid: $35

Donated By Rigour & Whimsy

$40 $35
Unsworth Party Pack
12 Bottles of Unsworth Wine

3 x Unsworth Cuvee de L’lie
3 x Unsworth Saison Vineyard Pinot Noir
3 x Unsworth 2016 Pinot Noir
3 x Unsworth Ovation

Valued at $400 Current bid: $400

Donated By Unsworth Vineyards

$400 $400
Okanagan Gift Basket
A collection of some of the Okanagan's finest. 2015 Sumac Ridge Stellar’s Brut, 2015 See ya Later Ranch Chardonnay, 2017 Black Sage Cabernet Sauvignon & 2016 Sunrock Red Meritage

Valued at $105 Current bid: $160

Donated By

Sumac Ridge
See Ya Later Ranch
Black Sage Vineyards
Sunrock Vineyards

$105 $160
O'Rourke's Peaks Cellars
Located in Lake Country, just 10 minutes north of Kelowna is O'Rourkes Peaks Cellars. Enjoy their 2017 Pinot Noir, 2018 Riesling and a 2018 Gruner Veltliner. 

Valued at $95 Current bid: $100

Donated By O'Rourke's Peaks Cellars

$95 $100
Grapes to Glass
Learn about all that goes into a perfect glass of wine with this tour and tasting at Blue Grouse Estate Winery.

Valued at $150 Current bid: $80

Donated By Blue Grouse Estate Winery

$150 $80
Magnum from Kettle Valley
A custom etched, hand painted 1.5L McGraw 2016 Merlot in a branded oak box

Valued at $225 Current bid: $225

Donated By Kettle Valley Winery

$225 $225
Dining
Fernwood Inn
Welcome to the Fernwood Inn, a community gathering place in the heart of one of Victoria’s oldest and most colorful neighborhoods. We are committed to providing locally sourced organic products, wild seafood, and the Island’s best micro brews. Come and experience our wonderfully unique environment where every element of our Inn’s cuisine is created ‘Inn’ house!

Valued at $80 Current bid: $80

Donated By Fernwood Inn

$80 $80
Mesa Familiar
Mesa Familiar is family owned and operated by Neil and Vanessa Davis, founded in January of 2017. Mesa Familiar translates to “family table” a name which they felt expresses their vision; A comfortable space where people of all walks of life can come together to enjoy a meal. A place for family, in a broader sense. But at the end of the day we have a great room filled with great people. We love to cook and eat and entertain. We are supported by a great staff that make it all happen every day.

Valued at $50 Current bid: $100

Donated By Mesa Familiar

$50 $100
The Whole Beast
$50 gift certificate to the Beast, The Whole Beast, and nothing but the Beast!

Valued at $50 Current bid: $70

Donated By The Whole Beast

$50 $70
Stage Wine Bar
Enjoy a $50 gift certificate and 4 complimentary glasses of bubbles

Valued at $70 Current bid: $100

Donated By Stage Wine Bar

$70 $100
Smuggler's Cove Gift Certificate
Cozy British Style tavern with a 2nd floor deck offering global comfort fare and many draft beers. Smugglers Cove Pub offers visitors a taste of the local life in Victoria. With many imported and local ales on tap this pub has a loyal local following where visitors can enjoy a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Valued at $100 Current bid: $130

Donated By Smugglers Cove Pub

$100 $130
Pizza!
$70 gift certificate to Fernwood Pizza Co

Valued at $70 Current bid: $75

Donated By Fernwood Pizza Co

$70 $75
Dine with the Devil
Here's a treat for you - a $100 gift certificate for you and a friend to join the Belfry Theatre's illustrious Chair Emeritus Paddy Stewart at his favourite lunch haunt. Bring your "A" game as Paddy will attempt to outwit, outlast and outplay everyone at the table. Social distancing guidelines will be in effect.

Priceless! Current bid: $100

Donated By Moxie's Grill & Bar

Priceless! $100
Lure Gift Certificate
$50 to Lure Restaurant at the Delta Ocean Pointe Resort

Valued at $50 Current bid: $75

Donated By Lure Restaurant at Delta Ocean Pointe Resort

$50 $75
Gifts
Phillips Package
Gift basket from Phillips including two branded glass, two t-shirts, posters, soda pop from Phillip's Sodaworks and a growler. Perfect for the craft beer lover in your life!

Valued at $75 Current bid: $85

Donated By Phillips Brewing & Malting Co

$75 $85
Studio 1313
A Haircut and hair products from Studio 1313 in the heart of Fernwood

Valued at $105 Current bid: $100

Donated By Studio 1313

$105 $100
Flower Power
Enjoy a $50 gift certificate from Petals Plus

Valued at $50 Current bid: $55

Donated By Petal Plus Floral Design

$50 $55
Vessel Swag Bag
$50 gift card
T-shirt and hat
Corkscrew
Bubble stopper
All in a branded Vessel Liquor Store reusable tote

Valued at $100 Current bid: $80

Donated By Vessel Liquor Store

$100 $80
Vessel Swag Bag
$50 gift card
T-shirt and hat
Corkscrew
Bubble stopper
All in a branded Vessel Liquor Store reusable tote

Valued at $100 Current bid: $70

Donated By Vessel Liquor Store

$100 $70
Vessel Swag Bag
$50 gift card
T-shirt and hat
Corkscrew
Bubble stopper
All in a branded Vessel Liquor Store reusable tote

Valued at $100 Current bid: $70

Donated By Vessel Liquor Store

$100 $70
Vessel Swag Bag
$50 gift card
T-shirt and hat
Corkscrew
Bubble stopper
All in a branded Vessel Liquor Store reusable tote

Valued at $100 Current bid: $70

Donated By Vessel Liquor Store

$100 $70
Experiences
Okanagan Crush Pad Virtual Wine Party
Don’t let physical distancing keep you and your wine-loving friends apart over the holidays. We will provide 4 sets of 3 wines (Haywire Pink bub, Narrative Riesling, Free Form Cabernet Franc) for you and three groups of friends to enjoy in the comfort of your home while one of our Winery Ambassadors joins your “party” over Zoom to discuss the wines and tell the story of Okanagan Crush Pad.

Notes: Free shipping to greater Victoria area. If virtual wine party participants are outside Victoria, we can arrange shipping for additional shipping fee.

Valued at $650 Current bid: $350

Donated By Okanagan Crush Pad Winery

$650 $350
Sea Cider Experience #1
Come out to Sea Cider Farm and taste all the peninsula has to offer. Enjoy 2 complimentary long flights and artisan meat and cheese platter at the Sea Cider tasting room and select 2 750ml sparkling cider bottles and 1 375 ml fortified cider to take home.

Valued at $115 Current bid: $100

Donated By Sea Cider

$115 $100
Sea Cider Experience #2
Come out to Sea Cider Farm and taste all the peninsula has to offer. Enjoy 2 complimentary long flights and artisan meat and cheese platter at the Sea Cider tasting room and select 2 750ml sparkling cider bottles and 1 375 ml fortified cider to take home.

Valued at $115 Current bid: $105

Donated By Sea Cider

$115 $105
Take Off With Helijet
The escape you are looking for is just a quick flight away. Enjoy the ease of Helijet's downtown-to-downtown service and take a little time for yourself plus a travel companion in Vancouver. This package includes return Helijet passes for two people Victoria-Vancouver (valid through to December 2021), one night for two at the Rosedale on Robson downtown, conveniently situated to the Helijet pad (expires December 31st 2021) and admission for two to any Arts Club Theatre performance in the 2020/21 Season at the Stanley Theatre (subject to availability).

Valued at $1,651 Current bid: $800

Donated By

Helijet
Arts Club Theatre
Rosedale On Robson

$1,651 $800
Art
Here are six passes to the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. The Gallery is a wonderful space to explore, interact and engage with the arts. Expires December 6 2021

Valued at $80 Current bid: $81

Donated By Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

$80 $81
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