Category: event

Great time at the Capitol Centre in North Bay! I used to come here often as a young boy to see movies, and the occasional play, such as Spring Thaw with Dinah Christie in 1967. Nostalgic memories. I’m sitting here now, and notice familiar architectural and style hightlights in the well-maintened setting.

I’m here as a wine sponsor of the 17th annual Wine Gala. This concert by Colin James is the entertainment for the evening. I’ve been a fan of Colin’s since 1988 when his self-titled album came out, with such endearing hits as “Five Long Years” and “Voodoo Thing.” Tonight he’s here to perform a more laid-back show, kind of an unplugged. It’s an intimate way to experience his tremendous talent in both melody and lyrics. I love the way he mixes Delta-style accoustic blues and electric blues-rock-jazz. My kinda music! Thanks so much, Colin!

Now to the Wine Gala. Along with a very helpful volunteer, I pour four Viewpointe wines that I want to show off as great examples of Ontario winemaking excellence: Auxerrois, Cabernet Merlot, Ideal Pointe Barrel-Fermented Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc 2008 Burgundy label (reserve). The latter was the hit of the evening. They couldn’t get enough of it. About 400 people from North Bay and area came out in finery tonight; very well dressed, and a huge interest in fine wines. This is a happening cultural event, everyone feels great to be here, and I’m glad to be part of it.

Elsewhere at the Capitol Centre tonight, Lonnie Reed of Delaney Bay Cheese Market, is conducting a cheese tasting. I’m glad to provide a couple of bottles of Viewpointe Pinot Noir for her tasting. Lonnie tells me these two reserve wines, a 2007 and a 2010, go well with her chosen cheese to pair. She also paired a Henkel Trocken Sekt with one of her other cheese selections.

Colin James website
Capitol Centre
Delaney Bay Cheese Market
Viewpointe Estate Winery

From the Capitol Centre’s Press Release:

The 17th Annual Wine Gala with Colin James Duo Colin James will headline the Wine Gala on Saturday November 23, 2013. It will be a jam packed weekend with the Christmas Walk happening on the Friday and the Santa Claus Parade on the Sunday following the Gala.

To match the wonderful success of past years Wine Gala’s with Kim Mitchell and Rik Emmett, the Capitol Centre is continuing their template of blues rock concert/Wine Gala. Colin James will bring his acoustic duo show to the Wine Gala this year.

In a career spanning two decades, Colin (who was mentored by the legendary Stevie Ray Vaughan) has flourished into a multi-platinum artist many times over. His self-titled album debuted worldwide in 1989, garnering him two hit singles (“Voodoo Thing” and “Five Long Years”) as well as the first of many JUNO Awards. The emergence of The Little Big Band in the early 90s saw Colin’s career soar to new heights, and he remains one of the country’s most revered musicians.

The much anticipated Wine Gala will play host to your palate with wine, beer, spirits and food sampling galore. There will also be live music throughout the building in the RBC Galaxy Circle Lounge, Martini Lounge and Gallery. Many enticing silent auction items will be on display and a live auction will take place as well.

Get “Cheesecated” – Prep your palate before you hit the tasting tables

Who: Wine & Cheese Educator Lonnie Reed, owner of Delaney Bay Cheese Market.

What: Sample 10 interesting wines, 4 mouth-watering beers, assorted trendy ciders, 10 unique cheeses available only at Delaney Bay Cheese Market, plus fruits, nuts, bread and artisan crackers to complement. Wine pairings explained and sampled. Note cards available on each sampling. Takeaway notes to prepare at home. Only 60 spots available; must be attending the Wine Gala to reserve a spot.

Where: Capitol Centre -Upstairs in the Galaxy Circle Lounge.

Why: You’ll learn the nuances or pairing wine with specific cheeses and have the know-how when you hit the tasting tables. Also, all participants receive an opportunity to win a 3-month membership to the prestigious “cheese of the month” club.

When: Saturday, November 23, 2013 6:00pm – 7:15pm

How: Tickets are $40 and they are available at the Box Office 705-474-4747 150 main St. E.