The recent launch of Diamond Estates’ Hat Trick series of wines in collaboration with the NHL Alumni Association is great news for the hockey fan and wine connoisseur alike – which, as Canadians, should be the majority of you.
Appropriately held at the Hockey Hall of Fame, we had the chance to experience both of the new hockey-inspired VQA wines, ‘Hat Trick White’ and ‘Hat Trick Red’, amongst some of the game’s greats in attendance. Our party of two was split when it came to choosing favourites, a telling sign that both the red and white are sure to be a hit. We were also treated to a host of delicious appetizers, with mini lobster sandwiches and poutine balls topping our list.
The white, a three-varietal blend of Gewurztraminer, Riesling, and Chardonnay, is the perfect complement to any seafood dish and leaves an overall fruity aftertaste. In contrast, the red is a great BBQ companion that blends Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Shiraz with hints of spice and vanilla.
Convinced that the tasteful wine and food pairings would be the highlight of a memorable evening at the HHOF, we happened to catch NHL legend Johnny Bower (also known as “The China Wall”) on the way out for a quick chat and bottle signing. We also learned that 50 cents from each bottle sold goes to the NHL Alumni Association to support various charitable causes and promote the game of hockey – it doesn’t get more notable than that.