La Cuvée One Drop Toronto September 18

THIS EVENT IS NOW COMPLETE

The Vintage Conservatory, King Street West

 224 King Street West, Toronto ON M5H 1K4

The One Drop Foundation, created by Guy Laliberté and its curating partner, The Académie du Vin, are proud to invite you to an exceptional philanthropic event dedicated to addressing the urgent water and climate crisis. We are privileged to have Daniel Johnnes as our Guest of Honour, lending his esteemed presence to this vital cause.

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* A Tax receipt will be provided for a portion of all tickets

Daniel Johnnes with bottles of wine

Truly an unforgettable series of events!

Whether you attend one, some, or all events, we promise a memorable experience with exceptional wines, enticing meals, and expert wine guides to enrich your experience.

We are eagerly anticipating your presence at these events!

Here’s what’s in store:

Event 1: A Refined Wine-Tasting Lunch: Co-hosted by the esteemed Daniel Johnnes, founder of La Paulée de New York, La Tablée, and Pressoir, co-founder of La Fête du Champagne, and Corporate Wine Director for Chef Daniel Boulud, together with Frank Davis, celebrated for his impressive expertise in the world of wine.

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At a beautifully set table adorned with elegant stemware, guests will gather for a refined wine-tasting lunch co-hosted by the esteemed Daniel Johnnes, founder of La Paulée de New York, La Tablée, and Pressoir, co-founder of La Fête du Champagne, and Corporate Wine Director for Chef Daniel Boulud, together with Frank Davis, celebrated for his impressive expertise in the world of wine. The afternoon will feature a carefully selected three-course meal that will match beautifully with the complexity of the wines.

The highlight of the lunch will be Daniel and Frank’s expert commentary, offering guests unique and intellectually stimulating insights into the wines, including:

On arrival: Agrapart Champagne Grand Cru Minéral Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut 2015 En Magnum. 

  • Bouchard Père et Fils Chevalier-Montrachet Domaine 2009 En Magnum: This prestigious white Burgundy offers rich, complex aromas of ripe stone fruits, honey, and toasted nuts. It has a luxurious texture and a long, mineral finish.
  • Bouchard Père et Fils Chevalier-Montrachet La Cabotte 2009 En Magnum: Known for its elegant balance of citrus and floral notes combined with a creamy, full-bodied palate and a persistent, refined finish.
  • Bouchard Père et Fils Montrachet 2009 En Magnum: A top-tier Chardonnay from one of Burgundy’s most celebrated Grand Cru vineyards, showcasing intense flavours of pear, vanilla, and toasted oak, with a creamy texture and exceptional length.
  • Domaine Bruno Clair Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St. Jacques 2009 En Magnum: A distinguished red Burgundy with a bouquet of red berries, spices, and earthy undertones, featuring a refined, structured palate with well-integrated tannins and a long, elegant finish.
  • Louis Jadot Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St. Jacques Domaine Louis Jadot 2009 En Magnum: Offering a classic profile of dark cherry and blackberry, complemented by earthy and spicy nuances, with a robust structure and a beautifully balanced finish.
  • Domaine Fourrier Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St. Jacques Vieille Vigne 2009 En Magnum: Known for its depth and complexity, delivering flavours of black fruits, earthy notes, and a hint of spice, with a refined texture and an impressive, persistent finish.
  • Sylvie Esmonin (Michel et Fille) Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St. Jacques 2009 En Magnum: Exhibiting a rich bouquet of dark berries, floral hints, and subtle oak, with a silky texture and a harmonious balance between fruit, acidity, and tannins.
  • Domaine Armand Rousseau Père et Fils Gevrey-Chambertin 1er Cru Clos St. Jacques 2009 En Magnum: A highly regarded Pinot Noir with layers of red and black fruits, along with earthy and spicy elements, featuring a full-bodied structure and a long, elegant finish.

The prestige of having Daniel as our guest of honour at the table will elevate the event, turning the lunch into an unforgettable sensory journey.

After lunch, a fascinating walk-around wine-tasting journey starts in the elegant Vintage Conservatory King West ground floor lounge and gracefully progresses up to the 4th floor. Along the way, guests discover ten thoughtfully curated stations offering a unique selection of wines from renowned regions worldwide, including Ontario, the USA, the UK, France, Spain and Portugal. Each station is an invitation to explore the rich diversity of global viticulture, guided by a team of highly experienced local and international wine professionals who share their deep knowledge and passion. As a special highlight, the Académie du Vin presents an array of mystery wines, adding an element of surprise and intrigue to this unforgettable journey through the world of wine.

While there is a veritable host of iconic, aged, and rare wines often only seen at auctions in New York and Hong Kong, here are some of the highlights:

  1. Bernard Bonin Meursault Clos du Cromin 2019: A refined white Burgundy with a rich texture, showcasing notes of ripe pear, hazelnuts, and subtle oak. This Meursault delivers vibrant acidity balanced by a creamy, luxurious finish.
  2. Henri Magnien Gevrey Chambertin Champerrier: This red Burgundy offers a blend of dark cherry, blackberry, and earthy undertones. It has a structured palate and fine-grained tannins, embodied by the robust yet elegant style of Gevrey-Chambertin.
  3. Robert Chevillon Nuits St Georges 1er cru Pruliers 2009: A complex and mature Pinot Noir with layers of red and black fruit, spice, and a hint of leather. Its velvety tannins and lingering finish reflect its age and pedigree.
  4. Domaine Leflaive Puligny Montrachet 2018: A prestigious Chardonnay known for its precision and elegance. It features citrus, white flower, and mineral notes, with a balanced acidity and a long, clean finish.
  5. Domaine Jacques Frederic Mugnier Chambolle Musigny 2019: A graceful and delicate red Burgundy with bright red fruit, floral notes, and silky tannins. It is a quintessential expression of Chambolle-Musigny’s finesse and charm.
  6. Cathiard Vineyard Founding Brothers Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2020: A bold and powerful Napa Cab with intense blackcurrant, plum, and mocha flavours. The wine is rich and full-bodied, with a firm tannic structure and a long, opulent finish.
  7. Tertre Roteboeuf St. Emilion 2000: A mature Bordeaux blend with a harmonious mix of dark fruit, tobacco, and earthy notes. It’s velvety and lush, with a long, complex finish that reflects its right-bank origins.

This afternoon’s event continues with the Auction of Distinction, led by the esteemed auctioneer Stephen Ranger. Elevate your experience with an exclusive array of 25 auction lots featuring rare wines and extraordinary travel experiences to Bordeaux, California, and South Africa. This compelling live auction promises an unforgettable conclusion to a remarkable afternoon.

11:30 am – 6:30 pm September 18, 2024

 


 

Event 2: A walk-around tasting and auction. Throughout the space, participants can enjoy a walk-around tasting event. Interacting with expert sommeliers and fellow wine lovers, guests will explore a diverse range of wines at ten thoughtfully curated stations.

Learn More

A fascinating walk-around wine-tasting journey starts in the elegant Vintage Conservatory King West ground floor lounge and gracefully progresses up to the 4th floor. Along the way, guests discover ten thoughtfully curated stations offering a unique selection of wines from renowned regions worldwide, including Ontario, the USA, the UK, France, Spain and Portugal. Each station is an invitation to explore the rich diversity of global viticulture, guided by a team of highly experienced local and international wine professionals who share their deep knowledge and passion. As a special highlight, the Académie du Vin presents an array of mystery wines, adding an element of surprise and intrigue to this unforgettable journey through the world of wine.

While there is a veritable host of iconic, aged, and rare wines often only seen at auctions in New York and Hong Kong, here are some of the highlights:

  1. Bernard Bonin Meursault Clos du Cromin 2019: A refined white Burgundy with a rich texture, showcasing notes of ripe pear, hazelnuts, and subtle oak. This Meursault delivers vibrant acidity balanced by a creamy, luxurious finish.
  2. Henri Magnien Gevrey Chambertin Champerrier: This red Burgundy offers a blend of dark cherry, blackberry, and earthy undertones. It has a structured palate and fine-grained tannins, embodied by the robust yet elegant style of Gevrey-Chambertin.
  3. Robert Chevillon Nuits St Georges 1er cru Pruliers 2009: A complex and mature Pinot Noir with layers of red and black fruit, spice, and a hint of leather. Its velvety tannins and lingering finish reflect its age and pedigree.
  4. Domaine Leflaive Puligny Montrachet 2018: A prestigious Chardonnay known for its precision and elegance. It features citrus, white flower, and mineral notes, with a balanced acidity and a long, clean finish.
  5. Domaine Jacques Frederic Mugnier Chambolle Musigny 2019: A graceful and delicate red Burgundy with bright red fruit, floral notes, and silky tannins. It is a quintessential expression of Chambolle-Musigny’s finesse and charm.
  6. Cathiard Vineyard Founding Brothers Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2020: A bold and powerful Napa Cab with intense blackcurrant, plum, and mocha flavours. The wine is rich and full-bodied, with a firm tannic structure and a long, opulent finish.
  7. Tertre Roteboeuf St. Emilion 2000: A mature Bordeaux blend with a harmonious mix of dark fruit, tobacco, and earthy notes. It’s velvety and lush, with a long, complex finish that reflects its right-bank origins.

This afternoon’s event continues with the Auction of Distinction, led by the esteemed auctioneer Stephen Ranger. Elevate your experience with an exclusive array of 25 auction lots featuring rare wines and extraordinary travel experiences to Bordeaux, California, and South Africa. This compelling live auction promises an unforgettable conclusion to a remarkable afternoon.

3:30 pm – 6:30 pm September 18, 2024

 


 

Event 3: Culinary Mastery: Indulge in an exquisite epicurean adventure with a bespoke food and wine pairing menu meticulously crafted by the esteemed culinary artisans of the Vintage Conservatory.

Learn More

This experience begins with a fascinating walk-around wine-tasting journey, starting in the elegant Vintage Conservatory King West ground floor lounge and gracefully progressing to the 4th floor. Along the way, guests discover ten thoughtfully curated stations offering a unique selection of wines from renowned regions worldwide, including Ontario, the USA, the UK, France, Spain and Portugal. Each station is an invitation to explore the rich diversity of global viticulture, guided by a team of highly experienced local and international wine professionals who share their deep knowledge and passion. As a special highlight, the Académie du Vin presents an array of mystery wines, adding an element of surprise and intrigue to this unforgettable journey through the world of wine.

While there is a veritable host of iconic, aged, and rare wines often only seen at auctions in New York and Hong Kong, here are some of the highlights:

  1. Bernard Bonin Meursault Clos du Cromin 2019: A refined white Burgundy with a rich texture, showcasing notes of ripe pear, hazelnuts, and subtle oak. This Meursault delivers vibrant acidity balanced by a creamy, luxurious finish.
  2. Henri Magnien Gevrey Chambertin Champerrier: This red Burgundy offers a blend of dark cherry, blackberry, and earthy undertones. It has a structured palate and fine-grained tannins, embodied by the robust yet elegant style of Gevrey-Chambertin.
  3. Robert Chevillon Nuits St Georges 1er cru Pruliers 2009: A complex and mature Pinot Noir with layers of red and black fruit, spice, and a hint of leather. Its velvety tannins and lingering finish reflect its age and pedigree.
  4. Domaine Leflaive Puligny Montrachet 2018: A prestigious Chardonnay known for its precision and elegance. It features citrus, white flower, and mineral notes, with a balanced acidity and a long, clean finish.
  5. Domaine Jacques Frederic Mugnier Chambolle Musigny 2019: A graceful and delicate red Burgundy with bright red fruit, floral notes, and silky tannins. It is a quintessential expression of Chambolle-Musigny’s finesse and charm.
  6. Cathiard Vineyard Founding Brothers Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2020: A bold and powerful Napa Cab with intense blackcurrant, plum, and mocha flavours. The wine is rich and full-bodied, with a firm tannic structure and a long, opulent finish.
  7. Tertre Roteboeuf St. Emilion 2000: A mature Bordeaux blend with a harmonious mix of dark fruit, tobacco, and earthy notes. It’s velvety and lush, with a long, complex finish that reflects its right-bank origins.

This afternoon’s event continues with the Auction of Distinction, led by the esteemed auctioneer Stephen Ranger. Elevate your experience with an exclusive array of 25 auction lots featuring rare wines and extraordinary travel experiences to Bordeaux, California, and South Africa. This compelling live auction promises an unforgettable conclusion to a remarkable afternoon.

Following the auction, indulge in a sumptuous 5-course dinner, each course paired with a selection of exquisite wines. Guests will enjoy the curated menu and the chance to mingle with Daniel Johnnes and other connoisseurs, gaining insights from one of the wine industry’s most influential personalities.

The evening begins with a reception serving Bollinger Champagne La Grande Année 2014 en Magnum. It continues with the wines listed below:

  1. Domaine Bernard-Bonin Puligny-Montrachet 1er Cru Les Folatières 2019: A refined Premier Cru Chardonnay with vibrant acidity, featuring notes of ripe pear and citrus, complemented by a distinct minerality and a long, elegant finish.
  2. Domaine Leflaive Bâtard-Montrachet 2019: A powerful Grand Cru Chardonnay offering rich layers of stone fruit, butter, and hazelnut, balanced by strong minerality and remarkable depth, with excellent aging potential.
  3. Domaine Ramonet Bâtard-Montrachet 2019: A Grand Cru white Burgundy known for its rich, creamy texture and complex notes of ripe stone fruits, honey, and toasted nuts.
  4. Château Smith Haut Lafitte Blanc 2008 En Double Magnum: An elegant Bordeaux white with citrus, stone fruit, and floral notes, balanced by vibrant acidity and a long, refreshing finish.
  5. Domaine Dujac Clos de la Roche 2007: A renowned Grand Cru Pinot Noir with a deep, structured profile featuring dark cherry, plum, and earthy nuances, complemented by a touch of spice.
  6. Domaine Ponsot Clos de la Roche Vieilles Vignes 2007: This prestigious Pinot Noir offers a sophisticated bouquet of red berries, forest floor, and subtle floral hints, with a beautifully balanced and persistent finish.
  7. Domaine de la Romanée-Conti La Tâche 2001: An exceptional Grand Cru with an opulent palate of blackberries, violets, and a touch of truffle, showcasing extraordinary depth and elegance.
  8. Domaine de la Romanée-Conti La Tâche 2006: Known for its powerful and nuanced profile, this vintage presents flavours of dark fruit, exotic spices, and a hint of tobacco, with a remarkably long finish.
  9. Château d’Yquem 1975: A legendary Sauternes with an exquisite balance of sweetness and acidity, featuring luscious flavours of honey, apricot, caramel, and an enduring, elegant finish.

Prepare for an evening of unparalleled sophistication and delight.

3:30 pm – 10:30 pm September 18, 2024


 

Event 4: A Day of Wine, Culinary Mastery, and Philanthropy

Immerse yourself in a full day of unparalleled wine and culinary experiences at Toronto’s prestigious Vintage Conservatory. This exclusive event is designed to delight your senses and deepen your appreciation for fine wine and cuisine, all while contributing to a meaningful cause.

Learn More

Your Day Includes:

Refined Wine-Tasting Lunch: Begin your day with an elegant lunch co-hosted by the esteemed Daniel Johnnes, founder of La Paulée de New York, La Tablée, and Pressoir, and Frank Davis, renowned for his expertise in the world of wine. Savour a carefully curated three-course meal with exceptional wines, including rare magnums from Burgundy. Daniel and Frank will provide expert commentary, offering unique insights into each wine, making this lunch an educational and sensory delight.

Walk-Around Wine-Tasting Journey: After lunch, embark on a fascinating wine-tasting journey through the Vintage Conservatory. Explore ten thoughtfully curated stations featuring a diverse selection of wines from renowned regions worldwide, including Ontario, the USA, the UK, France, Spain, and Portugal. Each station is an invitation to discover the rich diversity of global viticulture, guided by highly experienced local and international wine professionals. A special highlight includes mystery wines presented by the Académie du Vin, adding an element of surprise to your tasting adventure.

Auction of Distinction: The day continues with the Auction of Distinction, led by the esteemed auctioneer Stephen Ranger. This exciting live auction features an exclusive array of rare wines and extraordinary travel experiences to Bordeaux, California, and South Africa. Proceeds from the 25 auction lots will support the One Drop Foundation’s mission to solve the water and climate crisis, making your participation both impactful and memorable.

Culinary Mastery Dinner: Conclude your day with an exquisite five-course dinner meticulously crafted by the culinary artisans of the Vintage Conservatory. Each course is paired with a selection of extraordinary wines, including legendary vintages from Burgundy. The evening begins with a magnum of Champagne and continues with wines such as Domaine Leflaive Bâtard-Montrachet 2019 and Domaine de la Romanée-Conti La Tâche 2006. This dining experience is the perfect finale to a day dedicated to the art of wine and fine dining.

11:30 am – 10:30 pm, September 18, 2024


 

Daniel Johnnes
Guest of honour Daniel Johnnes, Founder, La Paulée de New York, La Tablée, and Pressoir, co-founder of La Fête du Champagne, and Corporate Wine Director for Chef Daniel Boulud

Guest of Honour - Daniel Johnnes Bio:

Daniel Johnnes, a prominent figure in the world of food and wine, has long been inspired by his deep passion for French culture. His journey began with a transformative visit to France in 1974, where he fell in love with the language, cuisine, and wine. After studying French and working in renowned kitchens like Guy Savoy in Paris, Johnnes returned to New York. He transitioned to front-of-house roles, including working alongside a young Daniel Boulud at Le Regence. This collaboration marked the beginning of a lasting professional relationship.

In 1985, Johnnes joined the team opening Montrachet in Tribeca, a restaurant that quickly earned the title of ‘New York’s finest wine restaurant.’ It was here that he launched La Paulée de New York, a prestigious wine event celebrating Burgundy wines. This event, which has since raised significant funds for charity, has become a cornerstone of the wine industry. During his twenty years as Wine Director at Montrachet and the Myriad Restaurant Group, Johnnes also founded an import company, representing esteemed estates such as Domaine Georges Roumier and Domaine des Comtes Lafon.

In 2005, Johnnes reunited with Daniel Boulud as the corporate Wine Director for the Dinex Group, overseeing the wine programs for Boulud’s global restaurant empire. His achievements include multiple James Beard Awards and recognition from the French Republic as a Chevalier de l’Ordre du Mérite. Beyond La Paulée, Johnnes created La Fête du Champagne and La Tablée and founded Pressoir.wine to provide wine education and unique experiences. Known as “the dean of American Sommeliers,” he continues to mentor the next generation through the Sommelier Scholarship Fund.

Frank Davis Bio:

Frank Davis, a distinguished lawyer based in Toronto, is also celebrated for his impressive expertise in the world of wine. Beyond his legal career, Davis has developed a deep passion for oenology, honing his knowledge through years of study and exploration. His expertise extends to wine tasting, collection, and the art of pairing wines with diverse cuisines. Davis is known for his ability to discuss wine with the same analytical precision he applies in his legal practice, making him a respected figure in both the legal and wine communities.

Wine Auctioneer - Stephen Ranger Bio:

Stephen Ranger is a leading figure in wine auctions, with a distinguished career spanning over two decades. As one of Canada’s foremost wine auctioneers, Ranger has curated and conducted some of the country’s most prestigious wine auctions, earning a reputation for his deep knowledge of fine and rare wines. His expertise extends beyond just the hammer, as he is known for his keen understanding of the global wine market and the nuances of wine valuation.

Ranger has played a pivotal role in elevating the profile of wine auctions in Canada, working with top collectors, wineries, and connoisseurs to bring exceptional vintages to auction. His ability to connect with both sellers and buyers, combined with his engaging auctioneering style, has made him a trusted and sought-after expert in the field. Whether it’s rare Bordeaux, Burgundy, or New World wines, Stephen Ranger’s name is synonymous with excellence in wine auctions.

We eagerly anticipate your presence as we unite in solidarity for a cause that transcends borders and transforms lives.

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