Pent up longing for tasty food and fine beverages prompted the return of Tastings in the Glens. After fielding many requests since the last tastings event in 2012, the Glengarry Memorial Hospital Foundation (HGMH) decided to hold the event again in 2019.
The HGMH Foundation raises funds to support the Glengarry Memorial Hospital. Since its founding in 2002, the foundation has raised over $2 million, contributing to hospital renovations and equipment purchases.
At Tastings in the Glens, food and beverage providers will offer samples of their finest fare. Vendors consist mainly of local food and beverage producers, most within a 45-minute radius of North Glengarry, says foundation coordinator, Pam André.
Among area restaurants participating in the event is Alexandria’s Smokin’ Bull Restaurant, owned by Heidi and Adamo Licursi. Smokin’ Bull’s booth will offer the restaurant’s specialty – smoked meat brisket, according to Heidi Licursi, as well as smoked sausages, a beef and lamb mix.
Alexandria’s Quirky Carrot is partnering with local food producers, including Kirkview Farms and Upper Canada Creamery, to develop a unique menu of locally-sourced treats, says owner Julia Graham.
Several wineries will offer tastings, including Lochiel’s new Stonehouse Vineyard. Stonehouse plans to feature four wines, says co-owner Joanne Pratt, including their white Frontenac Blanc 2017, red Frontenac Noir 2016, and a sweet fortified wine called 1793.
Humble Beginnings Brewing of Ingleside, which just celebrated its first anniversary, will offer Mad Canadian Kolsch, the brewery’s most popular beer, says co-owner Susan Wallwork. Wallwork, along with husband and co-owner Pierre Doucette, will also bring their Gone Rogue American Pale Ale and Fourth and Oak Oatmeal Stout.
“Lots of options depending on peoples’ thirsts and tastes,” promises Wallwork.
Funds raised from Tastings in the Glens will go toward a “wish list” of possible equipment purchases for the hospital, says André of HGMH. Depending on the event’s success, André says, the foundation may consider making it an annual affair.
Tastings in the Glens is at Maxville’s Metcalfe Centre on Saturday, May 4, from 1 to 7 pm. A free hourly shuttle bus will be available between Alexandria’s Glengarry Sports Palace and the Metcalfe Centre. Tickets, which include three tasting tokens and some special gifts, are $25, and can be purchased at Jean Coutu in Alexandria, or by calling the HGMH Foundation at 613-525-2222 extension 4138. Additional tasting tokens can be purchased at the event.
