One of our guests favourite parts of the annual SMS Equipment wine auction in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters Wood Buffalo is the opportunity to try exceptional wines available by the glass at the bar. Whether you’re new to the event or an experienced wine lover, the event bars offer a unique opportunity to try something new and try something exceptional.
This year is no different. Dr. Carl Deane, the event’s dedicated wine guru works with the Wine Cellar and Vines to leverage their collective expertise to bring incredible bottles for event guests from Level 1 house wines to superlative Level 4 wines that can cost over $150 a bottle – if you were even able to find it to purchase!
Ready to learn more about your bar offerings this year? Here’s a sampling of what’s in store when you join us at You had me at MERLOT all in support of local children and youth…
Level 1 – Don’t let our house level wines mislead you, they are still delicious by-the-glass offerings like this 2010 Ferraton Gigondas Murailles, complex, aromas of very ripe sour cherries, light spices and black pepper. Palate: smooth tannins. Rich and long-lasting wine.
Level 2 – A step up from our house wines adds another level of opportunity for guests to try something new or savour a favourite blend like this 2007 Huarpe Guayquil Mendoza Argentina. 
This blend, 80% Malbec and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, is produced only in exceptional vintages, and in limited quantities (1,500 cases). It is the result of a rigorous selection process in both the vineyard and cellar. The Huarpe Winery Selection expertly marries the fruit and power of Malbec with the structure and backbone of the Cabernet Sauvignon evoking a wine that is at once balanced, complex and completely delicious. With great aging potential, this is one of the most powerful wines in the portfolio as well as one of the best food wines available, pairing well with everything from steak to pastas.
Level 3 – This premium level offers incredible by-the-glass vintages for guests really looking for the opportunity to savour every sip throughout the evening like this 2010 Cliff Lede High Fidelity Stags Leap Napa Valley – a good full ruby-red. Aromas of plum, tobacco and brown spices, with a floral topnote I did not find in the Stags Leap cabernet. Plush, suave and fine-grained, with lovely inner-mouth perfume to the plum, spice and graphite flavors. Classy and full of personality. Finishes long and supple, with late-arriving dusty tannins.
Level 4 –The truly unique, rare, ultra premium by the glass wines are ALWAYS the first to sell out at the bar so be sure not to miss out on trying a glass while they last! What can you expect? How about sipping a 2009 Aphrodite Barossa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon – ripe and supple, this is juicy with black cherry and coffee flavors on a medium-weight frame, lingering impressively on the finish against a modicum of crunchy tannins. Offers layers of flavors and a long finish, promising a long future.
Sound tempting? Join us September 26th at the Sawridge Inn & Conference Centre. Tickets are available by emailing info@fortmcmurraywineauction.ca or call 780.791.2447
