MY TOAST TO SIPS!
A fantastic place for fanciful finger-foods, fine fermented fruit, tannin-tasters, not to mention micro-brewed malt and morsels of mellifluous music -- in the heart of James Bay -- Victoria, British Columbia!
WELCOME TO VICTORIA!
Sips Artisan Bistro -- In the Heart of James Bay!!
SIPS, SITS, STROLLS AND MUCH MORE!
According to the hospitality industry, this city is a great getaway for romantics...be they "Royal Victorian Weddings" (fit for a Queen naturally), or simply a couple of snuggle-bunnies seeking a few sips and a stroll by the sea.
So, if you're in the mood for a sip, a sit, a stroll, and/or a smooch...then you've come to the right place! And the folks from Tourism BC, have even gone out on a limb to recommend the "Five Top Places To Kiss" is this fair city.
Believe it or not, James Bay (the capital city's oldest neighborhood), has earned the second spot on the lovers' list -- with none other than the seaside saunter along Dallas Road between Ogden Point and Clover Point, and the occasional flirtatious find from Holland Point down to a secluded spot...a beach with breathtaking views...great for puckish picnicers, pinot gris/noir people (a.k.a. wicked wine lovers).
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Image Credit: Tourism BC@flickr.com night view of the BC Legislature in James Bay, Victoria
"A meal without wine is like a day without sunshine." -- Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin from "The Physiology of Taste" (1825)
SIPS ARTISAN BISTRO -- A SUPERB SPOT TO SATIATE ONE'S APPETITE!
Sips Artisan Bistro is truly something special! It is the brainchild of Paul Hadfield, owner of Canada's oldest brewpub, Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & Guesthouses located in one of Greater Victoria's 13 municipalities, Esquimalt.
The gentrification of one of Victoria's oldest neighborhoods, James Bay (situated between the beautiful Inner Harbour with its prominent legislative building, Empress hotel and marina, Beacon Hill Park to the East, and the Outer Harbour featuring unparalleled views of the Sooke peninsula, Port Angeles and the Olympic Peninsula), created a unique opportunity to open not only a spirit merchant shop but also a bodacious bistro.
So, whether you're a Queen Bee or a King Tut, a prince dropping by with a slipper in the hopes of finding Cinderella sampling and sipping or maybe just polishing the glassware, or just a humble footman stopping by after an eight-hour shift of driving horse-drawn carriages full of visitors around the neighborhood...you'll be "empressed" with the royal treatment here.
The only thing that's missing is the red carpet...but I'm sure they'll be glad to serve you if you arrive on a flying carpet or by foot like the rest of us.
Sips Artisan Bistro: 425 Simcoe Street. For reservations, call 250.590.3519.
"Bless the products of the bovines and the vines!" -- William Cole, from 'What a Friend We Have in Cheeses!'
LOOSE YOURSELF AT LUNCH -- WITH LIGHT FARE & A LITTLE LIBATION
There's more than rabbit food...trust me!
SOUP OF THE DAY
-- Homemade Soup or Spinnakers' famous West Coast Seafood Chowder
SELECTION OF SALADS
Spinach & Blossom's Blue Cheese
Dragonfly Farm's spinach, Moonstruck blossoms blue cheese, roasted Wilbury Farm hazelnuts, pickled onion, and Spinnakers' barley wine vinaigrette
Hand-Picked Local Greens
Saanich Organics' carrots and Spinnakers' barley wine vinaigrette, and customize by adding any selections from the daily chalkboard list
Duck Confit and Fruit
Fresh or preserved local strawberries, Salt Spring Island chevre, Saanich Organics' spinach, Spinnakers' Ipa vinaigrette, and a drizzle of Babe's honey balsamic vinegar
Heirloom Tomato & Sopprasetta
Saanich Organics' arugula, Moonstruck's white grace cheese, toasted sourdough bread, with Spinnakers' Ipa vinaigrette
SUMPTUOUS SANDWICHES
Village Cheese Smoked Cheddar
Served on fresh bread with local pear & apple chutney
Smoked Albacore Tuna
Natural pastures wasabi verdelait, creme fraiche, and seasonal greens
Verjus Cured Wild Salmon
Cured wild sockeye salmon, Saltspring Island chevre, with pickled onions, served on a freshly toasted bagel
Oyama's Red Wine Proscuitto
Little Qualicum's raclette cheese, local spinach, and mead jelly
Choux Choux's Roast Beef
Served with Village Cheese Co's horseradish monterry jack, Saanich Organics greens, and grainy stout mustard
CHALKBOARD CHEESES TO CHOOSE FROM:
Moonstruck Organic Cheese (Salt Spring Island): Savoury Moon, White Grace, Blossom's Blue
Natural Pastures Cheese Co. (Comox, Vancouver Island): Island Brie, Comox Camembert, Wasabi Verdelait
Village Cheese Co. (Armstrong, BC): Smokehouse Cheddar, Horseradish Monterry Jack
Hillary's Cheese: (Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island): Valley Blue, Sacre Bleu, Red Dawn
Saltspring Island Cheese Co. (Saltspring Island, BC): Chevre
Little Qualicum Cheese Works (Parksville, Vancouver Island): Raclette
CHALKBOARD CHARCUTERIE LIST TO CHOOSE FROM:
Oyama Sausage Co. (Oyama, South Okanagan): duck prosciutto, spicy sopprasetta, red wine prosciutto
Choux Choux Charcouterie (Victoria, BC): St. Luc's Stick Salami, rosemary roast beef
MISCELLANEOUS MARINE LIFE TO CHOOSE FROM:
Smoked Sooke Trout
Verjus Cured Wild Sockeye Salmon
Smoked Albacore Tuna
Smoked Cortez Island Oysters
DEVILISLY DELIGHTFUL DESERT
Spinnakers' Truffles
An assortment of flavours made by Spinnakers' own chocolatier, Crystal Duck
Or maybe inquire about a surprise for special people -- A mouth-watering fruit-flavored sorbet, with a hint of mint, topped with a few tablespoons of "Victoria Gin"...it's akin to sin!
SEPTEMBER SIPS N' SONGS
If you're looking for a great way to tantalize your tastebuds and treat yourself to some marvellous music, then Sips Artisan Bistro in beautiful James Bay, Victoria is definitely the place for you!The music line-up for September includes:
A SIZZLING SAMPLE OF SIPS N' SONGS!
MORE ABOUT SIPS ARTISAN BISTRO
- THE BUMPF ON THE BISTRO
- This site provides information about events, wine tastings, wine school, featured products, and the menu.
- RESTAURANT REVIEW
- Carrots 'N' Cake, a food blog, features photos, as well as snippets and samples of food and wine at Sips Artisan Bistro.
- QUAINT BUT CLASSY...ANOTHER VICTORIA REVIEW
- This review rates Sips Artisan Bistro as an 8.17...worth dropping in to see and snack.
- VICTORIA WINE TASTINGS
- A blog about wine tastings hosted by Sips Artisan Bistro this spring. Wine tastings will begin again in the fall.
- A REVIEW FROM "THE LITTLE PIGGY"
- Oink oink...methinks I see an oeonophile, (a lover or connoisseur of wine), lurking about the neighborhood...photos and a review of the cheese, smoked meat and fish served plus greens...and a bottle of French Chablis.
- DINE IN VICTORIA -- SIPS NOW LISTED
- Sips Artisan Bistro and Spinnaker's Gastro Brewpub now offer a full delivery service for their Corporate Lunch Program.
- L IS FOR LARRY, SPINNAKERS SPIRIT MERCHANTS STORE MANAGER
- Introducing Larry Arnold, Spinnakers Spirit Merchants Store Manager at the wine tasting bar, "Sips Artisan Bistro", who has worked diligently for many years to ensure that wine is poured when food is being served throughout the capital city.
- LARRY'S PICK FOR A LIGHT LIBATION!
- Larry Arnold's suggestion for a rather fine sip!
- JANALEE AND TONI KNOW A GOOD TAPAS BAR WHEN THEY SEE ONE!
- Janalee, (a James Bay resident) and a Jazz vocalist, is accompanied by Toni Blodgett -- performing at Sips Artisan Bistro and Beacon Hill Park this summer!
MELLIFLUOUS MELODIES, A MERLOT, MUNCHIES ...AND ME!
What more can you ask for?
As the 20th century British poet and critic, Dame Edith Sitwell once said, "Good taste is the worst vice ever invented."And, you can be sure that at Sips Artisan Bistro, good taste is never in short supply either by patrons who frequent this understated nibbler's nook, or the passionate people who serve and satiate the palates of plebians or the posh nosh.
So, whether you're looking for a light lunch and libation, a sip and a simple snack after work, or an evening of music, merlot, munchies and good company, "Sips" offer a variety of British Columbia wines by the glass paired with artisan meats, cheeses, Vancouver Island poultry, and fresh or smoked West Coast seafood.
WHAT'S NEW THIS FALL AT "SIPS"?
HOW TO WET YOUR WHISTLE
Larry Arnold, General Manager and Product Consultant for Spinnakers Spirit Merchants, and Sips Artisan Bistro is definitely a "friend of fermented fruit"!In the September/October 2009 issue of "Eat Magazine" (celebrating food and drink in British Columbia), Larry recommends a few wicked wines to wet your whistle or just enjoy them with finger food.
WHITES
Domaine du Tariquet Sauvignon Blanc 2003 France ($16-$19) -- "A French Sauvinon Blanc from the Cotes de Gascogne region...crisp and refreshing with intense citrus, melon and mineral nuances, nicely balanced with good acidity and long clean finish."
Torley Chapel Hill Pinot Grigio 2008 Hungary ($13-$15) -- "An unpretentious litte Pinot Grigio that is light and refreshing with soft apple and citrus flavours."
Little Straw Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2007 British Columbia ($17-$19), --- "Little Straw is a family-owned winery located on the lower slopes of Mt. Boucherie, just outside of Kelowna. Fresh and lively with subtle citrus and floral notes on the nose with more than a hint of pink grapefruit on the palate!'"
Domaine de Grachies Blanc 2008 France ($13-$15) -- "A blend of Combard, Ugni Blanc and Gros Mansang...from the Cotes de Gascogne in southwest France. It is very fresh with subtle grapefruit, apple and citrus flavours, in essence a wine of simple charm."
REDS
Pesquie Cotes du Ventoux Les Terrasses 2007 France ($18-$20) -- "Fat and lush with black cherry, raspberry and spice flavours, velvety tannins and a finish of great length and resolve."
Bisceglia Aglianico del Vulture 2006 Italy ($20-$23) -- An organic wine from a remote region of southern Italy, "it is dark and potent with an earty fecundity that is lusty but not unattractive. The fruit is all there but so are the tannins and acidity. In essence this is a wine not for the faint of heart, the timid or those with a dainty palate. It is concentrated, robust, chewy and damn near impenetrable! Very highly recommended but needs air, patience and plenty of fortitude."
Twin Islands Pinot Noir 2007 New Zealand ($22-$24) -- "Medium-bodied with red cherry, strawberry, sweet barnyard and spicy oak aromas, a silky smooth texture and simple fruit flavours. Soft and very easy to like."
Fairview Cellars Cabernet France 2007 British Columbia ($25-$28) -- Located at the north end of the Golden Mile in Oliver, BC, this six-acre vineyard is dedicated exclusively to Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. "Balanced and supple with concentrated black currant and bell pepper flavours, medium-bodied with soft tannins and good length. Highly recommended."
Delas Saint-Esprit Cotes du Rhone 2007 France ($18-$20) -- "Made from a blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre and Carignan, this sumptuous Rhone red is lip-smacking good with generous blackberry, pepper and spice flavours, a round supple texture and a soft fruit filled finish."
Montes Alpha Syrah 2006 Chile ($28-$30) -- "Generous and rip with heady layers of blackberry, pepper and roasted coffee flavours, full bodied with soft tannins and a long smooth finish."
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Image Credit: Combined Media@flickr.com
"This wine should be eaten, for it is much too good to be drunk." --- Jonathan Swift (1667-1745), Anglo-Irish satirist and essayist
THE BEST BISTRO IN TOWN FOR QUAFFERS, QUEENS, AND QUICK-WITTED FOLK
Among other things, this bubbling bistro played host to a quirky queenly event this spring, the "Feast of Fools" which brought together a diverse community crowd representing businesses, non-profit organizations, as well as rollicking residents of the neighborhood who wished to honor April Fool's Day. It was reported that "a good time was had by all", (i.e. everyone who sampled some rather funny-named wines, and ate appies in between smiling and saying nice things about the host who was, needless to say, easily amused).
HRH QQ also had the pleasure of attending some great wine tasting events, and catch a glimpse of the lively local entertainment now at Sips.
And, as part of her royal duties, HRH QQ recently appeared on Menzies Street to assist two out-of-town visitors who were seeking directions to Sips Artisan Bistro. They had just finished a wine tour and were walking about the Inner Harbour, hoping that someone would guide them to this highly recommended gourmet grape spot.
Never missing a beat, HRH QQ, took this wonderful Florida couple (who previously resided in Saskatchewan and the Golden Triangle of Ontario), on short tour of the James Bay neighborhood...and then introduced them to Brian, the affable and amusing sommelier on staff. Keen to taste a few tidbits and enjoy a few local libations on a warm summer afternoon, they invited HRH QQ, to join them.
Truly a finger-food and fine wine feast ... a variety of cheeses, smoked seafood, and fresh bread, to accompany our red and white wines from Vancouver Island and the Interior, a spoonful of Venturi-Schulze balsamic vinegar...to die for, not to mention a delightful dessert -- mango-flavored sorbet with fresh mint and several splashes of "Victoria Gin", followed by those lip-smacking Spinnakers' chocolate truffles!
You'll be happy to know that Joe and Karen returned the following day...to enjoy more treats, pick up some sipping souvenirs, and remind everyone that they will be returning to Victoria to shop for a new retirement home!
"Drinking good wine with good food in good company is one of life's most civilized pleasures."--- Michael Broadbent
PALATE & PUCKER-POWER POLL
Do those who have pucker-power also have a precocious palate? Well, take this poll and find out!
LARRY'S WINE TASTING EVENT
Wine-tasting event hosted by Larry Arnold, Product Consultant for Spinnakers Wine, Beer & Spirit Merchants - Thursday, October 22, 4-5:30 pm, featuring wines from Hillside Estate Winery in Penticton, B.C.
BATTY BOOKMARKS FOR BEER & BORDEAUX ENTHUSIASTS
THE BISTRO BOOKSHELF
Perfect Pairings: A Master Sommelier's Practical Advice for Partnering Wine with Food
A good introduction to what food goes with what wine (Note: not advisable for those who insist on whining while dining).
Amazon Price: $19.77 (as of 11/30/2009) 
British Columbia Wine Country
A great handbook to have if you're interested in visiting some BC wineries on Vancouver Island and the Interior!
Amazon Price: $25.04 (as of 11/30/2009)
John Schreiner's Okanagan Wine Tour Guide
Welcome to that nice little niche known as the "Napa Valley of the North"!
Amazon Price: $15.56 (as of 11/30/2009)
Wine & Cheese Pairing Guide: Your Exciting Search for Wow! Combinations
Don't cheese me off, or Santa Claus won't bring you any treats to you this year!
Amazon Price: $10.85 (as of 11/30/2009)
Victoria: The Unknown City
Victoria has many secrets...some of them hidden away to all but the locals...and some of them ...well let's just say they're very juicy!
Amazon Price: $19.95 (as of 11/30/2009)
GUESTBOOK FOR GASTRONOMISTS
For those who've had a chance to sample and savor the flavors of rather fine local food not to mention some wicked wines...feel free to leave your impressions. And, for those who haven't tried...just wend your way to James Bay for some choice chinwagging, cheese and pretty well anything you please in the way of tantalizing treats!
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- diwine diwine Aug 7, 2009 @ 12:13 am
- Nice work...www.diwineonline.com
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- bdkz bdkz Jun 29, 2009 @ 9:19 am
- Excellent lens!
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- rms rms Jun 29, 2009 @ 5:55 am
- sounds delightful!
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- BigGirlBlue BigGirlBlue Jun 28, 2009 @ 11:59 pm
- Well done!
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