Embassy Events
From the Embassy Cellars to the Canadian Market
Past Events
The Embassy of Portugal in Canada and AICEP in partnership with SommWise Inc., presented an insider’s look at one of Europe’s most dynamic wine-producing nations.
This guided tasting showcased a curated selection of Portuguese wines, highlighting indigenous grape varieties and distinctive regional styles. Guests explored varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Baga, Encruzado, Alvarinho, and Viosinho, with wines sourced from leading regions including the Douro, Dão, Bairrada, Vinho Verde, and Alentejo.
On Thursday, May 28th from 1:00pm to 3:00pm we presented an in-depth, classroom-style tasting designed for wine industry professionals. The session concluded with light appetizers and an opportunity to connect with peers.
These are seated, trade-focused event with limited capacity. The waitlist is now closed. Thank you for your interest in our events. Check back for updates!
From The Embassy Cellars: Portugal
From The Embassy Cellars: Guyana
Exploring Demerara Rum
On Thursday, May 14th, 2026 the Guyana High Commission and SommWise Inc. collaborated for a Masterclass on Demerara Rums. A collection of Rums from the historic Diamond Distillery were tasted and scored by a collection of distinguished wine & spirits experts.
Guests were also treated to the traditional food and beverages of Guyana including Sorrel and Cassava Pone.
The event was covered by veteran wine & spirits writer Jane Staples for Ottawa Life Magazine. A link to the article can be found here:
From The Embassy Cellars: Argentina
November 27th, 2025
The Embassy of Argentina in Canada, Wines of Argentina (WOFA), and SommWise Inc. presented a Masterclass of Argentine wines at the Ambassador’s Residence in Ottawa. Going beyond Malbec from the high-altitude vineyards of Salta to the windswept valleys of Patagonia, over 30 industry experts discovered the incredible range of grape varieties and unique terroirs that Argentina proudly offers. Meatings perfectly paired some fantastic local bites that showcased the country’s rich culinary traditions.
A special thank you to Her Excellency, Ambassador Josefina Martínez Gramuglia, and Counsellor Pablo Castagnino, Senior Trade Commissioner, for their contributions. The event was covered by veteran food & drink writer Jane Staples from Ottawa Life Magazine, and the article can be found here:
Beyond Malbec – An Exclusive Wine Tasting From the Embassy of Argentina Cellars - Ottawa Life Magazine
Korean Sip & Spirit:
Crafting Ancient Drinks for Modern Tastes
Friday, May 30th, 2025
The Korean Cultural Centre and SommWise Inc. brought together 50 industry experts for a tasting of some of South Korea’s finest traditional beverages including Cheongju, Yakju, Makgeolli, and Soju. Over 2 hours the audience was treated to an educational masterclass along with tutored tastings. The event also featured food pairings provided by Naru Catering in Ottawa.
See what veteran journalist Jane Staples wrote about the event for Ottawa Life Magazine here:
Korean Sip & Spirit: Ancient Drinks for Modern Tastes - Ottawa Life Magazine
Watch Tim’s interview for Arirang TV’s Kulture Wave:
[K-Correspondent] Korean traditional drinks introduced in Canada
Read about our event on Ko-Can Breaking News:
From the Embassy Cellars: South Africa
Wednesday, April 30th, 2025
In collaboration with the South African High Commission in Ottawa and Wines of South Africa (WOSA), SommWise Inc. guided 25 industry experts through a guided tasting and educational seminar. The event focused on three of South Africa’s most prolific wine styles - Cap Classique, Chenin Blanc, and Pinotage. His Excellency Rieaz Shaik was a gracious host as he welcomed the group at the Ambassador’s Residence. Traditional South African appetizers were provided by Langi Mtimkulu of Tsatsisun Catering.
From the Embassy Cellars: Wines of Austria
Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024
The Austrian Embassy in Ottawa and Advantage Austria partnered with SommWise Inc. on an intimate masterclass and guided tasting with 22 of Ottawa’s finest wine professionals. Guests learned about, and sampled Austria’s traditional varieties including Gruner Veltliner, Zweigelt and Blaufränkisch. His Excellency Andreas Rendl and his wife Mrs. Eva Fuchs-Rendl were kind enough to have the event in the dining room of the Ambassador’s Residence. Thank you to all that attended.
Quite the Mouthful: The Language of Food and Wine
In partnership with the Crave Food & Wine festival SommWise Inc. hosted a masterclass at the CrEATe Kitchen on food and wine pairing.
From the Embassy Cellars: Croatia, Georgia & Hungary
Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024
The Embassy of Croatia graciously hosted SommWise Inc.’s inaugural event featuring the wines and food of Croatia, Georgia & Hungary. Thirty guests were treated to a masterclass and tutored tasting of 9 unique Eastern European wines including Graševina, Saperavi and Tokaji.
Read about our event on the Embassy of Georgia in Canada’s website
“Presentations were so informative! Even I found some new information about Georgian wine.” - Bakari Makaridze, Embassy of Georgia to Canada
