David Hulley

David Hulley

On Wine

David's articles are reproduced with the permission of the Business Executive.

Step Out and Step Up

It is well known that victory will go to those who divide and conquer. Most often this has a very ominous tone, but when it comes to wines we can all win. To begin, the presentation of a new wine or series of wines to the public must always have a clear message and market. Most often this key segmentation is based solely on price. Still, it is important to note that wineries are organic, developing places in constant creative flux. They must express this change or die as a business.
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The teacher and ambassador at large

It is true that the apple does not fall far from the tree. Greatness begets great-ness and I’m not using that term lightly. Walter Gretzky, the father of “the Great One” is simply a force of nature. I had the distinct pleasure of his company during a recent food and wine festival in Quebec City. It was an inspirational experience that I will never forget.
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Successful vacations travel on stomachs

The term “stay-cation” has been with us for well over a year and many lament the general loss of exotic travel in our lives. However, we in Southern Ontario have no reason to bemoan the idea of staying close to home for our outings and vacations. Our “neighbourhood” is rich.
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The proof is in the Pudding

If there is anyone out there who still believes that Ontario is an international wine industry bumpkin, I have more evidence to the contrary. It is a fact that we can produce one of the most challenging wine varietals in the world to standards that rival the best on the planet. I refer to, of course, Pinot Noir but perhaps not so obviously to a relatively new winery Le Clos Jordanne. I assume the winey reference may be a bit obscure to most as they’ve never seen it on any LCBO shelf. Why? Most Le Clos Jordanne releases at the LCBO have sold out on the day of release.
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How to make your party stand out above the crowd

Soon, the sheer number of seasonal parties will be taxing all of our schedules. I would also guess that you are planning to add a party of your own. But what result do we really want from our gathering beyond a joyous time? In an ocean of holiday get-togethers you want your event to be remembered. So what is the secret to standing out? Successful hosts know that it’s all about the food, the wine and the special “wow” factor. As great food is the most important element of the triplet, why not use the food with proper wine pairings as the featured “wow” factor?
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How is your “Feinherb”?

Balance is everything in life. The prescription is a little bit of everything and not too much of any one thing. Wine is no exception. Being socially responsible and vigilant about the dangers of over indulgence — try as many different wines as you can and as often as possible. The general medically researched guideline given all normal factors is two to three glasses of wine per day for men and one to two glasses for women. Read Full Article »

New venues and vintages

Everything old is new again. Inniskillin, the granddaddy of the Ontario cottage wine industry has significantly improved its hospitality at the winery and they are extending an invitation to the world. Did I say “world”? Inniskillin is truly a global brand and an Ontario success story in which we should take pride. In addition they are thrilled to welcome back the many old and yet-to-be Ontario friends that have helped bring them to this place of prominence. Pardon the pun, but Inniskillin is clearly proud of its roots and it is now set to display them in style.
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Water and wine

Everyone in the wine business talks about it. Some argue that it is a myth. Many scientific papers have given credence to the idea while others have discredited the entire notion. Regardless, at some point during the evaluation of fine wine, tasters always end up at "terroir."
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Selfridges’ “jukebox” offers a melody of wine tasting

It is lovingly nicknamed “the jukebox.” The manager in charge, Olivier Rigolot was very gracious as he took me through the complete operation of the machine while he meticulously cleaned each part.

“The secret is lemon juice my friend,” he stated as he winked. “All other chemicals are far too harsh. And an occasional ram up the spout with a tiny Phillips screwdriver keeps everything moving.” Olivier’s pride in his machine, his unique knowledge of its maintenance and operation and his delight in the success of his bar were very apparent.
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A night to remember

It was once again up to Gretzky to close out the night on a winning note. The “game” was in Toronto, but not at the Air Canada Centre. The setting was a roaring bonfire on Olympic Island framed by the blaze of the downtown lights across the inner harbour. The water was a perfect mirror; the breeze was light and even the damp chill of the night air could not diminish the warmth of the gathering. The “game” was to win the favour of the visiting international meeting planners and secure conventions for Toronto and assisting areas. Read Full Article »