Posts Written OnDecember 04, 2009

Under Pressure: Victorianbourg Estate Gets Ready for Opening Day

By Julia Burke, Niagara Escarpment Correspondent Photo courtesy of Victorianbourg Estate Dan Hogue is just a tad stressed out when I call asking when I can sample his wines. “Can we do it next week?” he asks breathlessly, his cordial, down-to-earth voice as friendly as ever as he reminds me that “this week is a little… crazy.” I can’t say I blame him. He has a brand-new winery to open, and he’s planning on participating in the Niagara Wine Trail Holiday event – which is tomorrow. Last week, when I stopped by his property in Wilson, NY, which overlooks Lake…

Brewery Ommegang Rare Vos

By Kevin Burns, Beer Columnist Brewery Ommegang in Cooperstown, NY has established itself as one of the premier Belgian-style beer companies in America. Its ales are enjoyed across the country, and one of my favorite beers from Ommergang is their Belgian-style Amber ale, Rare Vos.    Rare Vos poured a clear honey color with a thumb-width, frothy white head. The nose is interesting with fruity esters that result in a candy-like aroma, with yeast and spices mixed in. The body is smooth with lots of malt and some sugar with more spices, orange notes, and light hops underneath. The finish is not…