Vista18 x Iconic Wineries of BC – Wine Pairing Dinner

Description

Set against the panoramic skyline views of downtown Victoria, this intimate wine pairing dinner brings together the celebrated wines of Martin’s Lane and CheckMate alongside a four-course menu created exclusively for the evening by Chef Brett Yamashiro. Throughout the night, you will explore expressive pours ranging from vibrant Chardonnay and Pinot Noir + Riesling co-ferment to structured Merlot and elegant Riesling, each paired to highlight balance, texture, and flavour in every course. With only limited seats available, this is a rare opportunity to experience some of British Columbia’s most acclaimed wineries in an intimate rooftop setting.

Event Details:
Date: Friday, June 26th
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Vista 18 Restaurant + Lounge
Price: $205 per person All-in pricing (includes taxes and 18% service charge).

Event Menu
>>Welcome Sparkling: Mission Hill Exhilaration Brut Rose

**amuse**
POACHED WILD PRAWNS
scallions, japanese mayonnaise, yuzu pearls
>> Paired with: CHECKMATE ‘FOOL’S MATE’ CHARDONNAY
This chardonnay is a cuvée of four vineyards resulting in a unique and complex expression of this varietal. On the nose showcases aromas of lemon, stone fruit, and a hint of nuttiness, and on the palate balances elements of lemon zest, apricots, a little bit of fresh bread paired with a creamy texture.

**starter**
CONFIT PORK BELLY
sweet corn purée, apple cider gastrique, herb salad
>> Paired with: MARTIN’S LANE ‘JULIUS’ PINOT NOIR + RIESLING CO-FERMENT
This unique pour is a co-ferment of pinot noir + riesling. It is 80% pinot noir sourced via the Simes Vineyard and 20% riesling sourced via Fritzi’s Vineyard. This is a vibrant and expressive wine showcasing bright red cherry and tart cranberries balanced with earthy umami and spiced notes.

**main**
BEEF TENDERLOIN
balsamic pickled strawberries, pink peppercorn, caramelized shallot jus
>> Paired with: CHECKMATE ‘END GAME’ MERLOT
This pour showcases a firm and brooding expression of this particular varietal. On the nose aromas of dark cocoa, deep dark berries and a hint of orange zest can be noticed and on the palate it showcases dark cherries, blackberries, sage brush and dried herbs with a hint of espresso. Tannins are firm yet elegant and the finish is quite long particularly for merlot.

**dessert**
YUZU + WHITE CHOCOLATE CREMEUX
ginger tuile
>> Paired with: MARTIN’S LANE ‘SIMES VINEYARD’ RIESLING
The Simes Vineyard is the closest to Martin’s Lane winery and this expression of riesling is a great representation of the cool climate of the North Okanagan. This pour showcases bright citrus notes, elements of stone fruit and a mineral driven finish. This is an off-dry and electric yet savory expression of riesling.

Hosted by Bram Bolwijn: Guest & VIP Experience Manager – Iconic Wineries of British Columbia
Originally from the Netherlands, Bram’s journey through hospitality and wine has taken him from Bordeaux and Michelin-starred restaurants to the Okanagan Valley, where he has become a passionate ambassador for Canadian wine. Known for his engaging storytelling and deep knowledge of both old-world and new-world winemaking, Bram brings a personal and immersive approach to every guest experience by offering insight into the wines, vineyards, and craftsmanship behind each pour throughout the evening.

About the Partners & Wineries
This exclusive dinner is presented in partnership with Iconic Wineries of British Columbia, showcasing selections from Martin’s Lane Winery and CheckMate Artisanal Winery, two wineries recognized for producing some of the Okanagan Valley’s most refined and site-driven wines. Martin’s Lane is known for its expressive, small-lot Pinot Noir and Riesling, crafted with precision and a strong sense of place, while CheckMate has earned international recognition for its structured and age-worthy Chardonnay and Merlot. Together, these wineries represent a modern and elevated expression of British Columbia winemaking, rooted in meticulous vineyard practices, limited production, and exceptional attention to detail.