Montreal Celebrates European Flavors: A Look Back at the SIP & SAVOR Events

On October 16, downtown Montréal hosted an exclusive press event at Osteria MKT, a historic space transformed for the occasion into an elegant, immersive tasting environment.

Seven Roero producers presented their wines to an audience of more than 30 journalists and industry professionals, guided by Karyne Duplessis-Piché, one of Québec’s most respected wine journalists. Joining her was Chef Pasquale Vari, a leading figure in Italian cuisine in Québec, who showcased the art of pairing with a selection of Italian deli meats. Together, they offered guests a sensory journey rooted in refinement, tradition, and craftsmanship.

The event also welcomed Francesca Iraldi, representing the Consorzio Tutela del Roero, and Monica Malavasi, Director of IVSI — both of whom emphasized the shared commitment to promoting two complementary European specialties: the mineral elegance and aromatic complexity of Roero DOCG wines, and the cultural heritage of Italian deli meats, shaped by centuries of artisanal expertise.

From October 18 to 20, SIP & SAVOR took center stage at Raspipav, one of Québec’s most anticipated wine fairs, attracting thousands of visitors each year. At Marché Bonsecours, in a lively international atmosphere, Roero producers and IVSI engaged with a wide and curious audience: attendees explored the defining features of Roero DOCG wines and sampled Italian deli meats, while numerous industry professionals participated in B2B meetings that strengthened commercial ties between Québec and Europe.

By participating in such a major international event, the project positioned itself within a broader European context, illustrating how Roero wines and Italian deli meats represent an iconic expression of Italy’s extraordinary food-and-wine landscape.

On October 19, again at Marché Bonsecours, Karyne Duplessis-Piché led an exclusive consumer masterclass. Her expertise guided participants through the characteristics of Roero DOCG wines — Roero Arneis, a fresh, mineral white with remarkable aromatic elegance, and Roero Rosso, a Nebbiolo renowned for its finesse and structure.

Chef Pasquale Vari enriched the experience with an exceptional selection of Italian deli meats — from Mortadella Bologna IGP to Prosciutto di San Daniele PDO, from Lardo di Colonnata IGP to Finocchiona IGP — demonstrating how traditional European pairings can be interpreted in modern, creative ways without losing authenticity.

The masterclass was both educational and cultural: through guided tastings and stories of the region, participants discovered the deep links between history, production methods, and the core values that define European excellence.

The Montréal events highlight the strength of SIP & SAVOR as a platform for cultural as much as gastronomic promotion. The goal is not merely to showcase outstanding products, but to provide Canadian audiences with a deeper understanding of their origins, traditions, and production philosophies — elements that make them true symbols of European and Italian quality.

Québec, a dynamic and receptive market, offers fertile ground for building long-lasting connections with producers, professionals, and consumers. In this sense, the collaboration between the Roero Producers’ Consortium and IVSI stands as a model of partnership capable of conveying — through wine and deli meats — a shared cultural heritage that bridges Europe and Canada.