A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of attending Sip & Savor, a gourmet evening in Montreal that celebrated the excellence of Italian deli meats and wines from the Roero region. Hosted as part of the Sip and Savor: Pairing European Wines and Deli Meats campaign, the event invited us to slow down and discover the authentic taste of Europe through craftsmanship, storytelling, and flavor.

Organized by the Istituto Valorizzazione Salumi Italiani (IVSI) and the Consorzio Tutela Roero, the evening was led by Karyne Duplessis-Piché, wine journalist and columnist at La Presse, and Pasquale Vari, chef and professor of Italian cuisine at the ITHQ. Together, they guided us through a series of pairings that showcased how balance, texture, and simplicity can turn food into an experience.

We began the evening with Tibaldi Roero Arneis, produced by sisters Monica and Daniela Tibaldi, and the Roero Arneis Cecu d'La Biunda. Both wines revealed bright notes of apple and herbs, paired beautifully with lardo and prosciutto for a combination that felt both fresh and delicate.

As the tasting continued, we explored the diversity of Italian regions and traditions. Each wine carried its own story, and every charcuterie reflected a distinct heritage. My favorite pairing of the night was the Casetta Roero Riserva (100% Nebbiolo) with mortadella — a match of richness and elegance that perfectly captured the Italian philosophy of finding beauty in simplicity.

More than a tasting, Sip & Savor was a cultural experience. Every conversation and every plate reminded us that food connects people. It bridges generations, regions, and traditions through shared moments around the table.

The Montreal event was part of a month-long journey across Canada, where Sip & Savor introduced Canadians to the elegance and authenticity of European deli meats and wines from the Roero DOCG region.

Here’s what took place in October:

• October 18–20 – Public and trade tastings at RASPIPAV Montréal (Marché Bonsecours)
• October 21 – Press and masterclass event in Toronto at Vantage Venues
• October 25–27 – RASPIPAV Québec City (Manège militaire Voltigeurs de Québec)

Throughout these events, guests had the chance to discover Roero Arneis DOCG, a fresh, mineral-driven white, and Roero Rosso DOCG, an elegant red made from Nebbiolo, alongside some of Italy’s most iconic salumi such as prosciutto, bresaola, and mortadella.

Each pairing celebrated not only flavor but also craftsmanship. Behind every bottle and every slice lay a story of land, heritage, and passion — one that continues to evolve while staying deeply rooted in tradition.

To learn more about the campaign, visit www.sipsavor.eu.

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Bon appétit!