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Toronto, ON — Grapes for Humanity is pleased to announce its 2026 Fine Wine Auction, taking place April 16 to 22, 2026, featuring an extraordinary offering of more than 3500 bottles of wine and spirits. The auction will raise funds in support of climate action alongside the organization’s core pillars of health, education, and the environment.

This year’s auction includes 32 dream lots and an exceptional lineup of rare bottles and unforgettable experiences, positioning the sale as one of the organization’s most exciting and ambitious to date. With wine donations having grown by more than 200%, the 2026 auction reflects the extraordinary generosity of donors, collectors, and partners who continue to rally behind Grapes for Humanity’s mission.

Dream lots are global passports to VIP adventures at some of the world’s finest wineries. Wine sales are available for pick up in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

From legendary Bordeaux and Bourgogne to singular collector experiences tied to music, culture, and world-renowned estates, the 2026 auction offers remarkable breadth and prestige. It also includes the distinctive Cuvée from the Heart wines, a unique collaboration of Ontario winemakers whose community blends have become one of the most meaningful and original expressions of the auction’s spirit.

Among the marquee offerings is a dinner for six with music icons Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson at Toronto’s legendary Barberian’s Steakhouse, featuring fine Bourgogne wines selected from Geddy Lee’s personal cellar. Another standout dream lot is a rare Epiphone Alex Lifeson Les Paul in Crimson Burst, personally signed by Alex Lifeson and Geddy Lee, creating an exceptional opportunity for collectors of music memorabilia and devoted Rush fans alike.

The auction also offers immersive wine travel experiences that money alone can’t secure. These include a private vineyard masterclass, cellar tasting, and family lunch for four at Domaine Dujac in Morey-Saint-Denis, an invitation-only vertical tasting at Dominus Estate in Napa Valley, an elegant three-day Taylor’s Port journey through Porto and the Douro Valley for two, and a two-day private immersion at Familia Torres in Spain’s Penedès and Priorat regions, complete with tastings, dining, accommodation, and a signed magnum of Mas La Plana 2015.

For serious collectors, the wine catalogue is equally compelling. Highlights include Château Latour 1982 and Château Mouton Rothschild 1982, both awarded 100 points by Robert Parker, as well as Château Mouton Rothschild 2016 and Château Cheval Blanc 2016, each representing benchmark expressions from Bordeaux. The auction also features Louis Jadot Montrachet Grand Cru 2019, Salon Le Mesnil Blanc de Blancs Cuvée S Brut 1990, Rayas Châteauneuf-du-Pape Réserve 2011, and a remarkable 6L bottle of Château d’Yquem 1989. Further highlights include a parcel of twelve half-bottles of Château d’Yquem 2005, Opus One 2018, and Next of Kyn No. 7 Cumulus Vineyard 2013 in magnum format.

Adding to the appeal for bidders, the Grapes for Humanity auction is a hammer-price-only auction, with no buyer’s premium and no tax. That means the winning bid is the final price paid, offering collectors a rare opportunity to acquire exceptional wines and experiences with complete pricing transparency.

“Each year, this auction tells a story of generosity through extraordinary bottles and experiences,” said Tony Aspler, founder of Grapes for Humanity. “What makes Grapes for Humanity special is that every lot, whether it is a First Growth from a legendary vintage or an unforgettable dinner shared around a table, contributes to something larger than itself.”

Grapes for Humanity has earned a respected place in Canada’s charitable and wine communities by bringing together collectors, donors, and supporters who believe that fine wine can be a force for good. The annual auction continues to attract attention not only for the calibre of its offerings but also for the meaningful impact created through the funds raised.

The 2026 Fine Wine Auction opens on April 16, 2026, and closes on April 22, 2026.

The auction can be found at rhumanity.com/fine-wine-auction" />www.grapesforhumanity.com/fine-wine-auction</a>.</p>"

 
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TORONTO, April 14, 2026 /CNW/ - Spring 2026 – Toronto's waterfront is getting a tropical escape once again as Palapa Tours returns for its second season on the harbour, bringing back its signature tiki bar boat experience for summer 2026.

A Tropical Escape on Toronto Harbour

Departing from HTO Park (275 Queens Quay West), Palapa Tours offers 90-minute cruises through Toronto's inner harbour and around the Toronto Islands aboard its custom-built tiki bar boats.

Guests can book individual tickets or reserve a private charter for up to 12 people per boat. The experience blends music, cocktails and skyline views into a social, open-air setting, offering a unique way to experience the city from the water.

Building on a Strong First Season

Following a successful debut season with consistently sold-out sailings, Palapa Tours is building on its momentum for 2026 while staying true to its laid-back, tropical atmosphere.

New for 2026: Enhanced Onboard Experience

New for 2026, all vessels are equipped with satellite-powered internet through Starlink, allowing guests to stay connected on the water and share their experience in real time.

Select sailings will also feature themed experiences tied to major cultural and sporting moments, including hockey and World Cup football.

"Last season, we saw an incredible response from both locals and tourists looking for something social, fun and different to do on the waterfront," said Alex, Co-Owner of Palapa Tours Toronto.

"For our second season, we focused on enhancing the experience while keeping what people loved most. It's still about being on the water with your friends, a drink in hand, and the Toronto skyline around you."

Designed for Celebrations and Group Experiences

Each cruise is operated by a licensed captain and includes an onboard bartender serving a curated selection of beer, cocktails and non-alcoholic options.

Palapa Tours operates 7-days a week throughout the summer season, offering both individual ticketed experiences and private charters for birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, corporate outings and group celebrations.

With Toronto's waterfront continuing to evolve, Palapa Tours is positioning itself as a staple summer experience on the harbour.

Palapa Tours also offers brand partnership opportunities for beverage and lifestyle companies seeking high-impact, experiential exposure along Toronto's bustling harbourfront.

The 2026 season launches in May, with bookings now open.

For more information or to reserve a cruise, visit: https://torontopalapa.tours

 
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Vancouver, B.C., April 9, 2026 — As the global bar community arrives in the city for North America’s 50 Best Bars this month,  and atis set to host a series of exclusive guest shifts. From April 21 to 23, 2026, creative beverage director Grant Sceney has invited award-winning bartenders from Seoul, New York, Toronto, Mexico and the Caribbean to step behind the bars and introduce their talents to Vancouver. 



“It’s incredibly special to not only host North America’s 50 Best Bars in Vancouver for a second year running but also have the opportunity to host some of the world’s most exciting cocktail bars and bartenders at Fairmont Pacific Rim,” says Sceney. “These collaborations are about more than just drinks. Welcoming the international bar community to our city means we can further celebrate creativity and give our guests a chance to experience the energy of the global bar community right here in Vancouver.” 

The programming begins on April 21 at The Lobby Lounge & RawBar, where the team will host Toronto standouts and for an evening highlighting Canada’s dynamic cocktail culture. 

Later that evening, Sceney and the Botanist team will be joined by one of Asia’s most celebrated bars: Seoul’s Zest, currently ranked No. 2 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list and No. 16 on World’s 50 Best Bars list — bringing their “sustainable fine drinking” ethos to Botanist Bar with three cocktails. Guests will also have a chance to enjoy some exclusive bar bites by executive chef Hector Laguna. 

On April 22, one of New York City’s most talked-about cocktail destinations,  — created by renowned chef Daniel Humm in collaboration with artist Francesco Clemente, and currently No. 11 on the North America’s 50 Best Bars list — will make a special appearance ahead of the awards ceremony.

Meanwhile, The Lobby Lounge & RawBar will host the “The Carribean Cocktail Tour,” an immersive evening featuring three of the regions most iconic bars: Library by the Sea, Bon Vivants and La Factoria. Guests can expect vibrant, destination-inspired cocktails that capture the spirit and flavour of the Caribbean to compliment The Lobby Lounge’s internationally inspired menu. 

To close out the celebrations, Botanist will welcome two acclaimed Mexico destinations for a special six-course tasting menu and cocktail pairing experience on April 23 — (No. 61 on North America’s 50 Best Bars list) and Mecenas of Guadalajara.

COLLABORATION SCHEDULE 

April 21, 2026 

The Lobby Lounge & RawBar 
3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
 
Library Bar and Mother from Toronto
James Grant and Massimo Zitti

Botanist 
7:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
 
Zest from Seoul, South Korea 
(first appearance in Vancouver) 
Do Hyung “Demie” Kim & Yongjin “Noah” Kwon

April 22, 2026 

Botanist
3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
 
 from New York City 
Jay Reingold and Wilmer Reyes

The Lobby Lounge & RawBar
3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
 
Library by the Sea, Bon Vivants and La Factoria from the Caribbean  
“The Caribbean Cocktail Tour” 

April 23, 2026 

Botanist
6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
 
ARCA from Tulum and Mecenas from Guadalajara
Six-course tasting menu by ARCA’s chef-owner José Luis Hinostroza and Botanist’s executive chef Hector Laguna; cocktail pairings by Mecenas and ARCA.
Reservations can be made online
 

Each bar collaboration event is available on a first come, first serve basis. In addition to these collaborations, Fairmont Pacific Rim is also hosting industry events throughout the week. 

“We are proud to welcome members of the international bar community to Fairmont Pacific Rim during this important moment for the industry,” says Jens Moesker, regional vice president and general manager, Fairmont Pacific Rim. “These special events truly reflect our ongoing commitment to exceptional hospitality and to creating memorable experiences that connect our guests with leading talent from around the world.” 

Botanist Bar is currently No. 26 on North America’s 50 Best Bars list. For more information, please visit. 

 
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TORONTO, April 9, 2026 /CNW/ - ABSOLUT® Vodka and TABASCO® are firing up the spirits scene in Canada with the launch of a new spicy vodka, ABSOLUT® TABASCO™. Following a successful launch in the US, UK, and over 50 global markets, this bold innovation is now available across Canada, redefining flavour and delivering the heat that spirit drinkers crave.

Crafted by fusing ABSOLUT Vodka with a unique and completely natural essence created from the fermented, aged red pepper mash used to make TABASCO® Sauce - ABSOLUT® TABASCO™ delivers the distinctive heat and aroma of the world's most famous pepper sauce in the world's leading premium vodkas.

"At ABSOLUT®, we've always embraced bold, unexpected ideas, and this collaboration is no exception," said Maura Cowan, VP of Marketing, Corby Spirit and Wine Limited. "Canadians are looking to feel the heat, and what better way to deliver it than by blending our premium smooth vodka with one of the world's most iconic hot sauces."

The new TABASCO® Sauce-flavoured vodka comes amid strong, growing demand for hotter flavours. Consumers are craving heat now more than ever, with sales of spicy vodka forecasted to increase 27 per cent by 2029. Whether it's an iconic Caesar with extra kick or a Spicy Lemonade, ABSOLUT® TABASCO™ is here for the moment - a smooth-tasting vodka with a heat that builds to leave a warm feeling on the lips with every sip.

"We are thrilled to bring the unique flavour of TABASCO® Sauce to ABSOLUT®'s smooth premium vodka. We share a rich heritage and a commitment to quality - and this new partnership is a testament to both. It's the perfect match. ABSOLUT® TABASCO™ is the purest form of heat ever bottled for adventurous flavour lovers everywhere," said Kate Neuhaus, Director of Global Marketing Communications at McIlhenny Company.

Founded in 1868 on Avery Island, Louisiana, where it is still produced today, TABASCO® Sauce uses just three ingredients: handpicked red peppers, salt and vinegar. Once mashed together, the red pepper mix is aged and fermented in reclaimed oak barrels for up to three years, creating the sauce's subtle, unique flavour.

ABSOLUT® Vodka is also made using just three natural ingredients - pristine water sourced from a local deep well, a proprietary strain of yeast and winter wheat grown on nearby farms. This premium vodka is only distilled in the small town of Åhus in Southern Sweden, using the same continuous distillation process introduced by its Swedish founder, L.O. Smith, in the 1870s.

The brands' rich heritages come together through the design of the ABSOLUT® TABASCO™ bottle. It seamlessly blends their iconic bottles into one; the colours and diamond label shout TABASCO® Sauce, but the apothecary-inspired shape is unmistakably ABSOLUT® Vodka.

To kick off the launch, ABSOLUT® and TABASCO® reignited brunch with a kick, transforming one of Toronto's newest hotspots--The Frederick--into a high-energy brunch party celebrating the Canadian debut. Guests were among the first to sample the new spicy vodka, featured in a lineup of bold cocktails and expertly paired dishes that showcased the perfect balance of the brands' iconic flavours.

ABSOLUT® TABASCO™ is now available at bars, restaurants and retailers across Canada. Visit to learn more and follow the heat.

 

 
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NEW ORLEANS, LA (April 7, 2026)—  (TOTCF) is proud to announce the Canada Regional Top 10 Honorees for the 20th annual . Since its inception in 2007, the Spirited Awards has become one of the world’s highest-regarded honors in the drinks industry, celebrating outstanding individuals, establishments, products, media, and leaders who continue to inspire the global cocktail community.

Tales of the Cocktail Foundation will celebrate the Spirited Awards on July 23rd during the Tales of the Cocktail (TOTC) conference, taking place in New Orleans from July 19-24, 2026. Food & Wine is the Spirited Awards Official Media Partner.

“The Spirited Awards are a time to celebrate the people and places that make our hospitality industry shine and thrive. Each honoree embodies the passion, ingenuity, and commitment that define our vibrant global bar community,” said Kaitlyn Stewart, Spirited Awards Canada Co-Chair. 

Divided into geographical regions - Asia Pacific (APAC), Canada, Europe, Latin America & Caribbean (LATAM&C), Middle East & Africa (MEA), U.S. Central, U.S. East, and U.S. West - the Regional Top 10 Honorees represent the best in the industry, leaving a lasting impact on their local cocktail communities and beyond. To toast the 2026 Honorees, the Foundation is proud to recognize this inspiring group and announce the Spirited Awards Regional Top 10 Honorees. 

2026 Spirited Awards® Canada Regional Top 10 Honorees (in alphabetical order):

Canada Establishments:

Best International Bar Team* presented by William Grant & Sons

  • Atwater Cocktail Club — Montreal, QC, Canada
  • Bar Pompette — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Belle Isle — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Botanist at the Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel — Vancouver, BC, Canada
  • Civil Liberties — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Civil Works — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Humboldt Bar at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites — Victoria, BC, Canada
  • Library Bar at the Fairmont Royal York — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • The Cloakroom Bar — Montreal, QC, Canada
  • The Coldroom — Montreal, QC, Canada
  • The Keefer Bar — Vancouver, BC, Canada
    *11 Honorees due to a tie

Best International Cocktail Bar presented by Pernod Ricard

  • Bar Pompette — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Citrus & Cane — Victoria, BC, Canada
  • Civil Liberties — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Civil Works — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Cry Baby Gallery — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Dear Friend — Dartmouth, NS, Canada
  • Hoof Cocktail Bar — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Mother Cocktail Bar — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • The Cloakroom Bar — Montreal, QC, Canada
  • The Keefer Bar — Vancouver, BC, Canada

Best International Hotel Bar

  • Bar 1608 at the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac — Quebec City, QC, Canada
  • Botanist at the Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel — Vancouver, BC, Canada
  • Clockwork Champagne & Cocktails at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Evangeline at the Ace Hotel — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • H Tasting Lounge at The Westin Bayshore — Vancouver, BC, Canada
  • Humboldt Bar at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites — Victoria, BC, Canada
  • Library Bar at the Fairmont Royal York — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Marcus Lounge and Bar at Four Seasons Hotel Montreal — Montreal, QC, Canada
  • Prophecy Bar at Rosewood Hotel Georgia — Vancouver, BC, Canada
  • the bar at Alder at Ace Hotel Toronto — Toronto, ON, Canada

Best International Restaurant Bar

  • Bar Jjacques — Québec City, QC, Canada
  • Bar Raval — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Chupito — Vancouver, BC, Canada
  • Highwayman Restaurant & Bar — Halifax, NS, Canada
  • Le Swan — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Mount Pleasant Vintage & Provisions — Vancouver, BC, Canada
  • Published on Main — Vancouver, BC, Canada
  • Quetzal — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Simpl Things — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Wind Cries Mary — Victoria, BC, Canada

Best New International Cocktail Bar

  • Bar Numero — Montreal, QC, Canada
  • Chez Celine — Vancouver, BC, Canada
  • Ellipsis — Vancouver, BC, Canada
  • June — Vancouver, BC, Canada
  • La Cantina Concha — Montreal, QC, Canada
  • Next of Kin — Edmonton, AB, Canada
  • Nomo Nomo — Vancouver, BC, Canada
  • Restaurant Limousine — Saint-Lambert, QC, Canada
  • The Shameful Tiki Room — Toronto, ON, Canada
  • Uh Bar — Toronto, ON, Canada

2026 Spirited Awards Committee

The Spirited Awards® Committee comprises revered bartenders, bar owners, educators, and writers who are entrusted with evaluating nominees based on structured criteria. The experienced and diverse committee of judges brings years of expertise and knowledge of industry developments locally, nationally, and internationally. The Spirited Awards® nominations are not based on popular vote, and all nominations are evaluated by their respective judging committees, ensuring each vote carries equal weight in the evaluation process.

Honorees were selected by a panel of over 250 industry experts, led by the following Chair and Co-Chairs representing distinct regions: 

International Chair & U.S. Chair:

  • Tiffanie Barriere
  • Ryan Chetiyawardana

Asia Pacific Co-Chairs:

  • Philip Bischoff
  • Alice Newport
  • Shelley Tai
  • Stephanie Wijono

Canada Co-Chairs:

  • Kaitlyn Stewart
  • Julia Wolkowski

Europe Co-Chairs:

  • Camille Vidal
  • Kaitlin Wilkes

Latin America & Caribbean Co-Chairs:

  • Roberto Berdecia
  • Claudia Cabrera

Middle East & Africa Co-Chairs:

  • Richie Barrow
  • Mallory Lee
  • Lara Rawa

U.S. Central Co-Chairs:

  • Amanda Carto
  • Erika Flowers

U.S. East Co-Chairs:

  • Vance Henderson
  • Jaymee Mandeville

U.S. West Co-Chairs:

  • Nick Amano Dolan
  • Mary Allison Wright

Writing & Media Co-Chairs:

  • Alia Akkam
  • Erick Castro

Books Chair:

  • Anna Sulan Masing

Timeless Co-Chairs:

  • François Monti
  • Rebecca Sturt

To learn more about the Spirited Awards Committee and awards criteria, please visit the  page.

 

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