Basics of Pairing Wine with CAPS

A welcoming introduction to wine tasting through the lens of British Columbia wine. We’ll explore a range of styles – from sparkling and rosé to crisp whites and structured reds – while covering the fundamentals of how to taste, what to look for, and how different wines can fit different menus and occasions. Designed with cooks and hospitality professionals in mind, the session will offer an approachable foundation for understanding wine while showcasing the quality, diversity, and value of choosing local BC producers.

Chris Rielly of Canadian Association of Professionals Sommeliers

CAPS Mission Statement:

We are a community of sommeliers and hospitality professionals who believe the future of our craft is built on connection, education, and excellence.
Our mission is to:

Grow together by sharing knowledge and opportunities that elevate every stage of the sommelier journey.

Honour tradition while shaping the next chapter of hospitality with curiosity, creativity, and respect.

Bridge worlds by connecting sommeliers with winemakers, agents, retailers, chefs, and communities, creating spaces where collaboration thrives.

Inspire culture through events, service, and storytelling that make wine and spirits more vibrant, inclusive, and relevant.

Pursue excellence not as a title, but as a practice—raising the standard of what it means to serve, teach, and lead.