An absolute delight for the senses, the Grand Cru Culinary Wine Festival presented by ECN Capital — a glitzy, highbrow event that raises money for medical research and innovation — is once again taking place in Toronto.
A fundraising event disguised as a marquee soiree, the festival brings together the finest wines, gourmet cuisine as well as the brightest minds in medical research under one roof to support programs throughout University Health Network. This year, the 18th Grand Cru will take place from Oct. 27 to Oct. 29.
This year, the wine festival — which is one of the largest of its kind in the world — will feature wines from more than 85 vintners from around the world, 20 private gourmet dinners throughout the city prepared by some of Toronto's most revered chefs and participation from UHN clinicians and scientists who are advancing ground-breaking medical research and innovations.
Some of the restaurants participating in the wine festival include Toronto spots Sotto Sotto, Paese Ristorante and Sash, as well as international joints like La Maison Troisgros from France and Oceans and Daniel from the United States.
Founded in 2005 by Todd Halpern, UHN Board of Trustees member and chairman of Halpern Enterprises, Grand Cru has raised more than $68 million to date in support of UHN programs.
The attendees of this fundraiser are the who's who of Toronto's corporate and philanthropic elite with acclaimed guests from Canada and the United States. The influential group of individuals comes together to enjoy fine dining and fuel its collective passion for philanthropy.
This year's event will be divided into two dates. Oct. 27 will see a tasting of Halpern's portfolio and the rand Cru Culinary Wine Festival presented by ECN Capital Live Auction. The auction will see some truly spectacular items undergo a bidding war. The marquee prize will be an Aston Martin DBX. Other items include a vintage 1939 Dodge pickup, a whole suite of Miele's cooking appliances, a beautiful Chanel watch, iconic and revered artwork and a slew of wine bottles.
Oct. 29 will see the patrons experience an exclusive and specifically-curated wine and dine affair, complete with the finest of wines poured and a gourmet spread served.
For more information about the rand Cru Culinary Wine Festival presented by ECN Capital, including a complete list of chefs and scientists involved, visit its website.
For more information on the UHN Foundation and ways to donate, click here.
