Montreal Ambassador Marie Pâris adds 7 new Red Stars
The Star Wine List guide to Montreal was created in 2019, by our ambassador Marie Pâris. As winter falls on the region, Marie gives us an update – and seven new Red Stars.
Thank you for the new listings. What's the latest on the Montreal wine and dining scene?
“The big news that recently stirred the Montreal restaurant scene is undoubtedly the arrival of the Michelin Guide, which has generated a lot of buzz. Michelin inspectors were in Montreal just a few months ago, touring the city’s establishments.”
Have you seen any particular wine trends emerging lately?
“Consumers are increasingly gravitating towards established appellations, while the wave of emerging producers seems to be slowing down a bit. Bordeaux, in particular, is making a strong comeback.
“On the other hand, with the rising cost of living, value for money is more important than ever, and wines from Portugal, for example, are doing well. Quebec wines continue to gain momentum and are still highly wanted.”
What does winter hold for Montreal? Do habits change?
“One noticeable trend is that customers are more likely to order one or several glasses of wine rather than a bottle, as was more common in the past. This is, of course, due to inflation and the increasingly moderate consumption of alcohol, but also to the fact that people want to taste several different wines and pairings throughout a meal.”
Do you have any particular favourites amongst your new listings?
“I’ve included in my selection a restaurant from Quebec City, Tanière3, which has been around for several years but is finally starting to get the recognition it deserves. This restaurant is exceptional both for the quality of its cuisine and its work on drink pairings, as well as its decor. It’s a full experience. Montreal has a great concentration of must-visit spots, but Quebec City is slowly starting to carve out its place on the culinary scene.”
How can a restaurant/bar impress you?
“By standing out! The restaurant industry in Quebec is strongly influenced by trends, and it’s common to find not only the same decor or the same type of cuisine but also the same style of wine list from one place to another. That’s why it’s even more interesting when a restaurant or bar has managed to find its own identity, which is clearly reflected in its wine offering.”
Do you have any pet peeves on a wine list?
“A selection that tries to impress by showcasing big, expensive bottles – which are not always good. On the contrary, I prefer wine lists that stand out by offering interesting choices in smaller, more accessible bottles, which allow for beautiful discoveries.”
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