Has Ontario Cheese Got What It Takes? Tutored Tasting (Encore)
Saturday 2:30 PM
Vanessa Simmons
A “fanatical” devotee of artisan craft, Vanessa Simmons is a renowned Cheese Sommelier who has spent her career bridging the gap between cheesemakers and consumers. Celebrated for her engaging “creative social experiences,” Vanessa transforms sensory tastings into deep, delicious celebrations of Canadian excellence.
$75.00 (+ HST & fees)
*Separate General Admission ticket required for festival entry. Taxes & service fees added at checkout.
Can Ontario’s passionate artisan producers stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the legendary cheese regions of Europe? Join renowned Cheese Sommelier Vanessa Simmons for an exhilarating, fast-paced tutored tasting that puts Ontario craftsmanship to the ultimate test.
What to Expect in This Masterclass
- The Terroir of Ontario: Discover how local pasture, seasonal milk chemistry, and heritage methods shape distinctly regional flavor profiles.
- Curated Cheese Flight: A guided exploration of bloomy rinds, aged cheddars, washed-rind powerhouses, and wild blues sourced from across the province.
- Sensory Evaluation Techniques: Learn how international judges evaluate texture, paste condition, aroma complexity, and balance.
- Pairing Nuances: Practical tips on elevating cheese boards with local preserves, artisan honey, and beverage matches.
Whether you are a casual curd lover or a dedicated fromophile, Vanessa’s trademark storytelling and deep industry knowledge make this an unforgettable festival highlight.
Expertise, Education, and Excellence
Vanessa Simmons has spent countless hours on the “front lines” of the cheese world, working alongside both cheesemongers and cheesemakers. She specializes in creating “creative social experiences”—events where consumers discover fine wine, craft beer, and artisan cheese through the lens of a sommelier.
Vanessa’s formal training is extensive, including Level 2 certification from the Toronto Cheese Education Guild and a Basic Cuisine Certificate from the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Arts Institute. Her tasting seminars are famous for their depth and storytelling, leading the Toronto Star to describe her as “openly fanatical about artisan cheese.”
A familiar voice in Canadian media, Vanessa has appeared on CBC Radio, CTV Morning Live, and Rogers TV. She has served as a keynote presenter at numerous festivals and as a distinguished judge at Sélection Caseus—Le Concours des Fromages Fins du Québec.
$75.00 (+ HST & fees)
*Separate General Admission ticket required for festival entry. Taxes & service fees added at checkout.