Bars & Clubs

  • LCBO Strike 2024

    The LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario)

    Initiated its First-ever Strike

     

    On July 5, 2024, following unsuccessful negotiations between the LCBO management and the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU). Around 9,000 workers have walked off the job due to disputes primarily concerning job security, wages, and the potential effects of the provincial government’s plans to expand alcohol sales to more convenience and grocery stores.

    Key Issues and Impacts:

    1. Store Closures: All LCBO retail stores will be closed for the initial two weeks of the strike. If the strike persists beyond July 19, a limited number of stores will reopen on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays with reduced hours.

    2. Online and Wholesale Services: The LCBO’s online platform and app will continue to operate, albeit with some limitations. Wholesale supply chains to bars, restaurants, and grocery stores will also remain functional, ensuring these establishments can still procure liquor.

    3. Union’s Concerns: OPSEU is focused on job security, fearing that the government’s move to liberalize alcohol sales could result in significant job losses. They are also advocating for better wages and working conditions. The union has emphasized that the strike is more about protecting jobs than just negotiating salary increases.

    4. LCBO’s Offer: The latest proposal from the LCBO included a seven percent pay increase over three years, converting 400 casual positions to full-time, and extending benefits to more casual employees. Despite these concessions, the union remains concerned about the broader implications of government policies on job security.

    5. Government Position: The Ontario government, led by Premier Doug Ford, remains committed to its plan to expand alcohol sales to more retail outlets, arguing that this will provide greater convenience and choice for consumers. The government has expressed disappointment over the breakdown in negotiations and has called for the union to return to the bargaining table.

    The ongoing strike underscores the tension between labor unions seeking to protect employment and benefits for their members and government policies aimed at increasing consumer access to alcohol through expanded retail opportunities.

    Stay tuned for more updates 🙏

  • LCBO July 5th Strike 2024

    LCBO STRIKE

    CHACHA, the WORLDS Premium Canadian VODKA. We can provide and service YOU during this time.

    The Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) workers are preparing for a potential strike on July 5, 2024, as contract negotiations with the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) have stalled. The union, which represents about 10,000 employees, has been in a legal strike position since 12:01 a.m. on that date. Key issues in the negotiations include wage increases, the prevalence of part-time roles, and concerns about the Ford government’s plans to allow convenience stores to sell alcohol, which the union fears will reduce LCBO profits and lead to job losses.

    In anticipation of the strike, the LCBO has extended store hours from June 27 to July 4, opening from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., to allow customers to stock up. However, stores will remain closed on Canada Day. The LCBO has also indicated that it has contingency plans to ensure continued customer service, although details on how many stores will remain open and whether deliveries to bars and restaurants will continue have not been specified. LCBO likely will extend hours ahead of the union strike.

    More details from Globalnews.ca.

    FROM ORHMA

    JULY 4, 2024

    ”Dear Industry Colleagues,

    As we prepare for a potential LCBO strike starting July 5, it’s crucial to stay informed and ready for any impacts on operations. ORHMA continues to communicate with LCBO for updates and will provide timely information. The LCBO is actively developing contingency plans to maintain services for licensed hospitality operations across Ontario.

    Preparation Steps:

    Online Platform: Register on wholesale.lcbo.com for orders during a strike. These orders would be delivered to establishments, free of charge. The same day pick up option will not be available during the strike.

    If you have questions about the process or regarding your account set-up, you can email licensee@lcbo.com. Please provide your Liquor Sales License Number and company name in the subject line of the email.

    Inventory: Consider stocking up to mitigate supply chain disruptions.

    During a Strike:

    Ordering: Use the online platform; minimum case requirements apply. Product availability will be limited and LCBO has planned to increase their inventory based on customer preferences.

    Retail Closures: LCBO stores will close for 14 days post-strike; tailored guidance will be provided.
    Alternative Sources:

    It’s important to know that restaurants can purchase their wine directly from many Ontario wineries, some types of spirits from Ontario’s independent distilling companies, and beer from The Beer Store or directly from independent breweries.

    Reopening Strategy:

    On July 19th, 30 LCBO locations will reopen for in-store shopping and will operate 3 days a week (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) with limited hours in effect. Licensees can shop in-store. No product capacities will apply when you identify at checkout and receive your discount.

    For latest updates visit LCBO’s website. Together, we’ll navigate this period to uphold industry standards.”

  • HAPPY CANADA DAY! Celebration VODKA Cocktail Ideas 🎉

    CANADA DAY VODKA COTAIL IDEAS

    HAPPY CANDA DAY to YOU all from CHACHA! We hope you have a great weekend and enjoy creating new memories with your friends and family. Awesomely enough, CANADA DAY is Monday so we get a long weekend, woooooo!

    Here’s some ideas a for you to consider this weekend:

    1. **Maple Vodka Lemonade**:
    – **Ingredients**: Vodka, lemonade, maple syrup, fresh lemon slices, mint leaves.
    – **Instructions**: Mix vodka and lemonade in a glass filled with ice. Add a splash of maple syrup and stir. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and mint leaves.

    2. **Canadian Caesar**:
    – **Ingredients**: Vodka, Clamato juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, celery salt, lime wedge, celery stalk, pickles or olives for garnish.
    – **Instructions**: Rim a glass with lime and dip in celery salt. Fill the glass with ice, add vodka, Clamato juice, a few dashes of hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and garnish with a celery stalk, lime wedge, and pickles or olives.

    3. **Maple Berry Vodka Smash**:
    – **Ingredients**: Vodka, fresh mixed berries (raspberries, blueberries, strawberries), maple syrup, lemon juice, soda water.
    – **Instructions**: Muddle berries in a glass. Add vodka, lemon juice, and a splash of maple syrup. Fill with ice and top with soda water. Stir and garnish with extra berries.

    4. **Maple Old Fashioned**:
    – **Ingredients**: Vodka, maple syrup, bitters, orange peel.
    – **Instructions**: In a glass, combine vodka, a dash of bitters, and a teaspoon of maple syrup. Add ice and stir. Garnish with an orange peel.

    5. **Cranberry Maple Vodka Spritz**:
    – **Ingredients**: Vodka, cranberry juice, soda water, maple syrup, lime wedge, fresh cranberries for garnish.
    – **Instructions**: Fill a glass with ice, add vodka and cranberry juice. Top with soda water and a splash of maple syrup. Stir well and garnish with a lime wedge and fresh cranberries.

    These cocktails are perfect for adding a Canadian flair to your Canada Day celebrations!

    HAPPY CANADA DAY & CHACHA EVERYONE! 

  • your NEW go-to VODKA Tasting Guide

    VODKA TASTING GUIDE FOR PROFESSIONALS

    Creating a vodka tasting guide involves understanding the nuances of vodka, from its aroma and flavour profiles to the texture and finish.

    Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to taste vodka like a connoisseur:

    ### 1. **Choose Your Vodkas**
    – **Variety**: Select a range of vodkas to compare, including different brands, countries of origin, and ingredients (grain, potato, etc.).
    – **Temperature**: Vodka can be tasted at room temperature to better perceive its flavors and aromas, although chilled is also common.

    ### 2. **Prepare Your Tasting Environment**
    – **Glassware**: Use a clear, tulip-shaped glass to concentrate the aromas. A standard shot glass is not ideal for tasting.
    – **Setting**: Ensure the environment is free from strong odors or distractions that could interfere with your sensory evaluation.

    ### 3. **Examine the Appearance**
    – **Clarity**: Vodka should be clear without any cloudiness or particles.
    – **Viscosity**: Swirl the glass gently to observe the vodka’s legs or tears, giving clues about its texture and alcohol content.

    ### 4. **Smell**
    – **First Sniff**: Take a gentle sniff to get an initial impression. Vodka should have a clean scent without harsh alcohol on the nose.
    – **Identify Aromas**: Look for subtle hints of the ingredients used, such as grain, potato, or even fruity or floral notes in flavored vodkas.

    ### 5. **Taste**
    – **Sip**: Take a small sip and let it coat your mouth. Vodka at room temperature will reveal more flavors.
    – **Flavor Profile**: Pay attention to the immediate flavors on the palate. Good vodka should taste smooth, with a balanced sweetness or bitterness, depending on its base.
    – **Mouthfeel**: Notice the texture—is it velvety, oily, or perhaps watery?

    ### 6. **Finish**
    – **Aftertaste**: The finish should be clean and pleasant. High-quality vodka will leave a gentle warmth rather than a harsh burn.
    – **Length**: Note how long the flavors linger. A longer, smoother finish is often a sign of a well-crafted vodka.

    ### 7. **Compare and Contrast**
    – **Notes**: Keep notes on each vodka’s profile, including appearance, aroma, taste, and finish.
    – **Preferences**: Discuss and compare your impressions with others if you’re tasting in a group. This can help identify personal preferences and discover the diversity among vodkas.

    ### 8. **Cleanse Your Palate**
    – Between tastings, cleanse your palate with water or a neutral food like bread to ensure each vodka is tasted on a fresh basis.

    ### 9. **Responsible Tasting**
    – Remember, the goal is to appreciate the experience and ENJOY with CHACHA! 🙂

  • VODKA Ice Bars

    The ICE BAR Experience

    Ice bars are unique establishments where the entire interior, including the walls, bar, seating, and sometimes even the glasses, are made entirely of ice. These bars provide a chilly and immersive experience for patrons, often with a theme or artistic design.

    In an ice bar, the temperature is typically kept well below freezing, usually around -5 to -10 degrees Celsius (23 to 14 degrees Fahrenheit), to maintain the ice structures. Visitors are usually provided with thermal clothing, such as jackets and gloves, to keep warm during their visit.

    Ice bars offer a selection of drinks, often including specialty cocktails, served in ice glasses. The use of ice glasses adds to the novelty and uniqueness of the experience. Some ice bars also feature ice sculptures, ice furniture, or other frozen artworks, creating a visually stunning ambiance.

    Ice bars can be found in various cities around the world, particularly in colder regions or popular tourist destinations. These establishments are often temporary in nature, open for a specific season or period. Some ice bars are permanent attractions in certain locations.

    If you’re bar, it’s advisable to check local event listings, tourist information websites, or contact the specific city or venue you plan to visit.

    VODKA ICE BARS

    Vodka ice bars, also known as ice bars or ice lounges, are unique establishments where the entire interior, including the walls, bar, and seating, is made of ice. These bars are typically kept at sub-zero temperatures to maintain the ice structure.

    In an ice bar, patrons are provided with insulated clothing, such as jackets and gloves, to keep them warm in the icy environment. The bar serves a variety of drinks, including vodka-based cocktails, in ice glasses. The experience of sipping a chilled drink from an ice glass in a frosty setting can be quite memorable.

    Downtown Toronto has some great vodka ice bars and we highly encourage you have the experience.

    HAVE A CHACHA DAY!

Health Plus Fun
3 months ago
I don't usually drink Vodka but I could say CHACHA is one of a kind. Very smooth, distilled to perfection and it's elegance makes a complete package for a classy party hosting.
Jusentta Whiteley
3 months ago
This premium vodka is absolutely delightful. It's smooth and refreshing. I am very impressed and thrilled to have the opportunity to taste such refined vodka.
Orion Eveleigh
2 months ago
I'm a martini woman and CHACHA is the best I've tried such smooth sweet nectar of the gods!! This is most delicious clean and pure taste. Highly recommend.
Richey Garibay
2 months ago
Surprised that this would be a very good Vodka coming out of the Maple Leaf Country but a very great smooth tasting Vodka. Keep up the good work CHACHA!
Michael Powell
2 months ago
CHACHA is an excellent choice for a clean and purely filtered vodka that can be enjoyed straight up or mixed in a cocktail. Definitely one of the best out there!
Rachel B
2 months ago
This is one of my new favourite vodka’s ! Finest blend and Canadian brand, love to show my support to upcoming Canadian brands. Must try! You won’t be disappointed.

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