LCBO Food & Drink Holiday 2020

EDITOR’S NOTES

Happy Holidays!

What a long, strange year it has been… We’ve finally arrived at what is meant to be the most wonderful time of the year, but we’re still not sure what the holiday season will look like in 2020. Take a mental break from all that uncertainty and—whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa—dive into this issue that is full of festive recipes, drinks, projects and gift ideas to inspire your celebrations no matter where they take place or who is around your table. If you’re not doing it already, this is the year to support local as much as possible when doing your shopping. Whether for gifting, entertaining or your own personal enjoyment, we’ve got plenty of ideas for how to do that in this issue. Load up on Ontario delicacies from cheese and nuts (page 183) to smoked fish (page 89) and snacks (page 40)—and of course pair them with local wines, beers and spirits too! And, if you’re looking for a unique local expe- rience, check out page 154 for some gifting or future planning inspiration. Yes, this holiday season will be decid- edly different, but that is no reason not to celebrate. Keep it comfy and cozy, but still special, with delicious breakfast sand- wiches for every day of your holiday break (page 207) and check out all the creative ways to use up leftovers before the calendar turns to the new year on page 81. It’s been said that scent evokes the strongest memo- ries and we have five ways to fill your home with the wonderful aromas of the season starting on page 136—gingerbread pop- corn anyone? And, if a lack of travel finds you with a bit more time on your hands, use that time wisely to master the art of cheesecake (page 175) or to find your new favourite mashed potato recipe (page 95).

Every Holiday issue is of course filled with plenty of gifting ideas. On page 201, we’ve put the focus on bottles that give back, making for extra thought- ful gifts. DIY fans might consider putting together a personalized cocktail kit for their best pals (page 73), or if you are a last-minute shopper, we’ve curated some can’t-miss bottles to give over the holidays (page 167)—just pop any of them in the stylish festive gift packaging at the LCBO and cross a line off your list. And don’t forget to treat yourself by raising a toast or two—you’ve certainly earned it this year! We’ve got suggestions for amazing holiday wines at several price points for any occasion starting on page 142 and, on page 128, you’ll find 12 festive cocktails that will appeal to minimalists and maximalists alike. Finally, what’s Christmas without cookies? We went a little crazy with “Cookies Galore!” on page 122 and according to the photography crew, you can’t go wrong with any of the choices, so we dare you—make them all! We wish you a very merry holiday season and a most fervent wish for a happy new year too!

PORTRAIT BY JAMES TSE

@lcbofoodanddrink

lcbofoodanddrink

LCBO

On a personal note, the Food & Drink team lost one of our long-time and favourite contributors earlier this year: recipe developer Julia Aitken. Julia was such a pro and she taught me so much. Never anything but a pleasure and her work was always perfect—she has been and will be missed on our pages, and in our regular chats. We are thinking of her husband, Iain, her family and many friends this holiday season.

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HOLIDAY 2020 FOOD & DRINK