LCBO Food & Drink Holiday 2021

Spoon trick: Does placing a spoon in an open bottle preserve sparkling wine? Science, once again, says no, though many bubbly fans swear by it.

BUBBLY PERSONALITIES To understand the difference between Traditional and Charmat Method bubblies, do a comparative taste test of Champagne and Prosecco. A blend of Champagne’s three grapes (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier at 40, 35 and 25 percent, respectively) from 35 vineyards, Taittinger Brut Réserve Champagne ( LCBO 365312, $62.10) is a vibrant, pale lemon sparkler, heady with aromas of ripe peach, toasted almond and honey. Ginger, vanilla and green apple flavours carry a fresh acidity, expertly balanced against the effervescence. From one of Italy’s most ancient and renowned wine regions, the Valdobbiadene, comes Val d’Oca Prosecco DOCG ( LCBO 340570, $19.90). Light and fruity traditional Prosecco is made entirely of Glera grapes. This straw-blonde sipper is bright and lively, with fresh wildflower aromas and crisp apple and citrus flavours.

Invest in a proper stopper that creates a bubble-saving seal.

Serving smarts Smashing a bottle against the hull of a ship works for boat christenings, but there are better ways to serve bubbles.

How to open a bottle Unless you’ve just won the Stanley Cup, shaking and spraying your bubbly is not recommended. Instead, carefully remove the foil and cage, hold the cork firmly and gently rotate the bottle, easing the cork out with a soft pffft .

A note on sabering Slicing off the cork end of a bottle with a sword, or “saber,” looks cool, but always learn from a pro to ensure safety. Tips include selecting a thick bottle, thorough chilling and running the saber along the bottle seam before slicing.

THE RIGHT TEMP Chill for a few hours in the fridge, 20 minutes in an ice bucket (a handful of coarse salt speeds it up) or 15 in the freezer. Refrigerate for no more than a couple of weeks before opening, as corks can dry out.

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HOLIDAY 2021 FOOD & DRINK