LCBO Food & Drink Holiday 2021

Unlike still wine, sparkling shouldn’t be swirled in the glass, which causes the carbonation to dissipate. Bubbles, in addition to looking pretty, are essential for releasing aromas.

Stocking stuffers Popaball Bubble tea meets bubbly wine with these little garnishes that add a burst of colour, plus fruit flavours like strawberry, peach and raspberry. Cocktail Kit Upgrade your bubbly with this W&P Carry on Champagne Cocktail kit, featuring elder­ flower syrup, a jigger, a stirring spoon and even a little linen coaster. Cilio bottle sealer A patented design means this stainless-steel stopper keeps bubbles in place even when the bottle is lying down. Available at online retailers such as amazon.ca. Howmany glasses per bottle? Expect to get five glasses from each 750 mL bottle and 10 pours from a magnum (1.5 L bottle). Pour a small amount in each glass and top up after the bubbles subside.

Glassware Over centuries, sparkling wine glass shapes have evolved, and while there are no wrong answers (even a slipper can work!), each has its own appeal. White Wine This option is grow­ ing in popularity among sommeliers. Tulip More angles and a Flute This traditional shape concentrates Coupe An early Champagne

glass modelled on, ahem, the anatomy of Marie Antoinette.

wider opening mean bubbles are directed to the palate.

and showcases effervescence.

Champagne and Caviar Caviar service, with all the fixings, deserves an equally lavish pairing. Piper-Heidsieck Brut Champagne ( LCBO 462432, $60.05) matches the saline freshness of the caviar, cleansing the palate with racy acidity. Find Christopher St. Onge’s Champagne, Caviar & Waffle Soldiers recipe on page 268.

HOLIDAY 2021 FOOD & DRINK