LCBO Food & Drink Spring 2024

SHIFT INTO SPRING

PEPPERONI RAGÙ & FRIED POLENTA P. 114

Juicy Reds + Quick I talian

Supple fruit and subtle seasoning come to gether brilliantly here.

Juicy red wines like these embrace the

umami elements of a meat ragù and, in this case, the delicate but prominent seasoning of sweet onion and fennel. With any tomato sauce, a ripe wine with some body harmonizes with the acidity and lends structure to the sauce, with fruity notes roun ding out the flavours and feel of the dish.

La Crema Monterey Pinot Noir VINTAGES 367896, $34.95

B ersano Costalunga Barbera d’Asti DOCG LCBO 348680, $16.95 The Barbera grape has a richly textured, soft and fruit-forward quality that makes it easy to love. Ripe, plummy fruit plus subtle fresh herb notes delight. Serve it with a slight chill.

13th Street Gamay VQA VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 177824, $19.95 Brimming with bright cherry and plum fruit and just a touch of earthi ness, this wine has supple texture and just enough body for heartier fare. It’s also tremendously enjoyable on its own.

All the best of the Pinot Noir grape here, brim ming with black and red berries, pomegranate and cranberry, in a plush package. Juicy to be sure, but also polished, elegant and layered.

94 FOOD & DRINK SPRING 2024