LCBO Food & Drink Autumn 2017

DRINK  WINE

The wide range of large-format wines available at the LCBO seems made for entertaining, celebrating and gifting, whether for serving a Thanksgiving crowd, throwing an al fresco afternoon party, or for bearing presents when you’re the guest. BY CHARLENE ROOKE  •  PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES TSE time BIG

AUTUMN IS ATIME of largesse in local markets and fields, creating ideal circumstances to entertain generously. A magnum of wine (the equivalent of two standard 750-mL bottles) can instantly transform any gathering into a special- occasion celebration. “Bigger is better,” says Zoltan Szabo, a sommelier and wine consultant who has witnessed many large bottles opened at establishments like the Trump International Hotel & Tower and The Spoke Club in Toronto. Big bottles require some knowledge and prepa- ration to select and serve: get inspired by our expert tips, plus food-and-occasion pairings. Our suggestions are among the options most widely available in LCBO stores, but keep an eye on VINTAGES releases for other large-format wines that may come and go with the seasons.

FOOD & DRI NK AUTUMN 2017 107