LCBO Food & Drink Autumn 2023

How Low can you Go? Jacob’s Creek Moscato Lower Sugar LCBO 19276, $16 In the 2020s, older and younger generations alike are embrac ing a more health-conscious lifestyle. In these post-pandemic years low-alcohol and no-alcohol beverages have entered the mainstream, with wines like Jacob’s Creek Moscato Lower Sugar embodying the trend for tasty beverages with less sugar and alcohol. No-alcohol, de-­ alcoholized and low-sugar prod ucts sit in the cooler alongside their traditional counterparts, as new technologies ensure that flavours and textures are satisfy ingly close to the real thing.

FOOD’S BEST FRIEND

Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio VINTAGES 106450, $22.95

A wine snob might say Pinot Grigio lacks excitement. Its fans—and it has legions, after decades climbing the wine-popularity pyramid— know it’s an all-occasion crowd-pleaser. When you need an easy-sipping, reliably delicious white, it’s always the correct choice. At a table with meats, salads, canapés, soups, snacks, appetizers and things set aflame, Pinot Grigio serves all palates with style and grace. Even all on its own, it’s your best friend.

BUBBLY PERSONALITY Veuve Clicquot Brut Champagne LCBO 563388, $84.85 Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial LCBO 453084, $80.55 The sommelier’s long-time, best-kept secret—that

Champagne isn’t just for special occasions, but perfect for all occasions—broke through to the mainstream in the last decade. Splashing out on Champagne has become de rigueur for all sorts of celebrations, from the everyday (it’s Friday!) to the spectacular (Happy 5th Anniversary!). Wine lovers embraced everyday Champs and vintage cuvées, magnums as well as half-­ bottles and “splits” (equalling one quarter of a bottle), as a way to indulge in a bit of luxury and create memorable moments.

70 FOOD & DRINK AUTUMN 2023