LCBO Food & Drink Early Summer 2021 TRADE

A classic match for a big, rich and oaky Chardonnay is this creamy and earthy Mushroom Risotto (recipe at lcbo.com/­ fdearlysummer21).

MEET YOUR MATCH

Rich and complex

STYLE These are usually a win- ery’s top tier, crafted from the best fruit sourced from prestigious vineyards, often with older vines. They’re concentrated, rich and full-bodied, with glorious texture often described as “supple” or “silky.” LOOK FOR Deep gold colour. On the label, look for “hand-picked,” “hand-sorted” and a mention of new French oak barrels. On the shelf label, seek “Medium-Bodied & Flavourful” or “Full-Bodied & Rich.” Flavours of ripe apple, citrus, guava, persimmon and mango, and spices like clove and vanilla. They’re buttery, textured and rich. REGIONS These wines are at home in Burgundy (especially Cote d’Or), Napa and Sonoma, On- tario, Australia and South Africa. PAIRINGS With big dishes like lobster or veal in cream or mush- room sauce. Look for almond, hazelnut and other umami flavours, as thesewines are generally designed for longevity, which comes with lengthy barrel aging.

Ontario Superb value in a full-­ flavoured and remark- ably deep Chardonnay. It’s a perfect match with richer dishes and creamy sauces, but also a delicious sipper.

California This is Napa in a re- strained and refined style: apple, lemon, elegant spice, and a long and supple finish. It’s classy, and irresistible in any setting. Beringer Napa Valley Chardonnay VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 84988, $25.95

Burgundy A definitive Burgundi- an style with ripe ap- ple, melon, citrus and sweet oak spice, it’s a voluptuous wine that perfectly demon- strates the beauty of quality French oak. Bouchard Père & Fils Pouilly-Fuissé LCBO 56580, $35.95

Speck Brothers Family Tree “The Goat Lady”

Chardonnay VQA LCBO 16792, $16.95

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EARLY SUMMER 2021 FOOD & DRINK