LCBO Food & Drink Early Summer 2023

IN A GRAPE MOOD

Bubbling Up If you like bubbles, these spar kling wines offer an intimidation-­ free zone for exploration. There’s no snobbery in these bubblies, just an invitation to enjoy the innovative new expressions how ever you like—even with a few ice cubes in your glass! Secco is made in a style reminiscent of Italy’s Prosecco, and has a soft and fruity character. This one is a blend of Ontario-grown Vidal, Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer grapes, with delicate pear, peach and apple fla vours buoyed by lively effervescence. It’s lovely with soft cheeses and fresh fruit. Look for it in stores this June. J.P. Chenet Fashion Pineapple Sparkling LCBO 19253, $13.55 Marry fresh pineapple juice with French sparkling wine and get this lively fruit-flavoured sparkler. It’s a refreshingly tropical yet not overly sweet bubbly that works well with canapés, soft cheeses or as a pairing with sorbets and fruity desserts. LCBO 32190, $19.95 The latest in an innovative line of Ontario VQA wines, this lightened-up bubbly has less sugar and lower alcohol by volume (8 per cent), thanks to modern winemaking techniques. Crisp and fresh, it serves nicely along side avocado toast or spring rolls. Peller Family Reserve Secco Bubbles VQA LCBO 32194, $14.95 Mindful Sparkling VQA

ICE ICE BABY In summer, enjoy these bubblies extra chilled: consider serving them in an ice bucket, especially outdoors in the summer heat. Have lots of ice on hand: you can never have too much—but you can certainly have too little!

50 FOOD & DRINK EARLY SUMMER 2023