LCBO Food & Drink Holiday 2017

WINE  JUST IN CASE

Aussie Shiraz almost defines the idea of a “big red,” but the excite- ment begins when there’s more than just power at play. Two Hands Gnarly Dudes Shiraz ( VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 660043, $24.95) is a layer cake of ripe black fruit, licorice and dark chocolate, pepper and charcoal lifted by good acidity and tannic structure. Big, yes, and full-bodied, but it’s taut and won’t exhaust your palate.    From South Africa, Nederburg TheWinemasters Shiraz ( LCBO 527457, $12.95) has a slightly lighter texture and a smoky, almost bit- ter edge wrapped like a rope around black cherry and plummy fruit. Serve it with roast or grilled lamb or sausages and the wine will loosen up as the meaty fats soften the dry tannins, letting the wine’s fruitiness take centre stage. shiraz Is your BBQ still fired up? Shiraz is the sommelier’s solution for steak or grilled lamb chops, and for hearty meat stews and chili.

$ 24.95

Making Riesling is a balancing act. The winemaker must leave a touch of sweet- ness in the wine to counter its vibrant acidity but without being heavy-handed, so the character of the terroir can shine forth. TawseQuarry RoadOrganic Riesling VQA ( VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 198853, $24.50) is a most elegant example of this legerdemain : sweetness and tartness in perfect counter- poise, politely allowing the subtle aromatics to step into the light—mandarin, lime zest and a hint of minerality. The grapes come from a single organic biodynamic vineyard in Niagara’s Vinemount Ridge VQA.    From one of Ontario’s great masters of the variety, Cave Spring Riesling VQA ( L CBO 234583 $15.95) is reliably delicious and beautifully balanced, offering grape- fruit and floral notes—refreshing, tangy and nimble. riesling Always a fresh, racy aperitif, Ontario Riesling is also a brilliantly versatile food wine with matches ranging from sushi to charcuterie and roast pork.

$ 12.95

$ 15.95

$ 24.50

74  FOOD & DRI NK HOLIDAY 2017