LCBO Food & Drink Holiday 2020

SMOKE & BUBBLES

STEELHEAD + CAVA This salmon trout (commonly known as steelhead) is sustainably farmed and processed in Ontario by Bos Smoked Fish Inc . It’s hot smoked, a process that gently cooks the fish while imparting delectable smoky notes. This adds a flaky texture and bite, so a bubbly with some body and spice, like a Spanish cava or French crémant, is just the ticket. The sky’s the limit with this pairing, as both fish and wine can stand up to multiple flavour additions.

Serve on a bed of microgreens or pea shoots with shaved radish and a light creamy dressing.

   Available frozen in 190-g vacuum packs. Order online at

seafoodonline.cafor delivery across Ontario; also in some grocery stores.

Codorníu Brut Clasico LCBO 215814, $15.00

Bright and crisp with citrus, apple and persistent bubbles, this wine is full of verve. It’s a delightful enhancement to any smoked fish, alone or in a dish.

Beautiful on rye crackers with avocado slices and a drizzle of lemon.

More pairings to try Smoked fish is popular the world over, and it goes well with many global bever- ages. Here are a few others to try with Ontario smoked fish.

Akvavit The Scandinavian spirit spiced with caraway and dill. Beer From light lagers to fruity ales. Chablis Chardonnay from northern Burgundy, a classic seafood pairing. Vouvray Chenin Blanc from the Loire,

Whisky Maritime single-malt Scotch, such as Oban and Talisker. Vodka Premium and chilled. Sherry A crisp, dry, chilled With tonic and a lime wedge, of course. Riesling Dry, from Germany or Ontario. fino. Gin

RAINBOW TROUT + ROSÉ CRÉMANT

A sustainable spring-fed farm near Collingwood, Ont., Kolapore Springs has been producing additive-free (no antibiotics, hormones or animal by-products) rainbow trout since 2009. This fish is a favourite of chefs and restaurant-owners. Hot smoke adds succulent richness without overpower- ing the fish’s subtle flavours. A French crémant, made in the same process as Champagne, provides the required finesse and character to match.

Available in original or peppercorn flavour from caudlescatchseafood.com for shipping across Ontario. Sold by the piece, ranging from 250 to 400 g; also in some specialty food stores.

Louis Bouillot Perle d’Aurore Brut Rosé Crémant de Bourgogne VINTAGES 48793, $21.95

This pink sparkler adds extra flair to any occasion, with bright red berry fruit and bracing acidity pro- viding a lip-smacking counterpoint to the richness of the trout.

ranging from bone-dry to sweet.

90 

HOLIDAY 2020 FOOD & DRINK