LCBO Food & Drink Holiday 2021

PITCHER THIS

POMPIER PUNCH

The absence of spirits would technically disqualify this drink from being called punch, but, in the spirit of creating holi- day libations with less alcohol, we’ll make an exception. Dry vermouth, fruity cassis and sweet-tart lemonade make for a refreshing, aperitif-style punch. 1 ⁄ cups (375 mL) dry vermouth, such as Dolin Vermouth de Chambery Dry AOC ( LCBO 370858, $14.90) ⁄ cup + 2 tbsp (60 + 30 mL) crème de cassis, such as L’abbé François Cassis ( LCBO 57281, $26.00) 8 dashes orange bitters 2 large lemons, washed 2 cups (500 mL) ice cubes, plus more for serving 1 ⁄ cups (375 mL) sparkling lemonade, chilled 3 bushy thyme sprigs, plus more for garnish 1 Pour vermouth, cassis and bitters into a 48 to 64 oz (1.42 to 1.89 L) glass pitcher. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. 2 When ready to serve, cut a long, thin continuous strip of lem- on zest from each lemon using a channel knife. Set aside. 3 Add ice to pitcher. Slowly pour in sparkling lemonade. Add 1 lem- on twist and thyme. Lightly stir. 4 To serve, strain into chilled highball glasses filled with ice. Garnish with thyme and pieces of remaining lemon twist.

Makes 4 to 6 drinks

60

HOLIDAY 2021 FOOD & DRINK