LCBO Food & Drink Holiday 2022

LIFT YOUR SPIRITS

Blue There are many versions of blue cheese, but one common trait is their blue veining. Veins are created when benevolent mould is introduced into the cheese early in the ripening stage. As the mould grows outward it helps the

cheese ripen and also develops flavour. When pairing a blue, it’s important to consider the flavours of both the veining and the creamy cheese itself. A gorgeous version to explore is the Celtic Reserve

from Glengarry Fine Cheese in Lancaster, Ont. It’s creamy, nutty and flavourful with a hint of dried porcini mushroom. More to try: Blue Moo from Cows Creamery, P.E.I., or Roquefort Papillon from France.

PAIR WITH DRINKS WITH A TOUCH OF SWEETNESS

› Glayva LCBO 201251, $42.20

A sweet, dessert-style pairing helps create an extraordinary match to blue cheese’s salty, herbaceous and piquant notes. Glayva is the choice for Scotch fans: it’s made by infusing Scotch whisky with tangerine and spice flavours, and is sweetened with honey that beautifully complements bold blue-cheese notes. Serve it on ice accompanied by blue cheese–stuffed dried figs or dates. A bold and robust appetizer pairing with blue, this Cognac is reminiscent of toasted brioche slathered with butter and orange marmalade. The bold fruit notes partner perfectly with the creamy, salty nature of blue cheese— neither overwhelms the other. For special occasions, serve blue cheese slices alongside classic Cognac drinks (from mulled wine to cocktails like Sidecars). › Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge LCBO 12195, 375 mL, $28.10 Our most luxe pairing with blue cheese is this Cognac liqueur, containing vanilla notes and exotic aromas from Caribbean grown bitter oranges. Orange is a classic holiday flavour that’s very complementary with blue cheese. Serve straight or over ice, with a deluxe cheese board that includes dried fruits and toasted nuts. › Gautier VS Cognac LCBO 384867, $56.20

SUPER SUPPORTERS CHOOSE A CHEESE SHOP WITH A STRONG ONTARIO CHEESE OFFERING. VISIT LCBO.COM/FDHOLIDAY22 FOR OUR SHOP DIRECTORY.

ILLUSTRATION BY DAVID SPARSHOTT

82 FOOD & DRINK HOLIDAY 2022