LCBO Food & Drink Holiday 2024

HIP TO SIP

Special Seasonal Beers For the connoisseur, the elegance and refinement of European brewing never ceases to appeal. These specialty items are perennial favourites for a reason.

With three 500-mL bottles of ale in differ ent styles, O’Hara’s Irish Ales Pack (LCBO 17073, 3 pk, $15.95) fea tures not only the rich caramel of the brand’s Irish Red, but also the Leann Follain, a throw back mid-century Extra Stout with round and unctuous molasses and cacao tones. An annual variant of their ABT 12, St. Bernardus Christmas Ale (LCBO 34143, 330 mL, $4.75) profile of dried fig and darkened caramel. This Belgian Strong Ale is best enjoyed slowly as it evolves in the glass. Perfect for refreshment at small gatherings, a 5-L Warsteiner Premium Pilsener Keg (LCBO 473215, 5 L, $34.95) features a soft palate with light bit terness and a subtle bready character in a format that epitomizes a seasonally appropri ate generosity of spirit. Since 1997, Fullers Vintage Ale (LCBO 676213, 500 mL, $10.35) has played variations on a theme. Although always 8.5 per cent alcohol by volume (ABV), the ingredients shift subtly with every year. This rich, piquant amber ale typically features nuanced bitterness and will keep for at least three years, gaining complexity all the while. adds a selection of exotic spices to the

Classic beers deserve an equally time-honoured pairing, and few combinations are as iconic as beer and pretzels. Canadian brand Twigz makes pretzels in tempting flavours like buttery herb and garlic, fire-roasted jalapeño and zesty dill pickle. Baked rather than fried, they’re also a better-for-you option that doesn’t compromise on taste. twigzpretzels.com

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———————— HOLIDAY 2024