LCBO Food & Drink Spring 2017

SEASONAL  A CASE FOR SPRING

FOR THE vernal equinox

Les Jamelles Sauvignon Blanc Pays D’Oc LCBO 465146, $13.95 The success of New Zealand’s in- tense, fruit-forward style of Sauvi- gnon Blanc has influenced French winemakers, especially in the Pays d’Oc. Expect powerful grapefruit, passion fruit and gooseberry matched by zingy acidity and a hint of flint in the finish. It’s a big wine but balanced—just right for toasting the day-night equality of the equinox. Pair it with roasted asparagus.

BRUNCH WITH FRIENDS Collective Arts Local Press Apple Cider LCBO 472639, 473 mL, $3.45 The scary black rabbit head on the can does an injustice to a sprightly, refreshing, pleasingly drycider fromaHamiltoncidery. Pressed from Ontario-grown Northern Spy, Ida Red and Spartan apples, it approaches the sharp flavour of European cider-apple ciders while remain­ ing a clear crowd-pleaser. A fine introduction to the ever-grow- ing field of local ciders.

FIRST STEAK OFF THE BBQ Château Croze de Pys Prestige

Malbec Cahors VINTAGES 681668, $17.95

Ever wonder what Malbec tasted like before it moved to Argentina? This is Cahors, France, so there are austere tannins that dry out the aftertaste of plums and mulberries—but that’s the point with Cahors. A good, fatty rib-eye steak will restore order on your palate, taming the tannins and permitting max- imum enjoyment of this classic wine.

44  FOOD & DRI NK SPRING 2017