LCBO Food & Drink Spring 2024

INSIDE SCOOP

BAR HACK FLOWER POWER

MATCHMAKER Three Beers for Easter!

Edible flowers encased in ice cubes will add a splash of colour and a lot of spring spirit to a water pitcher, a Gin & Tonic or even a bucket of Champagne on ice. They require just two ingredients and a bit of patience, so give them a shot with our Edible Flower Ice Cubes recipe (p. 105).

If beer is your beverage of choice, you’ll have no trouble finding something to sip at the Easter table. From the LCBO’s seasonal release, here are three local brews to pair with popular spring roasts.

HAM

Whether it’s spiralled, glazed or covered in pineapple, ham needs a crisp lager to counteract the salty-sweet, smoky meat. The European-style Burdock Brewery Deluxe ( LCBO 37113, 473 mL, $4.50 ) fits the bill nicely.

LAMB

While you would traditionally serve lamb with something heavier like a brown ale or stout, Rally Trail Blazer Session Ale ( LCBO 37642, 4 pk, $9.95 ) is flavoured with black currants and is a natural with the gamey meat.

SEASONAL SIPS Blanc, check!

The 2023 vintage marks the fifth anniversary of the fab wine collab between New Zealand’s Invivo and actress Sarah Jessica Parker. The And Just Like That. .. star is more than just a name on the bottle: she helps with the blending every year to maintain the brand’s appealing style. Invivo X, by Sarah Jessica Parker Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ( VINTAGES 14278, $23.95 ) is fresh and fruity with grassy aromas and a zesty finish. If you want to try Parker’s revelatory pairing with lamb chops, pour it with our rosemary-scented Spring Lamb Rack (recipe at LCBO.com/fdspring24).

CHICKEN

When serving roast chicken, you want to go with a lighter brew like Caledon Hills Blanche de Caledon ( LCBO 37740, 473 mL, $3.50 ), a Belgian-style wheat beer inspired by Quebec’s famous Blanche de Chambly.

20 FOOD & DRINK SPRING 2024