LCBO Food & Drink Travel 2025

TRAVEL 2025

DISCOVER

Our First-Ever Travel-Themed Issue

COMPLIMENTS OF

Swap winter blues for ocean views.

Redeem for flights starting at 6,000 points. 1 40 , 000 pts ± Savecation starts with earning up to

± Conditions apply. Offer ends June 3, 2025.

Apply now for the TD ® Aeroplan ® Visa Infinite * Card.

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1Based on Air Canada economy one-way short haul (up to 500 miles) flights from select airports. Seats are subject to availability. Excludes taxes and third-party fees that may apply.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Sip and Savour La Dolce Vita

Travel to Italy without leaving the comforts of home, with wines that evoke the country’s lifestyle and breathtaking settings — even if it’s solely in your imagination! Italian wines are known for their exceptional quality and are crafted to pair beautifully with your favourite foods, so they’re always an excellent choice for mealtimes. Transport yourself to a hidden gem of a café, a lively piazza or a picnic with a dreamy view, with light, aromatic whites and a variety of flavourful reds. This spring, savour la dolce vita with the deliciously food-friendly wines of Italy.

Shop the collection, find recipes and more.

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Tommasi Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore Pair this smoky, floral red wine with beef fajitas or pasta with ragù. 910430 l 750 mL l D – 7g/L Reg. $27.95 l Now $25.45 l Save $2.50 *Vintages Essentials Collection Mezzacorona Pinot Grigio This crisp sipper offers a fresh acidity that is a good match for pasta primavera or seafood. 302380 l 750 mL l XD – 5g/L Reg. $14.95 l Now $12.95 l Save $2.00

Tommasi Valpolicella DOC Enjoy this wine’s plum, cherry and spice tones with a charcuterie plate. 19954 l 750 mL l XD – 6 g/L Reg. $17.45 l Now $15.45 l Save $2.00

Rocca Delle Macie Moonlite Chardonnay Toscana IGT

Fresh and aromatic, this fruity sipper goes nicely with chicken and pasta. 30946 l 750 mL l D – 7 g/L Reg. $14.25 l Now $12.25 l Save $2.00

Poderi dal Nespoli Prugneto Romagna DOC Sangiovese Superiore

Cavit Collection Pinot Grigio DOC Expect melon, floral and orchard fruit aromas in this wine. It’s delicious with chicken. 99218 l 750 mL l XD – 5g/L Reg. $13.05 l Now $11.05 l Save $2.00

Spaghetti and meatballs night calls for this rich red’s cherry and plum flavours. 31809 l 750 mL l XD – 3g/L Reg. $19.85 l Now $16.85 l Save $3.00

San Felice Chianti Classico Turkey and roast beef are both great pairings for this smooth, earthy red. 282996 l 750 mL l XD – 2g/L Reg. $20.95 l Now $18.95 l Save $2.00 *Vintages Essentials Collection

Bersano Costalunga Barbera D’Asti DOCG

Ideal for sharing with friends, this wine offers light smoke, leather and plum notes. 348680 l 750 mL l XD – 3g/L Reg. $16.95 l Now $14.95 l Save $2.00

Carpineto Dogajolo Rosso Toscano IGT Discover leather, cherry and licorice flavours in this red. Serve it with baked pasta dishes. 361501 l 750 mL l XD – 2g/L Reg. $18.75 l Now $16.75 l Save $2.00

Zenato Ripassa Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore

Savoury fare like sausages or risotto is a fine match for this fruity wine’s chocolate notes. 479766 l 750 mL l D – 7g/L Reg. $29.95 l Now $26.95 l Save $3.00 *Vintages Essentials Collection

Roscato Rosso IGT Provincia Di Pavia A good option for a dessert wine, this sweet sipper is bursting with berry flavours. 493254 l 750 mL l S – 94g/L $14.95 l 60 Aeroplan ® Bonus Points

Barone Montalto Nero D’Avola Cabernet Sicilia DOC Savour coffee and spice notes in this red. Try it with pasta and meat sauce. 621151 l 750 mL l D – 10g/L Reg. $12.95 l Now $11.95 l Save $1.00 50 Aeroplan ® Bonus Points

Featured products are available at select LCBO stores. Prices subject to change without notice. Price offers in effect from March 2 to 30, 2025. ®Aeroplan offers in effect from March 2 to 29, 2025. Visit LCBO.com/aeroplan for full terms and conditions. ®Aeroplan is a registered trademark of Aeroplan Inc., used under license. ®The Air Canada maple leaf logo is a registered trademark of Air Canada, used under licence. *VINTAGES Essentials Collection is always available at many LCBO locations.

Contents

Features 60 A TASTE FOR TRAVEL Our experts create fabulous recipes using exotic ingredients brought home from vacation. By Food & Drink Recipe Contributors 66 GREAT ESCAPES Wanderlusting? Here are some trending destinations with inspirational drinks to sip while you ponder. By Christine Sismondo 74 OPA! Taste the flavours of Cyprus and Greece with our Easter menu. By Irene Matys with James Chatto

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“Grape Getaways” P. 33 Photography by Rob Fiocca

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY TANATAT PONGPHIBOOL, THAILAND/MOMENT VIA GETTY IMAGES 66

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DISCOVER

Our First-Ever Travel-Themed Issue

COMPLIMENTS OF

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TRAVEL 2025 ————————

CONTENTS

Departments

In Every Issue

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33

14

Editor’s Notes

TRENDS

WINE

Coming Attractions Wondering what the next travel hotspots will be? Get a taste with these inspiring recipes. By Christopher St. Onge

Grape Getaways Bone up on the local scene before you travel to the world’s great wine regions. By Doug Wallace

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Inside Scoop

The latest bits, bites and sips to keep you in the know. By Eric Vellend

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41

SPIRITS

FLAVOURS

The Name Game Cocktails named for their birthplace: try them here, or there. By Charlene Rooke

Forks in the Road Nothing brings back road trip memories like an unforgettable snack. Our experts have recreated a few faves. By Food & Drink Contributors

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Recipe Index

108

CHEF’S DAY OFF

93

Playing Favourites Air Canada executive chef

ARMCHAIR TRAVELLER

49

Showtime Favourite shows with new seasons coming this year inspire complementary nibbles:

BEER

Alison Parisi’s love for homegrown ingredients is on display at work, and on off days, too. By Jessica Huras

Hop Culture Beer destinations from Munich to Maine:

sit back and enjoy! By Victoria Walsh

the ultimate pub crawl. By Michele Sponagle

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MAYA VISNYEI

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FRAGRANT SIPS Perfume your cocktails with aromatic ingredients

TRAVEL 2025

Chief Marketing and Digital Officer, LCBO Vanda Provato

EDITORIAL Editor Jody Dunn Drinks Editor Charlene Rooke Food Editor Eric Vellend Content Editors Jessica Huras, Victoria Walsh

Publication Coordinator Jessie O’Donnell Publication Assistant Piper MacFadyen ART Creative Director Cathy Cicchini Contributing Art Director David Taylor

Senior Designers Emilie Simpson, Rose Pereira Graphic Production Pat Turbach

CONTRIBUTORS Laura Branson, James Chatto, Sage Dakota, Carol Dudar, Michael Elliott, Rob Fiocca, Lindsay Guscott, Katie Hayden, Ivy Knight, Michelle Lucas Larving, Irene Matys, Andrea McCrindle, Kris Osborne, Megan Powell, Michelle Rabin, Christopher St. Onge, Shelly Shnier, Christine Sismondo, Michele Sponagle, James Tse, Maya Visnyei, Doug Wallace PRODUCTION Senior Manager Andrew Lawson Production Assistant Everton Smith Image Editing & Prepress Levon Gosdanian, Enhanced Pixels

SALES Publisher Leslie Bolter

Kirby Miller, Beaches Media Services kirby@beachesmediaservices.com

LCBO prices include tax and bottle deposit and are subject to change without notice.

AVAILABLE APRIL 30

Coming Next Issue

Look for the products featured in this issue in LCBO stores and online at LCBO.com.

For general inquiries about Food & Drink magazine or information about LCBO products and policy, please visit lcbocustomercare.com, or call toll-free 1.800.668.5226 or 416.365.5900. TTY Only: 416.864.6898 or 1.800.361.3291. All advertiser applications are subject to the terms and conditions of the LCBO’s advertising agreement. Food & Drink is published five times a year by the Liquor Control Board of Ontario. Volume 32, Number 3. Food & Drink is printed on paper that contains 10 per cent post‑consumer fibre. Food & Drink is recyclable in communities participating in magazine recycling programs. Publication Mail Agreement No. 40064521 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Food & Drink , 100 Queens Quay East, 9th Floor, Toronto, ON, M5E 0C7 ISSN 1195-5988

Not all of the wines, spirits and beers mentioned in Food & Drink will be available at all LCBO stores. Cette publication est également disponible en français.

ELEVATE YOUR BRUNCH GAME! Fabulous new recipes for a modern brunch

SPRINGTIME SPEARS Delectable asparagus recipes to honour the season

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LCBO NOTES

From our President & CEO

March 8 is International Women’s Day and LCBO is cele brating five years of the Spirit of Inclusion Initiative, a program designed to create opportuni ties for diverse women to enter, advance and thrive in the beverage alcohol industry that has awarded over 40 scholar ships to date. Meanwhile, from March 6 to 23, you can donate alongside your in-store purchase to support Women’s College Hospital’s mission to revolution ize healthcare and help provide equitable access for women and marginalized communities across the province. We’re proud to say that, since 2021, we’ve raised over $11 million in support of Women’s College Hospital Foundation. Finally, I’d like to intro duce a brand-new initiative, announced last month, in part nership with Black Opportunity Fund. It’s our Black Beverage Alcohol Grant Program—pro viding non-repayable $20,000 grants to Black entrepreneurs operating small businesses in the beverage alcohol industry, to help grow their ventures. Beyond finan cial support, the program will also offer capacity-building resources such as mentorship and access to business workshops facilitated by Black Opportunity Fund. This is the latest facet of the LCBO’s Spirit of Sustainability platform, dedicated to creating a sustainable and equitable future for Ontario. Wherever you’re going or whether you’re staying comfort able and warm at home for the last few official weeks of winter, best wishes.

Dear Friends,

Welcome to a special travel themed issue of Food & Drink . Perhaps you’re taking a trip to warmer climates or exploring our home province to enjoy it even more; maybe you’re doing your travelling at this time of year from the comfort of an armchair. Whatever your plans, shopping at the LCBO takes you right around the world through products curated from more than 80 countries, not to men tion every corner of Ontario, and earning Aeroplan points along the way can get you even closer to your next trip. Beyond travel, we’re mak ing it even easier to redeem Aeroplan points when shopping at the LCBO. In late 2024, we launched real-time redemption of Aeroplan points on LCBO.com and the LCBO app, and now you can redeem Aeroplan points towards your purchase in store. By redeeming a minimum of 1,000 points, you get $10 off your purchase, up to a maximum of $250 per transaction. Don’t forget, you can also buy LCBO gift cards using points. It’s something to remember when you’re stock ing up for Easter celebrations or other special occasions. What a wonderful success we had with our “Share the Joy, Give with Purpose” holiday fundraising campaign! Thanks to our generous customers and dedicated retail staff, we raised over $6.2 million in support of the health and well-being of children and families across the province, working with many partners, including CHEO Foundation, Children’s Health Foundation, SickKids, Campfire Circle and McMaster Children’s Hospital Foundation. Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to all of you who contributed.

GEORGE SOLEAS President & CEO, LCBO

PORTRAIT BY CARLYLE ROUTH

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NEW!

Shop with points at the LCBO Now you can redeem Aeroplan points at the LCBO. Get $10 off your purchase for every 1,000 points you redeem at checkout, in-store or online.

Visit LCBO.com/aeroplan for Terms and Conditions. *

Join now Scan or visit aircanada.com/join

®Aeroplan is a registered trademark of Aeroplan Inc., used under licence.

EDITOR’S NOTES

A World of Flavour

On the food side, to give you a taste of what to expect in your travels, or simply to discover new flavours at home, we enlisted our talented recipe developers to create dishes that will truly expand your horizons. In “A Taste for Travel” on page 60 they showcase some of their favourite food souvenirs (Curry Ketchup, Mexican Vanilla, Biber Salçası, etc.) in recipes that make them shine. Then, on page 41, they rekindle nostalgic memories by recreating favourite road trip bites they’ve sampled along the way. Next, we’ve given some thought to emerging travel destinations and have provided edible inspiration for what to expect if you go, on page 83. And finally, on page 74, Irene Matys shares her Cypriot heritage with an authentic meal that is ideal if you celebrate Orthodox Easter—and is also perfectly suited to any Easter or seasonal gathering. Whether you’re lucky enough to travel or simply want to try some thing new, we hope these pages will inspire you to start dreaming or making plans. Safe travels and see you in the spring!

We are in the homestretch of winter now. As the cold lingers, trans port yourself somewhere you’ve always dreamed of going and start planning a trip! As always, we are here to help. Whether it be a currently trending destination, an up-and-coming hotspot or some thing closer to home, our resident experts share their expertise on where to go, what to see, what to sip and taste—and so much more—in the pages of this issue. Even if you are simply daydreaming for your future self from the comfort of home, we hope you will enjoy our first-ever travel-themed issue. Start exploring by flipping to “Great Escapes” on page 66 for a tour of a few destinations that are popular right now—Portugal, Japan, Mexico and Spain. Here we share some ideas for things to add to your itineraries, with a special nod to what you’ll be sipping. If you’re a cocktail fan, you’ll want to try some of the world’s quintessential cocktails when you travel. Starting on page 89 we tell you where to find them once you’re there and, of course, how to make them at home too. For wine and beer lovers, we’ve honed in on destinations that we know you’ll love—filled with great experiences built around wine and beer, and lots of other fun things to do as well. “Grape Getaways” and “Hop Culture” start on pages 33 and 49.

Coming Soon Watch for the next

issue of Food & Drink . Our Spring issue will be in stores and online Wednesday, April 30.

JODY DUNN Editor, LCBO Food & Drink

@lcbofoodanddrink

lcbofoodanddrink

LCBO

PHOTOGRAPH BY JAMES TSE

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DESTINATION CREEMORE

CREEMORE’S LIGHTER SIDE Creemore Springs Brewery’s latest creation, Creemore Light Lager, reimagines the Premium Lager with a light twist that doesn’t sacrifice the robust flavour, rich amber colour, and toasty, hoppy notes fans of the original know and love. And yes, this light brew pairs just as well with your favourite snacks and meals—sip it to believe it. AS THE WEATHER LIGHTENS UP, BRING YOUR BUDS (YOUR TASTEBUDS, THAT IS) AND JOURNEY TO IDYLLIC CREEMORE, WHERE THE STREETS ARE QUAINT, THE FLAVOURS ARE FRESH, AND THE BEER (ESPECIALLY NEW CREEMORE LIGHT) IS LEGENDARY. WHETHER IT’S A DAY TRIP OR 48-HOUR GETAWAY, YOU’LL STROLL, SIP, AND STAY YOUR WAY TO AN EPIC ADVENTURE. START THE ENGINE…

TASTE THE CREEMORE CLASSICS

NEW!

A TASTE OF THE TOWN You may be used to picking up a pack or enjoying Creemore’s six premium brews at your local pub, but visiting the brewery’s namesake town is sure to delight. Nestled between Caledon, Ontario, and the Georgian Bay region, the village jewel is the Creemore Springs Brewery, founded by John Wiggins in 1987. Book a tour and sample the tasting menu at the taproom, where the motto is, “Cold Beer Served with a Warm Welcome.”

STOP PHOTOS BY JESSICA CRANDLEMIRE LIGHT & SHADOW PHOTO / WITHLIGHTANDSHADOW.CA / @LIGHTANDSHADOWPHOTO

Scan me for a surprise from the good folks at Creemore Brewery!

READY FOR YOUR FIRST ROAD-TRIP STOP?

Must be Legal Drinking Age. Don't Drink and Drive.

turn the page for your custom itinerary!

STOP 2 CREEMORE SPRINGS BREWERY Wander the town’s Hallmark movie-like streets and explore the local shops. Of course, no visit to central Creemore would be complete without a brewery tour and a pint or, better yet, a flight to sample the fresh flavours of Creemore Springs. PAIR IT WITH Can’t decide which brew to sample? Pair your visit with a flight and a board game in the cozy tap room, or enjoy the fresh air on the four-season patio!

Mono Cli s Inn Dining Room

STOP 1 MONO CLIFFS INN

PAIR IT WITH The toasty notes

Start the day on an active note with a hike on one of the eight trails at Mono Cli s Provincial Park. After that, it’s time for a well-earned lunch at the historic Mono Cli s Inn, conveniently located right across the road. Satisfy that outdoorsy appetite with a hearty meal—like Braised Beef Tacos—enjoyed in the rustic dining room, stone-walled lower pub, or spacious patio.

of Creemore Light Lager bring out the light acidity of the taco’s pickled onions and jalapeño crema.

MONO CLIFFS INN BRAISED BEEF TACOS

FOR THE BRAISED BEEF: • 1 Chuck roast (3 to 4 lbs) cut into 2 inch cubes • 4 Tbsp neutral cooking oil • 1 Carrot, diced • 1 Onion, diced • 1 Stick celery, diced • 4 Cloves garlic • 2 Sprigs rosemary • 2 Sprigs thyme • 2 Bayleaf • 1 Litre beef stock • 1 Cup red wine • Flour tortillas (put aside until assembly) Season beef with salt and pepper. In dutch oven over high heat, add neutral cooking oil, then brown beef on all sides. Once beef is browned, remove and add celery, onion, carrot, garlic, and herbs. Return beef to pot and cover with beef stock and red wine. Bring pot to simmer, cover with lid and place in 325-degree oven for 2-1/2 to 3 hours until meat is tender. Cool and shred with forks.

FOR THE PICKLED RED ONIONS: • 2 Large red onions, peeled and sliced • 1/2 Cup red wine vinegar

In bowl of food processor, add

jalapeño peppers, cilantro, and lime juice. Pulse to rough paste, then add remaining ingredients. Purée until smooth.

• 1/2 Cup water • 1/2 Cup sugar • 1 Tsp salt

Creemore Springs Brewery Tap Room

Place sliced red onions in heatproof bowl. Combine vinegar, water, sugar and salt in small saucepan and bring to boil. Pour hot liquid over onions and let stand for 30 minutes. FOR THE JALAPEÑO CREMA: • 1 Cup cream cheese • 1/4 Cup sour cream • 1/4 Cup pickled jalapeño peppers • 2 Tsp garlic powder • 1 Tsp cumin • 1/2 Cup cilantro leaves • 1 Tbsp honey • 1 Tbsp salt

4

Scrape bowl with spatula to incorporate all ingredients. Thin with more water or lime juice if needed. ASSEMBLY: Warm flour tortillas slightly. Place warm braised beef in tortilla and top with jalapeño crema, cilantro and pickled red onions. Add other toppings, such as pico de gallo, shredded cheese, or hot sauce.

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GET MORE CREEMORE! Want to keep exploring the area? Check out a few more in-the-know local spots.

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5 BANK CAFÉ O ering farm-fresh eats with a gourmet twist, this café is the perfect stop for a quick refreshment. Don't miss their famous carrot cake! 6 MYLAR & LORETA'S Serving the community for 35+ years, this Singhampton spot serves up elevated comfort food in an historic building. 7 THE KEEP REFILLERY Embrace your sustainable side and reduce single-use plastic consumption with a stop at the Keep. Bring your own containers to refill with your favourite personal care and home products.

TORONTO

• 1 Tsp black pepper • 1/4 Cup lime juice

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STOP 3 THE PINE

FRESH IS BEST Check for the harvest date when buying oysters, because nothing beats fresh. Ask your local fish monger when they were harvested. THE BANG TEST Tap two oysters together on their cup side — if they sound hollow, toss ’em. GET A GRIP Place your oyster cup side down and flat side up on a stable surface, gripping it firmly with a towel to protect your hand. After a day exploring the town, what could be finer than dinner at Creemore’s first Michelin Star-winning restaurant, The Pine. Housed in a landmark space with a past (it was formerly a gas station), the one-of-a-kind experience is a reflection of the chef’s career-building years in China. Book your reservation—we recommend the Chef’s Table for an exciting and delicious journey—in advance to avoid disappointment: thepinecreemore.ca PAIR IT WITH The Pine’s menu is seasonal, featuring an ever-changing variety of local ingredients and beverages. We suggest you pair your meal with Creemore’s seasonal o erings as suggested by the chef.

The Pine

STOP 4 PENNY’S MOTEL & APRÈS Head to Thornbury and check in at Penny’s—an Instagrammable, newly renovated motel—for a nightcap and late-night oyster snack. With calming, themed rooms (think: forest and ocean), a firepit, and the shores of Georgian Bay nearby, Penny’s Motel & Après o ers a calming respite to end the busy day. PAIR IT WITH The fresh malt bouquet and lightly nutty taste of the classic brew that started it all: Creemore Premium Lager.

AW, SHUCKS! Ready to try shucking oysters at home? These tips from the pros at Penny’s will turn an intimidating-sounding task into a party trick for impressing your guests.

SHARPEN UP Insert the tip of a sturdy oyster knife (not a steak knife or screwdriver) into the hinge of the oyster, that narrow point where the top meets the bottom. Press down into the oyster while twisting the knife until you hear a satisfying pop. Run the blade along the top shell to release the oyster, then gently slide the knife under the oyster to detach it from the bottom. THE FINISHING TOUCH Keep the liquor (the briny liquid)—it’s part of the magic! Top if o with our recipe for fizzy mignonette and pair with a Creemore Premium Lager for a deliciously unexpected duo!

PENNY’S MIGNONETTE

Mix these ingredients together and drizzle over freshly shucked oysters for a flavour explosion that’s fun and fizzy (because life’s better with bubbles)!

• 2 Tbsp finely chopped shallots • 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar • 2 Tbsp sparkling wine • 1 Tsp black pepper

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Creemore Springs Brewery Pilot Brew Room

Penny's Motel & Après Guest Room

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Inside Scoop The latest bits, bites and sips to keep you in the know. BY ERIC VELLEND

March Madness ST. PATRICK’S DAY GETAWAY With St. Patrick’s Day on a Monday this year, why not make a long weekend of it and visit an American city with deep Irish roots? Chicago famously dyes its river green on the Saturday before to coincide with the parade. Boston’s parade runs on the Sunday in South Boston, where you can enjoy a pint at the iconic L St Tavern after. As for Irish pubs, New York can’t be beat—it’s the home of McSorley’s Old Ale House, the oldest continuously run saloon in the city.

DRINK OF THE SEASON

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at home with our Shamrock Shandy (p. 99), a smooth, refreshing highball of beer and lemonade spiked with Irish whiskey.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES TSE; FOOD STYLING BY SAGE DAKOTA; PROP STYLING BY LAURA BRANSON

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Touring Grand

Apple Pie Trail applepietrail.ca In a province that produces over 100 million bushels of apples annually, South Georgian Bay is a key player and a destination for apple aficionados. In addi tion to a variety of apples, you can pick up cider, jelly, pies (and pierogies!) on this terrific trail.

Every road in Ontario seems to lead to some thing delicious. To ensure you hit the best spots along the way, helpful themed trails and tours have popped up province-­ wide. From doughnuts to foraged food, your taste for adventure starts here. — MICHELE SPONAGLE

Butter Tart Tour kawarthasnorthumberland.ca/butter-tart-tour Raisins or no raisins? Canadians have strong opinions about the ideal butter tart. No matter what camp you’re in, you will find a favourite on this DIY tour featuring 50 sweet stops scattered around Northumberland County, Peterborough and the Kawartha Lakes.

Underground Donut Tour undergrounddonuttour.com Doughnut enthusiasts can walk off a few calories during a 2-hour Toronto tour that hits hidden gems and popular shops including Bloomer’s, known for its vegan versions. As you nibble, you’ll also visit Graffiti Alley and learn about local history.

Eat More Scarborough eatmorescarborough.com The diversity of this eastern area of

PUCK’S FORAGING TOURS pucksplenty.com

Toronto provides fertile ground for tast ings led by Howard Tam, a passionate foodie and urban planner. His night tours celebrate global cuisines including Malay, Thai, Tamil, Caribbean and Chinese.

Led by naturalist and sea soned forager Peter Blush, these jaunts explore wooded trails in search of wild edibles including mushrooms, nettles and wild ginger. After two decades living in the Stratford area, Peter has developed an encyclopedic knowledge of foraged fare.

ONTARIO CRAFT BEER TRAILS ontariocraftbrewers.com/trails

Beer-focused adventures await across the province. To explore them, choose one of the 14 smartly curated trails highlighting local offerings. All roads lead to passionate craft brewers with stories to share and new discoveries ready to sip.

ILLUSTRATION BY EMILIE SIMPSON

Around the World in 5 Drinks With certain countries dominating the LCBO shelves, it’s easy to forget that beer, wine and spirits are made in every corner of the globe. Here are five to try from unexpected locations.

Buy a Map GPS has a tendency to guide you to your

destination as the crow flies, leading you down ever-narrowing country lanes. A map is a great standby, lets you see your journey in useful context, opens your eyes to side trips, and you can learn (or teach your kids) the vanishing skill of map reading. —JAMES CHATTO

A WORLD OF FLAVOUR

SINGAPORE Tiger Beer LCBO 537258, 500 mL, $3.40 First launched in 1932, this crisp, gently bitter lager is terrific with rich seafood such as salmon and crab.

INDIA Royal Challenge Spirit Whisky

CROATIA Pelješac Red LCBO 460873, $15.95 Made from the indig enous Plavac Mali grape, this is a juicy, medium-bodied red with cherry flavours and fine tannins.

NICARAGUA Flor de Caña Centenario 12 Year Rum LCBO 158014, $49.50 This smooth, balanced rum has notes of

THAILAND Singha Premium Lager

LCBO 22570, 490 mL, $2.95 Thailand’s OG brew is a malty, toasty lager with a creamy texture that soothes the palate after spicy food.

VINTAGES 354837, $31.70 Fondly known as RC, this spirit tastes more like amber rum than whisky, and it’s terrific mixed with Coke.

bananas and cloves. Sip it neat or mix into a Rum Old Fashioned.

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SAVE THE DATE Top Food Festivals While pondering your next vacation, consider working an acclaimed food festival into your visit. These four events offer immersive experi ences around favourite foods from ramen to chicken wings. —MS NATIONAL BUFFALO WING FESTIVAL Buffalo, N.Y. (Aug. 30 and 31) Over its 22-year history, an estimated 5.7 million chicken wings have been consumed at this fête. Events range from an amateur “sauce off” to a hot wing–eating contest. buffalowing.com NAPOLI PIZZA VILLAGE Naples, Italy (July 1 to 6) Held in the birthplace of mod ern pizza, this event sees about 1 million people come to taste the creations of pizzaiolos worldwide. Take a class to master the perfect pie. pizzavillage.it SAPPORO RAMEN SHOW Sapporo, Japan (May) Held over 13 days, this event gives attendees a chance to slurp regional variations of Japan’s most beloved dish. Top chefs compete and show off their skills, as the public weighs in. sapporoevents.com SALON DU CHOCOLAT Paris, France (Oct. 29 to Nov. 2) Held annually since 1996, this prestigious event celebrates chocolate in all its forms, and attracts some of the world’s top chocolatiers, pastry chefs and cocoa producers. salon-du-chocolat.com

Just a Click Away Online food shops have made finding international ingre dients a breeze. Here are three big players that cover locales from Argentina to Afghanistan. SOUTH ASIAN CENTRAL southasiancentral.ca Offers a staggering array of South Asian foods including chick pea flour, hard-to-find asafoetida and Britannia’s beloved biscuits. UNIMARKET LATIN FOOD unimarket.ca Covering countries from Mexico down to Argentina, this shop has what you’ll need to make everything from tamales to buñuelos. T&T SUPERMARKET tntsupermarket.com The selection leans toward China, but East Asia is well covered. If you don’t

live close to one their 14 Ontario locations, order online.

Comfy Kicks A versatile, all-weather shoe can streamline your packing by reducing the need for multiple pairs, while ensuring you feel comfy and prepared in any conditions during your trip. Vessi’s lightweight, moisture-wicking waterproof sneakers check all the boxes. Made from soft knit fabric, they’re stylish, functional and produced by a Canadian-owned, Vancouver- based company. ca.vessi.com —JESSICA HURAS

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Trails Happy

While experiencing the flavour of regional drink cultures via wine tours and brewpub crawls is de rigueur , we sometimes forget about spirit trails. Here are four famous distillery circuits from around the world, and a few right here at home. —CHARLENE ROOKE

Kentucky Bourbon Trail kybourbontrail.com Choose among 46 dis tilleries grouped into five statewide trails, plus an Urban Bourbon Trail (bourboncountry.com/ urban-bourbon-trail/) in Louisville. Target a favou rite brand to sip through a masterclass, or join a tour to experience several distilleries in one day.

La Ruta del Tequila rutadeltequila.mx Most Mexican tequila is produced in the Jalisco region—Jose Cuervo even runs a train from nearby Guadalajara to the charm ing town of Tequila. Book individual brand tastings and visits, or hop a fun barrel-shaped bus for a day tour of multiple distilleries.

Malt Whisky Trail maltwhiskytrail.com Visit nine notable Speyside single-malt producers “from sea to source” down Scotland’s River Spey. Follow the trail’s recommendations for historic sites, castle and guesthouse accommo dations, and restaurants as you go.

LONDON GIN TRAIL wsta.co.uk/locations londonpass.com London will forever be associated with dry-style gin. Craft a self guided tour of over half a dozen distilleries in and around London using the Wine and Spirit Trade Association’s interactive map or a resource like The London Pass.

Canadian Spirit A coast-to coast roundup of Canadian spirit trails.

VANCOUVER ISLAND CRAFT SPIRITS PATH Indie distilleries are grouped into five highly explorable regions. vancouverisland.travel/ itineraries/craft-spirits

WHISKY IN WINDSOR Two options to explore Windsor’s whisky legacy, including North America’s largest distillery. whiskytown.ca, barrelsbottlesbrews.ca

CRAFT GIN TRAIL Visit seven craft distilleries in South western Ontario that gin-novate in uniquely regional ways. craftgintrail.com

NOVA SCOTIA GOOD CHEER TRAIL In addition to spirits, it includes stops at beer, wine, cider and mead producers. goodcheertrail.com

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION (KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL); DUKES BAR (LONDON GIN TRAIL); ILLUSTRATION BY EMILIE SIMPSON

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inkentertainment.com

INSIDE SCOOP

Local Wines with Global Food Ontario, especially the GTA, offers a peerless selection of global cuisine that just happens to pair well with local wines. Here are three bottles to open on your next takeout night.

SHOP & EARN MARCH DEALS

While shopping at the LCBO, you can earn Aeroplan ® bonus points on every purchase (one point for every $4) plus extra on limited-time promotions. To help you rack up some points this March, we’ve got a pair of premium spirits and a local wine. They’re ideal for entertaining or gifting, and the offer is good until March 29. For more information, including other offers and how to sign up, visit LCBO.com/aeroplan.

MAY WE SUGGEST

1 MEXICAN + SAUVIGNON BLANC Zesty, herbal Creekside Sauvignon Blanc VQA ( LCBO 620724, $15.95 ) is a great match with guacamole, fish tacos and mole verde.

Ren Ultra Premium Vodka LCBO 36479, $51.95 300

2 THAI +

OFF-DRY RIESLING Featherstone Black Sheep Riesling VQA ( VINTAGES 80234, $19.95 ) has the acidity to cut through coconut milk and a gentle sweetness to temper heat.

Bushmills Black Bush Irish Whiskey LCBO 61374, $40.50

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3 INDIAN + PINOT NOIR With tandoori

or lamb curries, it’s hard to beat fruity, medium-bodied G. Marquis Silver Line Pinot Noir VQA ( VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 258673, $19.95 ).

Cave Spring Chardonnay VQA LCBO 228551, $17.95 100

Freshen Up Add a luxe touch to your carry-on with a tube of Marvis. Known as the haute cuisine of toothpaste, the brand was founded in Florence in 1958. Their Classic Strong Mint is exactly that. Always available in travel size, you’ll find it in many of the best hotels and at well.ca . —IVY KNIGHT

Aeroplan® is a registered trademark of Aeroplan Inc., used under license. The Air Canada maple leaf logo® is a registered trademark of Air Canada, used under license.

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Better on the Bench

Known for warm hospitality and elegant wines, crafted in small lots by award-winning winemaking teams fueled by passion and purpose.

grazethebench.com

EXPLORE THE WINERIES OF THE BEAMSVILLE BENCH • ONLY 1 HOUR FROM TORONTO.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Alive with activity, the Beamsville Bench is a rich blend of fine wine, great food, and natural beauty. BENCH IMPRESSED Stunning scenery, boutique wineries, great food and a welcoming atmosphere make the Beamsville Bench a must-visit destination for locals and visitors to southwest Ontario alike. From Toronto, this renowned wine region is less than an hour along the QEW – the closest major wine region to the GTA, in fact – so while there are plenty of charming hotels, inns and B&Bs around, if your timing’s tight, there’s no need to stay overnight. A sub-appellation of the Niagara Escarpment, Beamsville Bench is known for its award-winning, owner-operated artisanal wineries. Stop in to a tasting room to sample the local bounty and you’re likely to be greeted by a winemaker or winery owner sharing their stories. You can try wines by the glass or a flight accompanied by gourmet nibbles, or opt for more in-depth experiences, from guided tastings to vineyard tours to hands-on exploration of vines and soil. Speaking of soil, that’s one of the things that makes the Bench so special. The area is renowned for its glacier-forged soils dotted with limestone, which lend a mineral character to the wines. In addition, thanks to the Bench’s elevation, breezes that blow in off Lake Ontario bounce back off the Escarpment, keeping vineyards at just the right temperatures for the grapes to ripen fully and slowly, making the wines beautifully complex and food-friendly. Just one reason you might want to stop in at one of the many winery restaurants for a delicious meal paired with their wines. Whether you’re cozying up inside or on a patio outside, don’t miss the Bench’s amazing scenery (how could you?): beautiful vistas of rolling vineyards framed by Lake Ontario in the distance. On a clear day you can even see the Toronto skyline.

A TASTE OF THE BENCH Try these wines from Beamsville Bench wineries, featured in the March 15 Vintages New Release Collection, available in LCBO stores and on LCBO.com.

ROSEWOOD SÉMILLON 2022 VQA Niagara Lakeshore Aromatic & Flavourful 177758

(XD) 750 mL $21.95

LE CLOS JORDANNE JORDAN VILLAGE CHARDONNAY 2021 VQA Niagara Peninsula Full-bodied & Rich 20455 (XD) 750 mL $30.00

HIDDEN BENCH ESTATE ORGANIC RIESLING 2020 VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment Aromatic & Flavourful 183491 (XD) 750 mL $24.95

PENINSULA RIDGE RESERVE MERITAGE 2022 VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment Medium-bodied & Fruity 299180 (XD) 750 mL $29.95

FIELDING CABERNET FRANC 2022 VQA Niagara Peninsula Medium-bodied & Fruity 36194 (XD) 750 mL $26.15

THIRTY BENCH SMALL LOT PINOT NOIR 2021 VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment Medium-bodied & Fruity 44041 (XD) 750 mL $40.00

THE ORGANIZED CRIME BREAK-IN PINOT NOIR 2021 VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment Medium-bodied & Fruity 396267 (XD) 750 mL $24.95

Prices are accurate at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. For up-to-date prices, visit LCBO.com.

GRAZE THE BENCH 2025! Experience Join 7 premium wineries,

7 chefs, and 7 bands to kick off summer on the Beamsville Bench! Only 60 minutes from downtown Toronto, explore picturesque vineyards as you walk between properties,

VISIT THE BENCH GRAZE THE BENCH LOVE THE BENCH

each featuring delicious VQA wines, inspired

dishes, and live music!

June 7 & 8 from 12PM to 5PM

TICKETS ON SALE March 12 at 10:00AM at grazethebench.com

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WINE

Grape Getaways From visiting Australian vineyards to sampling expert pairings on a French river cruise, the pursuit of fine wine is reason enough to embark on worldly adventures to these beloved grape-growing regions.

WEEKEND IN NIAGARA

BY DOUG WALLACE ————— PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROB FIOCCA

The Niagara Wine Region produc ers are masters at cool-climate winemaking, in an area also filled with farm-to-table restaurants and local food markets. Wineries like Château des Charmes and Pillitteri Estates Winery provide plenty of tasting-room variety. EMBRACE THE PAST Pop into the historic Niagara Parks Power Station, a museum by day and an immersive sound and light show by night, each highlighting the history of the building and its part in the story of electricity. FIND A QUIET MOMENT The 40-hectare Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens is famous for its roses, as well as the adjacent Butterfly Conservatory. More than 2,000 butterflies flit among the exotic plants. EXTEND YOUR STAY Open up your tour to include Niagara-on-the-Lake, with its boutique shops along historic Queen Street, soothing spas like 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa, and Shaw Festival plays. WINES TO TRY Through crisp, lively whites and elegant reds, Niagara wines have a freshness and complexity that reflects the diverse microclimates and unique terroir. Expect higher acidity, unexpectedly bold flavours and nuanced, earthy undertones. Featherstone Cabernet Franc VQA VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 64618, $21.95 Flat Rock Good Karma Chardonnay VQA

While good food and wine are memorable parts of every holiday, creating an itinerary that focuses on your love of wine is a delicious idea. Drinking your way around a favou rite wine region lets you weave winery visits with historic landmarks, cool hotels and modern must-see stops.

VINTAGES 356873, $17.95 Fielding Riesling VQA LCBO 146761, $16.95

PROP STYLING BY SHELLY SHNIER

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GRAPE GETAWAYS

NEW ZEALAND: HAWKE’S BAY

Easy Drinking Down Under From hot to cool climate regions, distinct grape varieties and an increasing focus on sustainable, organic viticulture, Australia, New Zealand and the talented winemakers there have a knack for creating wines that appeal to many different tastes.

Many visitors cycle their way to more than 100 cellar doors via the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail in the Hawke’s Bay wine region on the east coast of the North Island. Standout estates include the gorgeous oceanfront Elephant Hill winery and Black Barn Vineyards, which offers luxurious overnight stays. WANDER THE STREETS The coastal city of Napier is the cultural capital, famous for its Art Deco architec ture and art galleries. Nearby Hastings is filled with artisanal markets and farm to-table restaurants, with its arty suburb of Havelock North yielding charming cafés and upscale boutiques. HEAD FOR THE HILLS The stone escarpments of Te Mata Park offer more than 30 kilometres of scenic “tramping” (Kiwi slang for hiking). WINES TO TRY The temperate maritime climate of Hawke’s Bay and its diverse terrains, from gravelly riverbeds to clay loams, make for bright acidity and layered flavours. Expect whites with fresh minerality and great aging potential, or perhaps a grapefruit-fresh rosé made from Malbec and Merlot grapes.

WINES TO TRY The Barossa Valley’s old vines, particularly of Shiraz, yield con centrated flavours of spicy dark fruit and chocolate. Skilled winemakers here rely on long, hot summers for both intensity and structured tannins. Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz/Cabernet VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 285544, $18.95 Two Hands Gnarly Dudes Shiraz Barossa Valley VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 660043, $24.95

Matua Sauvignon Blanc Hawke’s Bay LCBO 619452, $17.95

AUSTRALIA: BAROSSA VALLEY

South Australia’s wine and food hub is famous for its Shiraz, made from the same grape as Syrah. Penfolds conducts a blend-your-own wine activity, while the cooking classes at Jacob’s Creek deliver a true farm-to-table experience. HIT THE BEACH Adelaide’s best beaches are quite close to the centre of town, making access a snap. Semaphore Beach is great for whale- and dolphin-spotting, while Glenelg Beach is popular for its buzzy atmosphere and great restaurants. COMMUNE WITH NATURE Kangaroo Island is considered Australia’s Galápagos. Go for the native wildlife and diverse parkland, including Flinders Chase National Park and Kelly Hill Caves. Estate pitstops include Dudley Wines and False Cape Wines. Splurge for a night at the sprawling and soothing Southern Ocean Lodge.

Oyster Bay Pinot Grigio VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 326090, $20.95

Kim Crawford Rosé VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 650325, $20.95

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GRAPE GETAWAYS

CHILE: COLCHAGUA VALLEY

South American Terroir Visitors to the Southern Hemisphere on our side of the globe find everything from crisp whites to bold reds, along with broad avenues, charming plazas and sophisticated tastes in cities from Santiago to Mendoza.

STEP BACK IN TIME The renowned Colchagua Museum in Santa Cruz features exhibits on Chilean history from pre-Columbian times to the present. GIDDY UP The valley has a strong cowboy tradition, with local farms and haciendas delivering a real cowboy-culture experience, including horse manship training. REACH FOR THE SKY Hot-air balloon rides at sunrise provide life-altering views of the vineyards and sur rounding countryside. and the Andes makes for cooling influences that bring about a welcome freshness and balanced acidity. The warm and dry climate helps generate bold reds replete with herbal nuances and signature spiciness. Cono Sur Pinot Noir Organic LCBO 16363, $15.95 Casillero del Diablo Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon LCBO 278416, $13.95 tasting-room tours and overnight winery expe riences. Visit the Vik Chile Hotel and Nature Reserve for its 360-degree views and dramatic titanium rooftop, or the stunning Relais & Châteaux–designated Clos Apalta Residence. WINES TO TRY The valley’s proximity to both the Pacific Carménère is the flagship grape of the Colchagua Valley. Visitors can engage with the region’s wine heritage on a histori cal steam train trip through the valley,

ARGENTINA: MENDOZA

Malbec is the grape of choice in Mendoza, which is the name of a province, city and wine region at the foot of the Andes Mountains. The enjoyment of wine is embedded into the culture here. The high-altitude vineyards deliver intense flavours and luxe experiences. Lodges set within the wine estates include the tranquil Casa de Huéspedes Bodega Gimenez Riili and The Vines Resort & Spa, where you can help harvest grapes or make your own custom wine.

GET SPORTY Mendoza is an outdoor-­ enthusiast’s dream, filled with opportuni ties for cycling, hiking, horseback riding, climbing, rafting and skiing. Whew!

TAKE THE WATERS A day trip to The Cacheuta Thermal Baths delivers hydrotherapy and moun tain scenery via 10 stone

WINES TO TRY Mendoza’s dry and sunny days and cool nights deliver fresh, intense and concentrated flavours, plus an integrated acidity. The Malbecs are espe cially noted for their rich fruit character and plush texture.

La Mascota Cabernet Sauvignon VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 292110, $19.95

Alamos Chardonnay LCBO 448761, $16.75

Kaiken Estate Malbec VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 58339, $18.95

pools of hot-springs water. There’s also a craft brewery.

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What Robert Mondavi saw was not just a place of exquisite beauty, but the birthplace of an idea for what wine from Napa Valley could and should be. Praised by critics and wine lovers alike, our Napa Valley wines are a beautiful expression of one man’s pursuit of something more. We Brought Napa to the World

5 X

THE BEST VINEYARD

in North America | No.16 in the World

WORLDSBESTVINEYARDS.COM, 2024

Please enjoy our wines responsibly. © 2024 Robert Mondavi Winery, Oakville, CA

GRAPE GETAWAYS

European Tastes Becoming acquainted with millennia-old European wine culture and its many modern, sustainable sensibilities brings variety to your wine knowledge.

Cruise to European Vineyards

Taking an ocean or river cruise that docks near wine-producing regions can be a fun and unex pected way to experience wine travel. Multiple cruise lines also have specific wine-related ele ments on their itineraries, either through an in-depth culinary focus or vineyard shore excur sions. Two big benefits here: You only unpack once and you don’t have to do any of the driving. VIA THE MEDITERRANEAN Cruise ships docking in Marseille set you up for touring excur sions through the vineyards of Provence. Experience charming tasting rooms, olive groves and lavender fields. DOWN THE DANUBE River cruises that stop in Vienna let you explore the nearby Wachau Valley. And in the hills overlooking the city, Wieninger at Nussberg upholds the Austrian buschenschank tradition of serv ing tastings alongside regional dishes and charcuterie.

ITALY: PIEDMONT

Italy has a history of viticulture that dates back to 8th century BC, making travel here a history lesson as well as a relaxing retreat. Nowhere is this more evident than in Piedmont, which has more DOCG wines than any other region. Stops can include the historic Marchesi di Barolo and Fontanafredda wineries, both noted for their Barolo and Barbaresco.

WINES TO TRY Noted for firm tannins and high acidity, wines from the hilly landscape and varied soils of Piedmont have great depth and nuanced minerality, evolving into complex, layered wines with time.

Banfi Principessa Gavia Gavi VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 250696, $21.95 Bersano Costalunga Barbera D’Asti DOCG LCBO 348680, $16.95 Michele Chiarlo Palas Barolo LCBO 31810, $39.95

HUNT FOR TRUFFLES White truffles are leg endary in the Alba region, well-known for its guided foraging and truffle-themed dining experiences.

POP INTO THE PALACE Must-see cultural sights in Turin include the stunning 16th-century Palazzo Reale di Torino and the handsomely embellished Palazzo Madama.

OUT ON THE AEGEAN Greek island voyages that

include Santorini put you within a short drive of the volcanic wines of Santo Wines, Venetsanos Winery and more.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUCENTIUS/E+ VIA GETTY IMAGES (ITALY BACKGROUND IMAGE, LEFT); KYPROS/MOMENT UNRELEASED VIA GETTY IMAGES (CRUISE SHIP)

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