LCBO Food & Drink Travel 2026

WINE

Grape Expectations Italy’s diverse regions are known for their traditional cuisines and wine styles, which speak to a unique sense of place and illuminate the distinct culinary heritages that make the country such a wonderful place to explore.

BY DICK SNYDER WITH RECIPES BY IRENE MATYS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROB FIOCCA

Veneto With its splendid

architecture and intensely romantic vibe, Venice is a main draw to Italy’s northeast. The cuisine ranges from snacky little cicchetti to preparations highlighting regional ingredients such as calf’s liver, polenta and anchovies. KNOWN FOR Diverse cuisine matches a selection of wine styles, both white and red. In Veneto, this is revealed in the lightly effervescent Prosecco, made from the Glera grape, and in fruit-forward and often bolder Valpolicella, made with Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara grapes. CLASSIC PAIRING Prosecco and Fritto Misto were designed to go together, with the light, crispy battered seafood providing the irresistible salty crunch that harmonizes splendidly with the wine’s zippy flavours and velvety texture.

Find this recipe at LCBO.com/fdtravel26

MUST TRYS

Tommasi Ripasso Valpolicella Classico Superiore VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 910430, $27.95 This wine is dry and savoury, with spice and tannins bolstering dark fruit, along with bright red berries and chocolate. The earthy finish lingers and works well with meat dishes.

Bottega Vino Dei Poeti Prosecco DOC LCBO 897702, $18.95

When aperitivo hour hits, reach for this bubbly with bright apple, peach and citrus flavours, along with vibrant acidity and persistent mousse.

FOOD STYLING BY LINDSAY GUSCOTT; PROP STYLING BY WILLIAM SCOTT CHRISTY

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TRAVEL 2026 ————————