TASTE_Summer2023

Rye Whisky & Grilled Steak

While Canada as a whole is known internationally for exceptional rye whisky, Alberta is also known globally for producing high-quality beef. In the wine world, there is a food pairing adage that notes “what grows together, goes together.” This appears to hold true with Reifel Rye and grilled steaks. First released in 2022 by Alberta Distillers, Reifel Rye uses over 90 percent rye in its mash bill, giving it peppery and earthy notes. In addition, a small portion of sherry is blended into this whisky, adding dried fruit and caramel notes to this expression. This rich, multi-layered rye elevates the flavour of well-seasoned, fattier cuts of steak such as a New York strip or porterhouse. Think of it like a more versatile au jus that can also be used for cocktails. Tequila & Agave-Lime- Glazed Chicken Wings Reposado, añejo and extra añejo tequilas are aged in wooden barrels, which mellow out the mouthfeel and impart caramel and baking spice notes (similar to bourbon). However, blanco or silver tequilas are largely unaged, leaving a young and zesty flavour profile that holds up to deep-fried and/or fatty foods and is ideal for citrus-laden dishes. If you’ve ever tried a Tommy’s Margarita before, you will know that tequila works wonderfully with lime and agave nectar, and likewise, a Margarita-inspired chicken wing glaze creates a delightful pairing combination for blanco tequila. Casamigos Blanco, in particular, possesses a unique balance between freshly cut grass, citrus and peppery spice with a distinctive vanilla note that is different from most other blanco tequilas. While the green, citrus and spiced notes of this tequila are complementary to an agave-lime glaze, the vanilla adds an interesting contrast that piques the palate.

Agave Lime Barbecue Chicken Wings

pairs with Agave Lime Barbecue Chicken Wings

pairs with Grilled Steak

REIFEL RYE CANADIAN RYE WHISKY

CASAMIGOS BLANCO TEQUILA Mexico $83.99 438960 Expect notes of papaya, guava, creamy vanilla and a hint of coconut on the nose in this light and fruit-driven tequila. On the palate, vanilla and grapefruit are dominant. It’s a must-try for a Margarita or Paloma.

Canada $43.99 250013 Notes of banana bread pudding, caramel and burnt sugar are subtle on the nose in this high‑rye Canadian Whisky. Crème brûlée and dark-chocolate- dipped pears are contrasted by zesty baking spices on the palate with a long, lingering finish.

52

Powered by