E TC E TE R A . . . Sipski
While the global pandemic has shattered a number of conventions, enjoying a glass of wine or can of beer has got a little easier. Sipski (the wine glass holder) easily attaches to a smooth surface, such as by the bath or on a mirror, and holds it securely in reach. Best to use in the bath (with an acrylic glass if possible) with your favourite white, red or bubble. The companion Sudski holds a cool can of suds handy so you can finish shaving and still have a brew. Available at Indigo Books, and some kitchenware retailers. $20.
The Artisanal Kitchen Perfect Homemade Ice Cream
The Best Make-It-Yourself Ice Creams, Sorbets, Sundaes, and Other Desserts, by Jeni Britton Bauer, Artisan. If you spend ages deciding which flavour you want in the ice cream parlour, you’re going to be spoiled for choice with this pint-size book, chock full of ideas you may never have considered – like Juniper & Lemon Curd Ice Cream, and Blue Cheese Graham Cracker Ice Cream… or maybe try Bergamot Frozen Yogurt and delicioussounding, Riesling-Poached Pear Sorbet! $12. Secco Drink Infusion
We’ve really enjoyed trying these sachets of freeze dried fruit and spices, they’re super simple and can be used with any spirit or soft drinks too. The pack includes two each of four flavours: Spiced Pomegranate with star anise, butterfly pea flowers and cardamom; Pepper Berry with strawberry, blueberry and peppercorns; Raspberry Rose Hibiscus, and Ginger Lime. Just leave to infuse in your gin for a few minutes for a tasty and beautiful cocktail! At willowpark.net and fine liquor stores, $20. Boxxle Premium Wine Dispenser
It’s well known that boxed wine (or bagin-a-box) is a superior format for wine. It minimizes the aging of open wine, and can also reduce the “footprint” of wine packaging. Enter the Boxxle. Not only can you transfer your favourite boxed wine into this stylish dispenser, but using the (included) dispensing bags, you can fill it with your bottled favourites for gradual enjoyment. Perfect for… slow drinkers, and it works very well indeed at keeping your supply fresh. amazon.ca, $156. 48 Culinaire | July/August 2020
Tapping The West
How Alberta’s Craft Beer Industry Bubbled Out Of An Economy Gone Flat, by Scott Messenger, Touchwood Editions. Tapping The West starts with Messenger and two friends, all local craft beer fans, embarking on a journey from Edmonton to explore as many breweries in Calgary as possible in one night. But it’s so much more than that, and over the next 268 pages he takes us on a much longer journey from Alberta’s beer pioneers to almost present day – and it’s a great read. We couldn’t put it down! $23.
Joe Beef Butcher’s Blend
Joe Beef is consistently in the top 100 restaurants in Canada (number 3 this year!), and while we can’t imagine dining there any time soon, we can recreate the experience at home with the first product they developed in their line of seasonings, and still the most popular - Butcher’s Blend. If you’re a fan of Montreal smoked meat, then you’ll love this 100 percent natural rub for sprinkling on your steaks, burgers and even in your chilli. Widely available, 200 g $9-$12.
