Holiday 2023 | modernmississauga.com
deck the halls SUPPORT LOCAL ARTS
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
FOOD & DRINK
LIFESTYLE
WINTER DRIVING
MOTORING
TRAVEL
Shopping. Dining. Services.
Celebrate the Holidays,
MAKE A GIFT TODAY
Help raise $2,000,000 by January 8 to provide food for 2,000,000 meals Last year, over 35,000 residents visited food banks in Mississauga that’s 5% of the city’s population. Join Food Banks Mississauga’s Holiday Drive and help raise much-needed funds to provide healthy and appropriate food for neighbours living with food insecurity in your community.
DONATE NOW: foodbanksmississauga.ca /holiday
OWNER/PUBLISHER/EDITOR Jay Kana
ART DIRECTOR Elizabeth Wise (Wise Idea)
CONTRIBUTORS Natalie Hart Anna Hobbs Jay Kana John Murray Lewis Kavita Panchoo Ryan Tobin Steph Wallcraft
ADVERTISING SALES sales@modernmississauga.com 416.629.5295
FOR ALL OTHER INQUIRIES: email: info@modernmississauga.com web: modernmississauga.com instagram: @modernmississauga youtube: modern mississauga media facebook: modernmississauga linkedin: modern mississauga media twitter: @mdrnmississauga tiktok: @modernmississauga
All images are licenced under Creative Commons Zero unless otherwise indicated. Cover Photo: Freestocks on Unsplash Table of Contents Photo: Yulian Karadzhov on Unsplash © 2023 Modern Mississauga Media Ltd. All rights reserved.
8
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
in this
ISSUE HOLIDAY 2023
ARTS Mississauga Symphony Orchestra The Dreamboats Festival of Trees TRAVEL Winter Fun In Quebec City Winter Road Trip Prep MOTORING 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e vs 2024 BMW X5 50e 2024 Mazda 3 Sport 2024 BMW i5 M60 2024 Kia EV9 FEATURE Simple Ways To Support Local This Christmas & Beyond HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE LIFESTYLE John Lewis’ Jingle Jumble Malton Minutes Planning Ahead For 2024 FOOD & DRINK Unboxing boxed wine
14 24 28 30 32 46 52
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
9
m o d ern M I SSI SSAU GA
Editor's Letter Welcome to the festive Holiday issue of Modern Mississauga!
It’s been quite the year here; we’ve expanded with the introduction of Modern Traveller, we’ve taken a careful look at what the future holds for the city’s premiere media company and will have news to share in the coming weeks, and overall, it’s been a very successful year. Even with Bill C-18 making things challenging for local media outlets across the country, we’ve taken it as a way to become stronger and a smarter resource for our community. The team is excited to share this issue with you and ask that you share it within your networks to help support our local businesses. With some uncertainty on several fronts looming in 2024, supporting each other personally and professionally will carry additional weight. In fact, that’s what our feature article addresses. Liz and I thank you for the continued support since 2015 and are excited for what the future holds for Modern Mississauga Media. However you celebrate the season, we warmly wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and only the best in 2024. Warmly, festively and with appreciation,
JAY & LIZ
10 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
Click here & bookmark this post for all your Christmas and Holiday events in Mississauga for 2023.
We take your safety very seriously here at The Apricot Tree Cafe!
ate CertifiAcN AIR HEPA
CLE
t Tree
Aprico Aer
h ipped wit S-400 equ oex IRI
filter HEPA certified
of Busin Director glidze/ ment Develop esenter itle of Pr Name/T
Erik Go
ess
Cafe
99. rated at
0.3 ciency at 99% effi
micron.
2021 11/12/ Date
Which is why we've invested in state of the art HEPA filters to keep our valued guests as safe as possible. We invite you to book and enjoy your Holiday parties and events with us, and we look forward to welcoming you with delicious food and drink in a safe environment.
1900 Dundas Street West, Mississauga, Ontario (905) 855-1470 | apricottreecafe.com
Making travel
APPROACHABLE ATTAINABLE & ASPIRATIONAL
T R AV E L L E R moderntraveller.ca
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
15
16 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
m od e r n ARTS
THE MISSISSAUGA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA by ryan tobin | photo by dave o’donnell photography The Mississauga Symphony’s 2023/24 season is off to a fantastic start with months of incredible concerts still to come. From classical masterworks, to fully staged opera, to your favourite pop music in symphonic form, the MSO will offer stunning performances for all musical tastes. On December 16, the MSO’s wildly popular, family-oriented Christmas concert returns to Hammerson Hall to ignite the holiday spirit in everyone. This year, the MSO will offer two versions of A Merry Little Christmas – a one-hour matinée for young children (all tickets only $25), and a full evening concert for all-ages. On February 8 and 10, the MSO returns to the world of opera with a fully staged production of Puccini’s, Tosca. Set in Rome during the Napoleonic era, Tosca tells the story of love, passion, rebellion, and tragedy. Zealous painter Cavaradossi and passionate singer Tosca are deeply in love. When Cavaradossi hides escaped political prisoner Angelotti from the villainous chief of police Scarpia, a tragic conflict unfurls. Caught between loyalty to her rebel lover and Scarpia’s web of deceit, Tosca must take matters into her own hands – but no one is guaranteed to get out alive. Join the MSO on March 31 for a rare matinée performance as we celebrate the anniversary of three iconic works.
Masterwork Celebrations will honour Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue (100th), Mozart’s Symphony No. 29 (250th) and Sibelius’ Symphony No. 7 (100th). On April 27, Hammerson Hall will be rocking as the MSO pay tribute to the biggest names in popular music. From The Beatles to Queen, Metallica to Michael Jackson, Symphonic Pops will feature your favourite pop music in symphonic form. Complimenting the orchestra will be an all-star band comprised of some of Canada’s finest musicians, and a roster of fantastic soloists. The MSO concludes a thrilling season on May 25 with An Alpine Symphony – one of the most monumental works in the symphonic repertoire. A symphonic poem composed by Richard Strauss, An Alpine Symphony is an ambitious and technically demanding sonic expedition through the Alpine landscape, capturing the grandeur and beauty of nature. Rarely performed, An Alpine Symphony is a musical experience that is not to be missed. Regularly priced tickets start at $40. Special pricing is available for seniors, families, youth (15-26), and groups of 10 or more. Complimentary underground parking is included with every ticket purchase. Visit: mississaugasymphony.ca
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
17
February 16, 7:30pm Get ready to twist, shout, and relive the glory days of rock n' roll livingartscentre.ca
m od e r n ARTS
The Dreamboats by jay kana
LIVE AT THE LIVING ARTS CENTRE ON FEBRUARY 16TH, 2024 Mississauga’s favourite quartet, The Dreamboats, are set to bring their highenergy, toe-tapping engaging performance back to their hometown. They’re leading the revival of the golden days of rock and roll on February 16th, 2024 at Mississauga’s premier live music venue, The Living Arts Centre. Founder, lead singer and guitarist, Ritchie Hummins, born and raised in Mississauga, says “I feel like this city is filled with opportunities and if there’s anything you wanted to do in the arts community, being
here and being influenced by so many amazing artists and people is definitely a benefit to anyone.” WHY SHOULD YOU ATTEND THEIR UPCOMING PERFORMANCE? Hummins says “we put on an awesome show with a band of brothers all from Mississauga! You can expect zany antics, cool dance moves, awesome three-part harmonies, and overall, we have an entertaining show full of songs that you
know and love and that you’ll be singing along with.” Their dedication to their craft has taken them around the world and helped them continuously grow as musicians, people and professionals. Even though they’ve got a zip code in California, Hummins says with pride and sincerity “Mississauga will forever be my home, no matter where I am.” Click here to get your tickets!
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
19
The Modern Mississauga team warmly wishes you and yours a very
Merry Christmas & all the best for 2024!
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
23
m o d ern T R AV E L
QUÉBEC CITY:
A WINTER ADVENTURE by jay kana | photo by quebec-cite
There are so many reasons to experience Québec City during winter, from the famed German Christmas Market to walking the majestic streets of Old Québec, to exciting outdoor adventures. Here’s a list of 9 wonderful ways to experience the famous Québec City in winter. 24 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
GERMAN CHRISTMAS MARKET Old Québec is home to the world-renowned German Christmas Market, enveloping it with music, lights, food, drink and fu every weekend until Christmas. Find a variety of local gifts and treats in the famous wooden stalls. Enjoy nearly 100 vendors at this traditional European Christmas market and experience the best of the festive season. QUÉBEC WINTER CARNIVAL Happening from January 25 to February 11, 2024, the famous Québec Winter Carnival is home to fun and activities for everyone from ice sculptures, games, musical performances, sporting events, the evening parade and of course, the one and only Bonhomme Carnaval. EXPERIENCE THE HÔTEL DE GLACE Having stayed at the Hôtel de Glace, I highly recommend doing it at least once for the experience. It’s the only one in North America and if you don’t want to spend the night, you can take a tour through it. WALK THROUGH OLD QUÉBEC Within these17th century walls houses Old Québec’s cobblestone streets, architecture and charm. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is enjoyed either on your own or via a guided tour. THE FAIRMONT LE CHÂTEAU FRONTENAC One of the most photographed hotels in the world is here in Quebec City. With stunning views of the St.Lawrence River, the hotel is steeped in history, bathed in beautiful architecture and is absolutely worth taking a tour of at the least.
THE FABULOUS FOOD & DRINK SCENE Earning a top-six finish in the 2023 Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards, the culinary scene in Quebec is impressive. Whether you’re looking for traditional poutine, crêpes, and or tourtière, or if you want something a little different, Québec City has you covered. Add in the worldfamous cheeses, plus the nearly 40 craft breweries and it’s easy to see why this is a gastronomic haven. SUPERB SKIING Enjoy the outdoors galore with with three superb familyfriendly skiing options close by. Mont-Sainte-Anne, Stoneham, and Le Relais are the closest, with Massif de Charlevoix being a touch further away but also worth visiting. EXPLORE PARC NATIONAL DE LA JACQUES-CARTIER A short drive from the core brings you to this wondrous National Park where you can cross-country ski, snowshoe, fat bike, hike, and backcountry ski. Want more? Spend the night in a quaint wood cabin and gaze upon the brilliantly lit stars. OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Bundle up and have some outdoor fun! Strap your skates on for outdoor ice skating, tackle the toboggan run at Dufferin Terrace, ski, snowboard at one of the aforementioned ski hills. Want to relax via a Nordic Spa? Rejuvenate yourself at Strøm Spa and or Sky Spa. quebec-cite.com
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
25
m o d ern T R AV E L
PREPARE YOUR CAR FOR
W INT ER
Great road trips don’t need to take a back seat once the snow flies and remember that safe winter driving does require some preparation. Taking these key steps to get your car ready for winter road trips can help keep your travel safe and stressfree. Here’s a checklist with seven steps to follow to get your car ready for winter road trips to help get you and your passengers safely to your destination, even in bad weather.
INSTALL W INT ER T IRES
in Canada, winter tires are essential! Winter tires are mandatory in Quebec and most of British Columbia, and are made from a different rubber compound compared to summer tires. You’ll have better grip in snow/ice/slush/sleet helping keep you and others safer on the roads.
CHANGE YOUR OIL
Regular oil changes are essential to keep your engine running smoothly. Clean oil helps optimize your engines performance and quite literally, is the lifeblood of your engine. Newer oil is
26 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
more viscous, meaning it flows better, which is important to help keep your engine moving in colder weather. We ask George from Toronto Mobile Mechanics to take care of this for us every fall at the same time as our winter tire change. Easily find the manufacturer’s recommendation for your car in the owner’s manual.
REP LACE YOUR W INDSHIELD W IP ERS
Over time, the rubber strip on your wiper blade becomes weathered, pitted, and stiff, resulting in streaking and make the blades ineffective. Most modern vehicles use a standard clip for wiper blades, and new blades typically cost $30 or less each. This a quick and easy job to take care of on your own. Find the correct sizes for your car’s make and model year online or at your favourite auto parts store.
USE W INT ER WASHER FLUID
There are different formulations for windshield washer fluid. “Summer” fluid excels at removing stuck-on bugs and grime from your glass. “Winter” fluid contains antifreeze, which helps melt snow and ice and makes them easier to remove. Clearly seeing always what’s ahead if you is crucial to safe winter driving.
R R0AD T RIP S by steph wallcraft | photos by steph wallcraft
CLEAN THE INSIDE OF YOUR W INDOWS
Keeping the outside of your windows clean is important and a clean inside is equally important. Grime, dust and dirt can collect and create a film on the inside of your car’s windows and you may not notice until you’re trying to defrost on a cold day and it takes longer for the inside of the glass to clear up. Why does this happen? When there’s dirt on the inside of the glass, the moisture in the air has something to cling to for longer. By cleaning the inside of your windshield, you’ll see a noticeable improvement in how quickly the fog will clear. A simple glass cleaner and a microfibre cloth does the trick.
CLEAN OR REP LACE YOUR W INT ER FLOOR MATS
Often overlooked, this is also important. As you and your passengers are getting into your vehicle with wet and salt-covered winter boots, the upholstery in summer floor mats won’t stand a chance. Invest in a set of high quality set of rubber floor mats to keep dirt and salt from getting ground into your upholstery. Also, winter floor mats can be cleaned easily by hosing them down. It both keeps your carpets looking good and helps retain more of your car’s value.
CREAT E A W INT ER EMERGENCY KIT
Prepared for unplanned emergencies that can befall us when we venture out onto the roads in winter weather. Keeping a winter emergency kit in your car means you’ll have extra winter accessories and blankets to stay warm, spare food and water in case you get stranded, and supplies to get yourself unstuck from a ditch or restarted if your battery dies. Get your car ready for winter by putting together a winter survival kit consisting of: • Snow brush with ice scraper • Jumper cables battery booster kit • Extra washer fluid • Sand, salt, folding shovel • Spare toque and gloves • Blankets • Candle, coffee can, waterproof matches, lighter • Bottled water in an insulated bag • Non perishable food For more safe driving tips and road trip adventures and ideas, visit roadtripper.ca
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
27
m o d ern M OTO R I N G
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e vs 2024 BMW X5 50e
2024 BMW i5 M60
28 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
mod e r n MOTO R I NG
2024 Mazda 3 Sport
2024 Kia EV9
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023 29
m o d ern FE AT U R E
8 WAY
SUPPORT
this christma
Let’s skip the wordy intro and get straight to the eight.
by jay kana | photos by tamanna rumee INVEST IN LOCAL GIFT CARDS Buying gift cards from local businesses helps them today by increasing their cash flow, which is the lifeblood for all businesses. It also boosts their chances of being here later. ASK, ASK, ASK Simply asking your family, friends, colleagues and even an online social media community for local recommendations is a smart and easy way to expand your local horizons. SHARE THE GOOD NEWS Telling your family and friends via phone call, in person or text about some or all of your favourite local businesses a smart way to endorse them and potentially help that business get new customers. The exponential effect could be far reaching, and it can start with you.
30 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
YS TO
T LOCAL
as & beyond GET SOCIAL Take the above and apply it to these businesses social media pages. As potential customers research a new small businesses, reading reviews and reviewing their social accounts can be highly influential. Write a personalized review, sign up for their newsletter, follow/like their social pages (every “like” counts) and consider putting up a post on your social channels to let your network know about your positive experiences. SKIP THE APPS Apps take up to a gross 30% in fees from restaurants, so skip the apps as much as possible, if not entirely, and order and pick up directly. Some may do their own deliveries independent from those pesky apps. UTILIZE YOUR SOCIAL PLATFORMS It’s one thing to support our local businesses social media pages and since you’re on it, utilize your own social platforms to spread the word. Whether it’s a picture or video about your excellent experience or “I finally found this cool item
at a local shop,” leverage your network to boost our valued small business community. HAVE A COUPLE OF WEEKLY MEALS FROM LOCAL RESTAURANTS We eat an average of 21 meals a week (3 meals a day x 7 days a week) so by picking a sustainable number of those meals to be taken care of by ordering locally, you're supporting our restaurant community. Also, using your own cutlery, napkins and condiments helps save costs for them, and if enough of us make small contributions, they’ll amount to a large one. LOCAL DOLLARS MAKE LOCAL SENSE By keeping dollars in the local business economy, more of it stays here, where it’s needed. We’ve already lost so many local businesses since 2020; let’s hope to reduce if not eliminate the number of small business closures this Christmas and beyond.
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
31
32 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023 33
m o d ern G I F T G U I D E
t f i g 34 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
e d i u g
3 2 0 2
For the book lover, food enthusiast, wine and whisky drinker, and those who want convenience around their home, we've got the best gifts for them in our 2023 Gift Guide. C O N T I N U E D . . . MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023 35
m o d ern G I F T G U I D E
10 BEST BOOKS #10
#9
Here are Indigo’s highly anticipated Best Books of the Year list for 2023, proudly showcasing Canadian and Indigenous talent and ten incredible novels – each a testament to exceptional storytelling in a unique way. Whether it's an unputdownable thriller, a heartwarming romance or a profound work of nonfiction – every reader can find something they’ll enjoy, making shopping for the holiday season easier than ever. Indigo is so confident in its Best Books of the Year that it has deemed the top 10 novels "Guaranteed Reads," meaning if you read it and don't love it, you can return it! This list celebrates the diverse voices behind the talented authors who brought these stories to life. This year, the list features four Canadian authors, three Indigenous authors and two Asian-American authors. #10 The Defector - Chris Hadfield For Chris Hadfield’s second heartstopping thriller, we move from Space to
36 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
#8
#7
another rich and exciting part of Chris’s CV: his time as a top test pilot in both the US Air Force and the US Navy, and as an RCAF fighter pilot intercepting armed Soviet bombers in North American airspace. Full of insider detail, excitement and political intrigue drawn from real events, The Defector brings us the nerve-shredding rush of aerial combat, as told by one of the world's top fighter pilots. #9 Life in Two Worlds: A Coach's Journey from the Reserve to the NHL and Back - Ted Nolan Life in Two Worlds chronicles those controversial years in Buffalo—and recounts how being shut out from the NHL left Ted frustrated, angry, and so vulnerable he almost destroyed his own life. It also tells of Ted’s inspiring recovery and his eventual return to a job he loved. But Life in Two Worlds is more than a story of succeeding against the odds. It’s an exploration of how a beloved sport
#6
can harbour subtle but devastating racism, of how a person can find purpose when opportunity and choice are stripped away, and of how focusing on what really matters can bring two worlds together. #8 The Leftover Woman: A Novel - Jean Kwok The Leftover Woman finds these two unforgettable women on a shocking collision course. Twisting and suspenseful and surprisingly poignant, it's a profound exploration of identity and belonging, motherhood and family. It is a story of two women in a divided city—separated by severe economic and cultural differences yet bound by a deep emotional connection to a child. #7 Happy Place - Emily Henry A couple who broke up months ago pretend to still be together for their annual weeklong vacation with their best friends in this
#
Presented in partnership with Indigo
OF THE YEAR
#5
#4
#3
glittering and wise new novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Emily Henry. #6 Yellowface: A Novel - R. F Kuang With its totally immersive first-person voice, Yellowface grapples with questions of diversity, racism, and cultural appropriation, as well as the terrifying alienation of social media. R.F. Kuang’s novel is timely, razorsharp, and eminently readable. #5 The Art Thief: A True Story of Love, Crime, and a Dangerous Obsession - Michael Finkel In this spellbinding portrait of obsession and flawed genius, the best-selling author of The Stranger in the Woods brings us into Breitwieser’s strange world—unlike most thieves, he never stole for money, keeping all his treasures in a single room where he could admire them. This is a riveting story of art, crime, love, and an insatiable hunger to possess beauty at any cost.
#2
#4 Moon of the Turning Leaves - Waubgeshig Rice Waubgeshig Rice’s exhilarating return to the world first explored in Moon of the Crusted Snow is a brooding story of survival, resilience, Indigenous identity, and rebirth. #3 Becoming a Matriarch - Helen Knott Woven into the pages are themes of mourning, sobriety through loss, and generational dreaming. Becoming a Matriarch is charted with poetic insights, sass, humour, and heart, taking the reader over the rivers and mountains of Dane Zaa territory in Northeastern British Columbia, along the cobbled streets of Antigua, Guatemala, and straight to the heart of what matriarchy truly means. This is a journey through pain, on the way to becoming. #2 Fourth Wing - Rebecca Yarros Enter the brutal and elite world of a war college for dragon riders from New York
#1 Times bestselling author Rebecca Yarros Twenty-year-old Violet Sorrengail was supposed to enter the Scribe Quadrant, living a quiet life among books and history. Now, the commanding general—also known as her tough-as-talons mother—has ordered Violet to join the hundreds of candidates striving to become the elite of Navarre: dragon riders. Friends, enemies, lovers. Everyone at Basgiath War College has an agenda— because once you enter, there are only two ways out: graduate or die. #1 Hello Beautiful: A Novel - Ann Napolitano An exquisite homage to Louisa May Alcott’s timeless classic, Little Women, Hello Beautiful is a profoundly moving portrait of what is possible when we choose to love someone not in spite of who they are, but because of it.
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
37
m o d ern G I F T G U I D E
BOOKS FOR
Cooks by anna hobbs
38 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
Looking for the perfect gift for anyone who loves to cook? Or someone who keeps on talking about learning how? Here’s a something-for-everyone selection of this year’s best – cookbooks you’ll love to give. Or add to your Santa wish list. Worth noting – the emphasis this year is on quick and easy. In Mary’s Kitchen In her latest book, Canada’s culinary sweetheart, Mary Berg, host of Mary Makes It Easy, promises to take the stress out of mealtime prep. 100 all new recipes look easy because they are. Dubbed “the millennial Ina Garten,” Mary is all about simple ingredients, straightforward techniques and big flavours. These stress-free recipes come from her home kitchen in Toronto. Penguin Random House $35 Farmhouse Vegetables Inspired by the bounty of his farm at the Inn at Bay Fortune, Prince Edward Island and his award-winning restaurant, Fireworks, Michael Smith’s latest cookbook is a sure bet to become his twelfth best-seller. This one – a collection of irresistible recipes for vegetable-forward dishes or full vegetarian meals. You’ll marvel at the diversity of his innovative approach – proof that eating plants is more than just good for us. Penguin Random House $40 Multicooker Everything Chef Ricardo Larrivée, another bestselling Canadian cookbook author, has created a collection of 70 recipes that are perfect for a pressure cooker, multi-cooker or Instant Pot. “From cooking faster, enhancing flavour and even saving energy – there’s almost nothing the multi-cooker can’t do,” he says. Think dinner in no-time. Penguin Random House $30 Seafood Simple For three decades, New York’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Bernadin, has earned a reputation as one of the finest seafood restaurants in the world. Its legendary chef, Eric Ripert, has created the definitive seafood guide featuring 85 recipes, step-by-step techniques along with gorgeous photography. Ripert recognizes many home cooks are intimidated preparing fish. His goal? To prove taking seafood “from daunting to rewarding can be a fun adventure.” Random House $45 The Chutney Life Palak Patel, a social media influencer, home cook and founder of the popular lifestyle blog, The Chutney Life, lives in the US. Her debut book features recipes influenced by her Indian heritage. She breaks down the intricacies of Indian cooking for 100 easy-tomake recipes for all home cooks. A celebration of the food she grew up eating, as well as anecdotes about the loving hands that made the food. Patel believes that “magic happens when flavours transcend continents and cultures.” Canadian Manda $44
Fraiche Food Fuller Hearts Canadian cousins Jillian Harris and Tori Wesszer’s latest book features over 135 wholesome, feel-good recipes that focus on whole foods for families to enjoy every day. Healthy, often plant-based classics get a modern twist. The cousins come from a large, close-knit family that loves to enjoy wholesome meals together. Many of the recipes were inspired by their moms and granny and the smart hacks they used to whip up memorable dishes. Penguin Random House $45 Jacques Pépin Cooking My Way One of the food world’s living legends, Jacques Pépin’s career spans eight decades. In addition to working in prestigious, high-end restaurants in Europe and New York, writing some 30 cookbooks and starring with Julia Child on TV, he loves cooking at home. He shares his tips on cooking at home with 150 recipes that save time, money and effort. Beautifully illustrated with colourful paintings by the chef himself. Harper Collins $46.50 Snacking Bakes – Simple recipes for cookies, bars, brownies, cakes and more According to this food stylist, recipe developer and author, a ‘snacking bake’ is “a simple recipe that can mostly be made with one bowl in an hour.” Here’s the book to cater to anyone with a sweet tooth. A sequel to her best seller, Snacking Cakes. Arefi relies on big flavour ingredients such as malted milk powder and instant espresso and liquid fats (think oil or melted butter) that don’t require an electric mixer to blend. Clarkson Potter $34 Pasta Every Day Meryl Feinstein has years of experience helping thousands of cooks discover the joy of homemade pasta. She may have written the world’s easiest-to-follow guide to making pasta doughs, shapes, fillings and sauces. Included are step-by-step photos and videos (accessible via QR code) that illustrate how to make every shape. Plus modern takes on classics, gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options. Little, Brown & Company $44 Start Here For anyone who wants to brush up on the basics or start at square one and go the distance as a cook, look no further. Think of this as culinary school in a 500+ pages. It’s where to learn fundamental techniques, get great recipes and gain a deep understanding of cooking to become creative in the kitchen. Author/teacher Sohla El-Waylly who trained at the Culinary Institute of America, is not only a culinary teacher, but a writer and video producer. Alfred A, Knopf $60
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023 39
E H T GIVE
A E T F O IFT
G
Warm up with our delightful tea blends! From peppermint twist to German gingerbread, our seasonal blends taste like Christmas in a cup. And with our gold-trimmed packaging, they make the perfect stocking stuffers for all the tea lovers on your list. Looking for something a little more unique? Our range of tea blends are sure to impress even the pickiest of tea connoisseurs. Plus, our tea subscription will be a monthly surprise for the tea enthusiast in your life. Shop now and give the gift of warmth this holiday season.
VANITEA BLENDS https://vaniteablends.ca 40 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
365-228-4445 | vaniteablends@g
DRINK IDEAS
HOLIDAY
Orange-pineapple mocktail
4 OUNCES ORANGE PINEAPPLE INFUSION (DRIED PINEAPPLE, HIBISCUS, ROSEHIP, ORANGE, APPLE, PAPAYA)
1 OUNCE GRENADINE 4 OUNCES GINGER ALE BLUEBERRIES, BLACKBERRIES AND STRAWBERRIES TO GARNISH
Mulled wine cocktail 2 OUNCES MULLED WINE TEA INFUSION
Steep 1 perfect spoon of Orange-pineapple in 8 oz of boiled water for 10 min. Allow this to achieve room temp. Use 4oz of the orange pineapple infusion and add grenadine and ginger ale. Garnish with berries and serve chilled.
(BLACK TEA, CLOVES, SAFFLOWER PETALS)
1/2 TSP VANILLA BEAN SYRUP 2 OUNCES CABERNET SAUVIGNON 1 OUNCE BLOOD ORANGE ITALIAN SODA ORANGE SLICE AND CINNAMON STICK TO GARNISH Steep 1 perfect spoon of Mulled Wine tea for 5-7 min. Combine 2 oz of the mulled wine tea infusion to 2 oz of Cabernet Sauvignon, 1 oz of blood orange Italian soda, and 1/2 tsp of vanilla bean syrup. Garnish with orange slices and a cinnamon stick for an extra festive touch. Serve chilled.
gmail.com | Mississauga, Ontario
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
41
m o d ern G I F T G U I D E
this... Unwrap the magic of the season with these delightful and useful products from the Hamilton Beach family of brands. Elevate your gift-giving game with these must-have kitchen essentials. HAMILTON BEACH® FLEXBREW® TRIO COFFEE MAKER Indulge in the holiday spirit with the delightful versatility of the FlexBrew Trio Coffee Maker, offering three ways to brew this festive season. Warm up with a single cup in about 90 seconds, with single-serve pods or ground coffee in a cup or travel mug. Gather loved ones and brew a full 12-cup carafe of ground coffee for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the option to prep wake-up ready coffee with the Easy-Touch programming will make Christmas morning a breeze. HAMILTON BEACH STAINLESS STEEL ELECTRIC KETTLE Enjoy the convenience of making a quick, hot cup of tea, instant coffee, French press or hot cocoa without a minimal wait with this 1500 watt kitchen staple. Quickly heat up to 1.7 L of water that’s also ideal for a bowl of ramen, instant oatmeal, or instant grits. The cordless kettle lifts off the base to serve hot water at the tabletop or anywhere you're serving hot beverages. It features an LED light ring that shows you at a glance when the water heats up and the power is on. It has a durable, BPA-free, food-grade stainless steel interior for long-lasting performance. CLOROX™ 320 LARGE ROOM AIR PURIFIER Breathe easy prepping and hosting your holiday gathering with clean, fresh air. The Large Room Air Purifier is
42 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
designed to protect from allergens, pet dander, and more. This powerful purifier not only captures 99.97% of allergens and particulates but also offers extra peace of mind by trapping 99.9% of viruses and bacteria in the air. With its 3-stage 360° filter system, including a True HEPA filter, this purifier works around the clock for a safer environment. One less thing to worry about this holiday season. BRITA HUB™ INSTANT POWERFUL COUNTERTOP WATER FILTRATION Give the gift of “quench” and convenience with the new Brita Hub Instant Powerful Countertop Water Filtration device - Brita’s best filter ever. Providing superior hydration, this countertop water filtration machine allows the whole family to enjoy healthier, great-tasting water with the push of a button. With a modern, sleek design, it elevates the look of any kitchen while helping fight against plastic waste, replacing 1800 singleuse plastic water bottles a year. To find your new superb small kitchen appliances, visit hamiltonbeach.ca
Ring in the holiday season with Cuisipro! Creating festive treats is oh-so easy with their bakeware and baking tools, which are guaranteed to take your holiday baking to new heights. cuisipro.com BAKING SHEETS Make this holiday season a celebration of culinary mastery with our Baking Sheets, the reliable companions that ensure your dishes shine. Available in three convenient sizes (small, medium and large), they are designed with unparalleled durability, featuring the magic of premium non-stick technology that ensures your culinary creations effortlessly glide from the pan to the plate. These sheets are your perfect companions for both sweet and savoury delights, promising culinary excellence for your holiday cooking. MUFFIN TIN The Cuisipro Muffin Tin is the secret ingredient for creating holiday magic in the kitchen. Featuring two premium layers of non-stick coating, it ensures that your cherished holiday muffins and treats gracefully transition from pan to plate, leaving behind any worries of sticking. It's the perfect partner for crafting both sweet and savoury holiday treats, making your seasonal baking and cooking endeavors a true delight. STAINLESS STEEL MIXING BOWLS Meet the ultimate partner in the kitchen this holiday season: the Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl Set. This set includes three different sizes that cater to a wide range of culinary needs, whether you're whipping up a batch of holiday cookies or preparing a savoury feast for your loved ones. With their high sides, these bowls are your trusted defense against messy splatters during mixing, ensuring a tidier and more enjoyable cooking experience. To simplify your measuring process, each bowl features capacity markings on the exterior, eliminating the need for additional measuring cups and making your holiday preparations more efficient. STAINLESS STEEL MEASURING SPOONS Recommended by professionals, the Cuisipro Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons will make your holiday baking endeavours a breeze. Crafted with high-quality stainless steel, these spoons are not only durable, but they also offer precise measurements that are essential for kitchen perfection. The gently curved handles are designed for your comfort, allowing the spoons to sit securely on the counter without the risk of tipping over amidst the holiday hustle and bustle. When your baking marathon is over, the nested set conveniently comes with a charming storage clip, ensuring they stay together and are ready for the next batch of delightful holiday creations.
...& that MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
43
around the world
m o d ern G I F T G U I D E
ONTARIO
For those on your list who appreciate buying made-in-Ontario, one of these wines is sure to be a hit. The Inniskillin nonvintage Late Autumn Riesling ($15.95, LCBO #219543 or at Wine Rack) is a reliable crowd-pleaser. It’s off-dry with wellrounded notes of citrus and stewed pear. This would be a great choice if you’re not sure of your recipient’s wine tastes. For a red wine lover, try the Jackson-Triggs 2019 Grand Reserve Red Meritage ($32.95 at Wine Rack). Meritage is the Ontario term for a Bordeaux-style blend using Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. This example was barrel-aged for 15 months and exhibits cherry and mocha flavours with cassis undertones, all the right notes for the holidays. And when it’s time to celebrate, pop the cork on a bottle of Kew Vineyards 2017 Barrel-aged Blanc de Blancs ($29.95, available at the winery). Kew is widely recognized as one of Ontario’s top sparkling wine producers, and this golden and effervescent bubbly—with apple and toasted hazelnut aromas and flavours of citrus and ripe pear—is worthy of your finest occasions.
ITALY
Add a little gusto to your holiday giving with these wines from Ruffino. Each is an exceptional example of the style it represents. The Ruffino Chianti Classico Riserva Ducale ($30.05, LCBO #45195) is a benchmark example of a denominazione di origine controllata e garantita, or DOCG, Tuscan red wine. Expect notes of tart cherry, plum, and fragrant cedar. For someone who loves a trendy cocktail, go for the Ruffino Prosecco ($21.95, LCBO # 467811). This is an essential component of an Aperol spritz, or it can be enjoyed on its own for its pear, melon, and honey flavours. Buon Natale!
CALIFORNIA
The Prisoner Red Blend was inspired by the wines first made by the Italian immigrants who originally settled in Napa Valley and is now the most recognized red blend. It incorporates Zinfandel with the interesting mix of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Syrah, and Charbono. Bright aromas of ripe raspberry, vanilla, and coconut give way to flavors of fresh and dried blackberry, pomegranate, and vanilla, which linger harmoniously for a smooth and luscious finish. It’s aged using combination of French and American oak barrels, of which 30% are new.
44 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
WHISKY BUSINESS
GLENFIDDICH 14 YEAR OLD BOURBON BARREL RESERVE This 14-year-old single malt scotch the whiskey features tasting notes of woody spices and ripe summer fruit. Additionally, scents of baked apple, malt and vanilla lead to flavours of caramel, char and baking spice. The finish features a delicious dark chocolate note. As the name states, it’s aged fourteen years in ex-bourbon barrels and then finished off in new charred American oak. Glenfiddich’s Bourbon Barrel 14 is an ideal pairing for a Lavender Gold Rush cocktail, neat or on ice. GLENFIDDICH 15 YEAR OLD SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY SOLERA RESERVE This gem features an approachable yet complex aroma, with sweet heather honey and vanilla fudge combined with rich dark fruits for aroma. Taste-wise, experience layers of sherry oak, marzipan, cinnamon and ginger in this full-bodied whiskey. Enjoy it on ice or
neat. Interestingly, the Solera vats have been kept half full since 1998, and this unique crafting process has produced a memorable product to be enjoyed year round.
GLENFIDDICH ORCHARD EXPERIMENT Evoking crisp autumn flavours that can be enjoyed year round, Glenfiddich Orchard Experiment launched in Canada in 2022, marking the first time a Scotch Whisky has been finished in Somerset Pomona Spirit Casks. It was created in collaboration with the Somerset Brandy Cider Company and draws upon the flavours imparted by Somerset Pomona casks, a spirit made from a secret blend of apple juice and Somerset Cider Brandy, which are married and matured in oak. Tasting notes include an initial burst of ripe orchard fruits on the palate softens and develops into sweet creamy toffee, caramelized apple, and woody spice.
C O N T I N U E D . . . MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
45
m o d ern G I F T G U I D E
C O N T I N U E D . . . GIBSON’S FINEST RARE 12-YEAR-OLD CANADIAN WHISKY If Canadians are looking for an exceptional, homegrown gift this holiday season the Gibson’s Finest Rare is the ideal choice. While most Canadian Whisky is aged for just 3 years, Gibson’s Finest Rare is always aged for 12 years to achieve a sophisticated character, extraordinary smoothness, and outstanding flavour. The sweet and silky taste, balanced with citric bitterness, makes it the perfect whisky for winter sipping. GIBSON’S FINEST STERLING CANADIAN WHISKY The making of Gibson’s Finest® Sterling is a process requiring both patience and uncommon craftsmanship. Master blenders use a unique blend of aged whiskies to create a harmonious, well-balanced Canadian whisky. Masterfully distilled, tenderly aged and blended to perfection. The combination of these aged whiskies results in a superior blend with a unique smooth taste. Gibson’s Finest® Sterling offers consumers a superior quality whisky that appeals to both entry level drinkers as well as everyday connoisseurs. It is creamy with subtle fruity and citrus notes with hints of vanilla, walnut and black pepper.
GRANT’S TRIPLE WOOD 12 BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKY The Grant’s Triple Wood 12 is the perfect gift for your get together crew, with its premium, sleek black and gold bottle, distinctive triangular design and rich, warming notes of honey and spice, makes for a brilliant choice that is best enjoyed together. Grant’s Triple Wood 12 takes a creamy, fruity spirit and is aged in three barrels, each providing a distinctive layer of flavour to the final blend. Refill Bourbon barrels impart brown sugar sweetness, American oak lends subtle vanilla smoothness, and the revered sherry cask dials the quality up a notch, adding a sweet, spicy finish that sets Grant’s Triple Wood 12 apart. Grant’s remains the only blended whisky producer to have its own Stillman (The Maker), Cooper (The Muscle), and Master Blender (The Master) working together in one location. After all, two barrels make it good, the third makes it Grant’s!
...give the gif
46 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
GRANT’S TRIPLE WOOD BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKY Many whiskies take their flavour from just one cask, but Grant’s Triple Wood is matured in three different types of wood: Virgin Oak cask provides spicy robustness, American Oak lends subtle vanilla smoothness and Bourbon refill offers brown sugar sweetness, resulting in a smoother, richer, mellower taste. The Grant’s Triple Wood has vanilla sweetness with malty and light floral fragrances. THE BALVENIE 12 YEAR OLD DOUBLEWOOD SCOTCH WHISKY Debuting in 1993 using a process designed by The Balvenie Distillery's Honorary Ambassador and Former Malt Master David C. Stewart in 1982, now commonly known as "wood finishing," the name reflects the process. The first of two casks is a Whisky Oak and after several years of maturation in these traditional
whisky casks, it mellows the maturating spirit and creates warming layers of vanilla spiciness. Sherry Oak is the second cask, which sees further maturation in European Oak Sherry casks increases complexity, bringing fruity, honeyed depths to the resulting Single Malt. Finally, it's transferred to large oak vessels called 'tuns' for three to four months to allow the whiskies from individual casks to marry. SAILOR JERRY SPICED RUM Nothing says holidays quite like a bold spiced rum. With Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, say aloha to bold and smooth spiced holidays. Made the old-school way, Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum is balanced with notes of intense vanilla, buttery toffee, and subtle cinnamon. Its boldness sets it apart, while its smoothness effortlessly blends in, making it the ultimate rum for those shamelessly terrific get togethers with your tribe.
ft of good taste.
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
47
m o d er n L IF EST Y L E
JINGLE JUMBLE by john murray lewis | photo by joanna kosinska on unsplash
What a disaster! I dropped my candy canes inside this jumble of letters. There are twenty candy canes in all, and each one is a different flavour. I remember half of the flavours clearly… but the rest are a bit fuzzy. Once you've found all twenty, check the crook of each cane to learn why I dropped them in the first place. CANDY CANE FLAVOURS Blood orange • One kind of pop • A dairy-based whisky? • A foamy coffee flavour • Chocolate • Cinnamon • Linen sweets? No, that can't be right... • Another kind of pop • Dulce de leche • French vanilla •
| WINTER 2023 2023 48 MODERN MODERNMISSISSAUGA MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 48
• •
• • • • • • • •
It's the opposite of vegetable kick The one that reminds me of a downy bum A building material Lemon lime Licorice Peppermint Not quite pumpkin spice Sour apple A berry... I forget which one Watermelon
Jingle Jumble What a disaster! I dropped my candy canes inside this jumble of letters. There are twenty candy canes in all, and each one is a different flavour. I remember half of the flavours clearly… but the rest are a bit fuzzy. Once you've found all twenty, check the crook of each cane to learn why I dropped them in the first place.
G
T
D
I
O
I
T
P
U
N
C
H
A
L
S
H
Q
W
M
D
E
I
T
B
U
T
V
B
W
B
H
P
E
R
O
G
Y
U
I
P
R
X
U
E
H
R
F
T
D
A
E
Q
M
R
N
K
A
P
F
K
S
R
B
P
E
G
N
A
R
O
D
U
R
P
O
N
S
L
T
I
C
B
F
S
J
C
V
N
R
Z
P
O
E
L
G
A
Z
Y
E
N
O
E
S
O
G
O
S
C
B
L
O
U
T
D
C
P
E
F
H
P
T
V
W
U
B
X
W
L
I
A
Y
L
A
X
H
O
P
I
N
I
C
R
M
R
T
G
O
N
E
C
P
E
W
I
K
V
Y
T
Q
E
H
E
F
A
E
C
I
R
O
L
Y
R
X
I
E
N
Z
U
J
C
U
L
D
P
S
F
B
G
X
C
H
O
R
C
V
L
Z
P
W
A
I
A
P
F
Y
S
T
R
A
W
B
E
M
H
D
E
U
C
C
V
E
O
G
J
M
A
F
E
C
I
V
B
R
E
U
D
F
I
Y
E
M
U
G
E
L
B
L
A
N
E
L
T
H
L
A
E
G
N
S
Z
Z
Y
S
T
N
R
B
E
A
X
L
S
J
T
E
C
T
N
P
N
X
I
W
S
B
U
W
K
V
E
A
J
T
B
Y
L
H
A
A
O
L
Y
M
A
D
G
X
K
H
E
Z
N
R
H
E
U
E
R
M
D
N
F
E
D
R
N
U
Y
C
A
D
C
L
V
M
D
S
W
F
J
O
U
T
O
L
F
X
Y
N
I
E
A
P
H
C
G
Y
H
E
T
M
D
L
S
K
I
S
O
E
R
W
P
O
U
I
Q
S
K
Z
N
E
F
T
M
W
C
E
F
R
G
A
P
E
C
O
L
A
T
E
I
L
K
R
A
L
R
E
B
F
D
M
U
A
H
G
Q
Y
C
D
M
P
H
S
V
E
I
A
D
R
O
N
C
N
V
D
W
N
A
B
R
A
B
R
E
G
N
I
G
Q
N
E
C
C
O
M
T
O
P
S
E
R
L
K
R
S
B
G
R
U
L
I
L
V
O
T
N
A
E
G
P
X
E
A
D
L
E
Y
D
N
A
C
N
O
T
K
G
J
B
P
S
ANSWER
_ _______ ____ _ ____ ___ MODERN MISSISSAUGA | WINTER2023 2023 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY
49 49
m o d ern LI F EST YL E
MALTO N M I N U T ES by natalie hart | photo from mississauga.ca The end of the year and the holiday season are an exciting time. One can reflect and look forward, enjoy outings with friends and families and of course Shop Local for the holiday season! This year in Malton has been exciting for the Malton BIA. We are thrilled to have once again brought back our Canada Day event. Beyond that we’ve seen the gateway signage begin to be replaced, introduced a new event with our Bandi Chhor Divas and Diwali festival. Of course 2024 promises to be an exciting year as the Avro Arrow begins to take shape and we can share photos soon! The holiday season is full of scheduling conflicts, overbooking and often stress. Keep in mind that our local merchants are all here to help you with that. From gifts, catering or even a bit of self care you can find unique options in Malton for every need. When you are planning your celebrations keep in mind that the options closest to you will always mean less travel, less time and more peace of mind. If we all commit to a little more local and a little less online we can help each other make 2023 a year to remember!
50 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
mod e r n L I F EST Y L E
by natalie hart | photo by felix luo on unsplash I’m loathe to use that word…you know that word (P…I…V…O…T) but 2024 is potentially shaping up to be a year where those skills continue to be the ones I rely on most. I know that it will bring change but I’m also hopeful that much like 2023 that many of the changes will be for the better even if in the moment the silver lining is hard to see in a cloud. Personally. I began 2023 by doing some hard things. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and into a space across the province I never thought I’d occupy. It turned out I wasn’t meant to occupy that space but that is ok. I made connections and friends I never expected. Then in January my dad passed away, I was in the midst of those uncomfortable things, and put off facing what that would mean to me. Fast forward a few months and my brother and I face that process with a bit more clarity and lay him to rest with our brother. Then my brother moved back to Mississauga. We’ve reconnected in a way that we are both grateful for and it’s been the silver lining I didn’t anticipate. 2024 is likely again going to require making some tough choices. Over the last few years I’ve learned that I’m happiest when I chose the path that lets me serve my community. Mississauga is home, now more than ever with all my family but my son here. I can’t wait to see what 2024 brings and how I can work on making this city the home we all want to have. MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
51
we bring good ideas to light.
We’ve built our design studio around the ability to explore, develop and follow ideas, wherever they lead.
wise idea.
BRANDING D E S IG N PAC K AG I N G D IG ITAL
W IS E ID E A .CA
m o d ern FO O D & D R I NK
THINK INSIDE T It’s 2023, which means we’re all tightening our bootstraps and doing our best to save money where we can. Does austerity mean shortchanging your holiday festivities? Not at all. The most important thing about this time of year is appreciating and spending time with people we care about. And when it comes to planning libations for a crowd, one way to tighten our purse strings is by swapping out expensive premium bottles for the affordable volume that comes with boxed wine. Boxed wine is often automatically associated with bad wine, and while that’s sometimes the case, it’s not always so. There are decent boxed wines out there, certainly at a level to appease the masses in a jovial party setting. Careful selection can go a long way. TIPS FOR FINDING AN ENJOYABLE BOXED WINE Look for the indicators. There are a few things about a box that can hint at a betterquality wine. If you spot a vintage year, that’s a good sign. You might also find an appellation marker such as Ontario’s VQA, which means a wine is made from 100% Ontario-grown grapes and needs to meet regulated quality standards. Wines without
54 MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023
these indicators aren’t necessarily bad, but you can choose wines that do carry them with more confidence.
Decant, decant, decant. We truly cannot
emphasize this enough. Any wine that’s been enclosed in a vessel needs to be exposed to air. This is called letting the wine breathe, which releases unwanted chemical compounds and lets the more desirable ones surface and develop. And if a wine that’s lived in glass needs to breathe, you can bet a wine that’s trapped in plastic is gasping for air. As a bonus, if you’re worried your guests will sneer at getting wine from a box, keep the cardboard in the kitchen and deliver the wine to the table in a classy decanter. Chances are no one will be the wiser.
Once it’s open, keep it in the fridge. Yes, even the reds. Boxed wine can be stored at room temperature before the seal is broken. But once open, the fridge will extend its shelf life closer to the six weeks that’s claimed on most boxed wine packaging. If you’re buying this for a party and expect to go through the entire box in a night, you can skip this for the reds. (Though the lighter reds that tend to end up in boxes are often better served slightly chilled, so this is at your discretion.)
THE PROS & CONS OF BOXED WINE
Pros: Lower cost, less waste, lower carbon footprint. If a wine is available in a bottle
and a box, there’s a solid argument for choosing the box. Plastic quality has improved greatly over the years, and there’s little perceptible difference between the two vessels in younger wines. You’ll pay less up front by volume, and the lighter weight means boxes have a lower carbon footprint in shipping. Keep the boxes and bags together once empty and you can take them to The Beer Store with the rest of your returns. You’ll also waste less if you have leftovers from a party since you can enjoy open boxes for weeks afterward.
Cons: Fewer options, and even fewer local producers. Boxed wine is good for a lot
of things, but protecting and aging fine wine isn’t one of them. If your guests are discerning, consider saving on boxed white wine and splurging on a few bottles of quality red. One more important point: boxed wine requires huge volumes, so you’ll most often find it produced by largescale, internationally owned wineries. If your budget allows you to spend more and support local boutique producers, please consider doing so. They need your business more than the giants do.
THE BOX HOW MANY BOTTLES ARE IN A BOX OF WINE? In Ontario, a box of wine typically contains 3 litres. This is the equivalent to four standard 750 mL bottles of wine. WHAT IS A GOOD BOXED WHITE WINE? As boxed wines go, white wine is the safest bet. Most are unoaked and meant to be enjoyed young. We were confident enough in this that we did zero prior research and walked straight into our local LCBO to find a boxed white wine to take home on the spot. In the Jackson-Triggs 2021 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, this experiment was a success. It’s priced at $43.95 for a 3-litre box, which is the equivalent of $10.99 per bottle, while a separate 750 mL bottle costs $14.95. It’s labeled both as a VQA wine and with a vintage, both solid indicators of quality. With aromas of fresh sweet apple and grapefruit followed up with tarter lemon flavours amid balanced acidity, we’d just as happily buy this in a box as we would in a bottle. WHAT IS A GOOD RED WINE IN A BOX? Unlike white wine, finding a quality red wine in a box is challenging. The oak and
by steph wallcraft | photo by steph wallcraft
tannin that define most red wines need years of aging to develop and soften. This is why many red wines in a box can taste off: they may be sweet, overly oaky, very strong, and sometimes just generally unpleasant. If you’re looking for a good red wine in a box, choose one with no tannin, no oak, and that’s more often enjoyed young. In Ontario, the wine that fits the bill is our local darling, Baco Noir. We went a little out of our way to pick up this Sandbanks Baco Noir, and it paid off. It’s priced by the 3-litre box at $47.95 at the LCBO. This equates to $11.99 per 750 mL bottle, while that same bottle on its own costs $15.95. It’s a VQA wine that’s non-vintage, meaning it doesn’t carry a production year. Non-vintage wines are typically made by blending multiple vintages of the same varietal with the goal of consistency, especially in mass production. We looked to the VQA indicator and single varietal labeling in making our selection. With dark berries, black plum, and vanilla on the nose, plus a palate of tangy berries with more vanilla and a light spicy smokiness, this is a crowdpleaser. It benefits from a long decant, so set it out to breathe for an hour before serving if you can.
WHAT IS A GOOD ROSÉ WINE IN A BOX? People don’t expect to be offered a rosé as an option at a holiday party. If you want to be the host with the most and offer up some surprise and delight, this is a great way to do it. Tread carefully, though: one wrong step and you could be wading into 1990s White Zinfandel levels of cloying sweetness. To skirt that possibility, we picked up this Bask Crisp Rosé. At the LCBO, it’s priced at $41.95 per 3-litre box, which comes out to the equivalent of $10.49 per 750 mL. A separate bottle of that same size costs $13.95. How did we know this wouldn’t be sweet? Its label says it has 0 grams of sugar per 3/4 cup serving. (Note this wine is not entirely sugar-free; it’s labeled this way because that precise volume has 0.49 grams of sugar, which rounds down to zero.) This is a non-vintage international blend that doesn’t declare its varietals, which we’d typically shy away from, but boxed rosé is slim pickings at this time of year. We enjoyed its aromas of cherry and watermelon followed up with flavours of fresh strawberry, more melon, and a hint of spicy warmth. This wine is much better when it’s on the colder side, so don’t let it get too warm in between servings.
MODERN MISSISSAUGA | HOLIDAY 2023 55
Happy Holidays from Parkland Discover exceptional service and beautiful spaces that feel like home. From restaurant-style dining to activities and services, choice is always on the menu. Do more of what you love this holiday season; enjoy coffee with friends, dance to festive music, or relax as you watch a holiday movie in the comfort of your private apartment. From our front desk concierge and chauffeur to in-house chefs, wellness coaches and licensed healthcare professionals, the entire team at Parkland is dedicated to taking care of your every need.
Book a tour today! 1-877-742-6639 experienceparkland.com/welcome Ajax | Mississauga | Etobicoke | Ancaster