Well, HELLO Summer!

Okay, okay, it's still Spring for another month or so, but Victoria Day always feels like the start of Summer, don't you think? At the very least, it's the weekend when we dust off the bbq and garden furniture and get settled in for Summer entertaining.

On that note, if you need wine for the weekend, we're open 10-6 on Friday, Saturday and holiday Monday, and 11-6 on Sunday. May we suggest the following pairings to make your entertaining easier?

• Grilled Pancetta-Wrapped Asparagus. Asparagus is in season and it is glorious! However, pairing this delicious perennial with wine can be challenging. Grilling the 'gus helps by adding a charry depth to the vegetable's fresh grassiness, while the additional salty meatiness of the pancetta makes this a perfect pairing with our luscious Riesling Loved By Lu, $17.95
• Pork-Fennel Burger. There's something about juicy pork shoulder meat paired with black pepper and fennel in this Mark Bittman recipe that has us reaching for our shopping bags and a bottle (or two) of Baco Noir, $16.95. Plus, any recipe that starts out with the words "For this burger, you need fat" has got to be a winner ;)
• Victoria Sponge. If, by Monday, you're feeling a little Anglophilia coming on and want to celebrate Victoria Day in style, a slice of this traditional British dessert and a flute of chilled Fancy Farm Girl Flirty Bubbles ($29.95) make for a perfect tribute. 

If you can't make it to the winery this weekend, stop by your local LCBO to pick up a bottle or two of Fancy Farm Girl Frivolous White, (LCBO #:394072). Chill it well and serve with Bon Appetit's Garlic & Rosemary Grilled Chicken with Scallions.  

Have a wonderful, safe and relaxing long weekend everyone!