Burgers and backyard chefs are partial to beer. But when all-beef patties are sizzling on the grill, a nice glass of red hits the nail on the head.
BBQ Barbera 2009, $9.95
A new offering from Araldica Vini Piemontesi, the screw cap and succinct label are decidedly un-Italian. Pair with a cheese-laden behemoth from Burger’s Priest.
Ponce notes: “Made from Piedmont’s most widely planted grape, this Barbera has a lovely bouquet of raspberry Hubba Bubba, some interesting leathery notes on the palate, and juicy, mouth-watering acidity. Ten bucks, you say? I’ll take a case.”
Les Jamelles Merlot 2009, $12.95
Another newcomer to the LCBO, this Vin de Pays d’Oc hails from the Languedoc region in southern France. Try with mushroom-based veggie burgers.
Ponce notes: “With Pernod-soaked plums on the nose, spicy cherry on the palate, and tobacco on the finish, this bistro red wears its beret proudly and smokes a pack of Gauloises a day.”
PONCE PICK: Mitolo Jester Shiraz 2009, $21.95
Available at Vintages, this potent Shiraz comes from McLaren Vale, a premiere wine region in South Australia. Open with bespoke beef burgers, simply dressed.
Ponce notes: “This classic Aussie fruit bomb hides its whopping 14.9 per cent alcohol well and has a touch of sweetness to temper piquant condiments like mustard. G’day, mate—let’s throw anothah burgah
on the barbie.”
