Gift suggestions are pouring in from everywhere. The duty has searched for you the tale of the pleasures of the table, the land and good food, and offers three selections of local products. Today, six gifts to offer to guests… other than the classic bottle of wine!
Balsamic vinegar La Villa vinegars
On his land in Saint-Pierre-de-Broughton, in Chaudière-Appalaches, Jean-François Pelchat creates sumptuous artisanal vinegars that restore the nobility of this millenary product. The one made with grapevine cherries is a great introduction, and in a way the signature of La Villa vinegars. However, we could not write these lines without warmly recommending the maple balsamic called Les Voiles or its cousin Nocturne with buckwheat honey. Starting at $9.50.
lavillavinaigres.ca
Chloe’s Chocolates
A reference in terms of chocolate in Montreal and awarded as artisan of the year at the last Lauriers de la gastronomie gala, Chloé Gervais-Fredette has more than one treasure to melt in your mouth. We collect them in a beautiful colorful box of six, nine or twelve divine creations, and it’s guaranteed happiness! Does the host always have a chocolate bar in his desk drawer? All in good time ! The box of six tablets is as pretty as it is delicious! Starting at $13.
546 Duluth East, Montreal
leschocolatsdechloe.com
Alphabet candle holder
What if we were inspired by the winter solstice to offer light as a gift? At least that’s the idea that comes to mind when looking at the candle holder from Montreal-based company Alphabet — whose durable designs are a hit. The base enhanced with a handle is made of wood and raw or painted steel. As sober as it is elegant, it has its place on any table. Then, to believe the compliments it arouses at our table, we can assure you that it is a thought which will please and which will shine for years to come. $75.
5679, rue Fullum, room B
alphabetmobilier.com
Dried flowers from the vegetable workshop
Four years ago, Géraldine Philippin swapped biology and the animal world for that of plants. Thanks to several experiments and a unique installation — the scientist is never far away! —, she manages to dry a wide variety of flowers, bringing out their colors and shapes. Under the name “plant workshop”, she designs splendid bouquets that can be kept for months or even years. What’s more, Géraldine Philippin has found the ideal delivery box to flower all of Quebec! Nota bene: plant workshop also offers floral creation workshops, whose winter program will be released in mid-January. Bouquets from $40, workshops from $80.
ateliervegetal.ca
The Gardens of the Sea
Les Jardins de la mer make a point of promoting the edible plant heritage of the banks of the St. Lawrence. With the help of its team of pickers, the Saint-Germain-de-Kamouraska company has become essential for sourcing herbs from the forest and flats. The six mixtures are sold individually or together in a box. Perfect offering for those who love to cook, to use more local products or simply to awaken to the taste qualities of our collective pantry. Starting at $8.95, $51 for the set of six jars.
lesjardinsdelamer.org
Saint-Crème sugar cream drink
No need to panic if your fudge does not freeze, the Mauritian distillery Mariana has the best of the B plans: the Saint-Crème, an alcoholic cream reminiscent of the traditional dessert. With its well-balanced taste and notes of vanilla, it will make its place in a latte for brunch, in hot chocolate for après-ski or on ice at the end of a meal. To offer to nostalgics, sweet tooths and palates who love local products. Note that Saint-Crème is offered in a lactose-free version and was awarded the Double Gold medal at the 2022 New York World Wine & Spirits Competition. $35.50.
saq.com/fr/13917766