It’s that time of the year again when the air is filled with the scent of mince pies, the sound of carollers in the high street, and the clinking of glasses with loved ones. Christmas is just around the corner, and we’ve got your Christmas wine pairings covered. From Christmas feasting to Boxing Day bonanzas, here are our recommendations for an impressive, and thoughtfully curated collection.

1. Bubbles to Kickstart Christmas Day

Dressed up in your finery (Santa hat included), Christmas songs on the radio, and for some reason an indulgent spread of nibbles before the rest of the days feasting. What better way to kick off Christmas than with a glass of elegant sparkling. The rich flavours and effervescence are a sure way to start the celebrations and have a moment of indulgence before the hard work begins!

Bonnet Launois Champagne Brut – A superb small-scale Champagne with subtle aromas of white fruit and citrus. The palate is lively, with hints of fruit and a delicate freshness.

James Martin’s Crémant de Limoux – Created using the same grapes and method as in Champagne, this Crémant has an elegant taste with wonderfully fine and lasting bubbles.

2. Elegant Whites for the Christmas Feast

As the day unfolds and you gather around the table for the main event, it’s time to uncork some elegant white wines. For the traditional turkey feast, a Chardonnay or a Viognier works wonders. These whites offer a harmonious balance, complementing the succulence of the turkey and the richness of the sides. A subtle oakiness found in some Chardonnay adds a layer of complexity, making each bite a culinary delight.

Anna Haugh Chardonnay – Selected and blended by Chef, Restaurateur, TV personality Anna Haugh, this award-winning white wine is a balanced blend of Chardonnay and Viognier. Blended to be paired with food, you will find medium body with intense fruit and low acidity.

French Bulldog Chardonnay – Very well-balanced wine with a good structure, fruity and buttery notes.

Les Artistes Côtes du Rhône Blanc – fruit-driven, medium acidity and lovely length, creating a wine that is both approachable and sophisticated.

3. Dazzling Reds for Hearty Dinners

When the sun sets and the Christmas lights twinkle, transition to the bold and beautiful red wines. A well-chosen red wine pairs seamlessly with heartier dishes like Beef Wellington or roast lamb. The robust tannins and deep fruit flavours will stand up to the bold flavours of your festive feast, creating a symphony of tastes that dance across your palate.

Ramirana Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon – Deep ruby red colour and violet hues, intense notes of blackcurrants and a touch of black cherries and wild berries.

Larchago Rioja Crianza – Aged for 14 months in American oak barrels and 6 months in bottle. Aromas of plums, blackcurrants, blackberries and blueberries, with cocoa bean, cinnamon and gingerbread spice.

Le Lion de Cicéron Corbières – Expect bold elegance with aromatic and fruity notes of herbs and cherries, with supple tannins.

4. Don’t forget the cheese board!

Christmas wouldn’t be complete without the endearing pong of a plentiful cheese board. You can’t go far wrong with a Port or Sherry accompaniment; however we have some crowd-pleasing wines to pair with your festive fromage.

Masso Antico Negroamaro Organic – Vivid red colour and purple hints. An intense and rich nose, with aromas of blackberry, cherries and plums. Round and well balanced, with soft tannins

Casa Lo Alto Rocha Candeal – This showstopper is fresh and fruity, with hints of black pepper and a great lingering taste.

James Martin Rosé – For those looking for a lighter wine or pairing with creamy cheese, this is elegant and well balanced with red-berried fruit flavours, and a long finish.

5. Boxing Day Bubblies for Brunch and Beyond

As the chaos of Christmas subsides and you ease into Boxing Day, keep the celebration going with some light and lively sparkling wines. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying leftovers, a crisp Prosecco or a sparkling Rosé is the perfect companion. These wines are versatile enough to pair with a range of flavours, making them ideal for grazing on Boxing Day goodies.

Bacio della Luna Organic Prosecco – Golden colour with greenish reflections. Delicate nose with green apple, peach and floral notes.

Bacio della Luna Prosecco Rosé DOC – Before the sparkling process, a portion of Pinot Noir is added, which gives a lovely pale rosé colour. Cranberry and raspberry notes on the nose with hints of roses and violets on the palate.

6. Unwind with a Nightcap

As the day winds down, put the telly on, your feet up, and cap off your festive celebrations with a soothing nightcap that you’re able to enjoy throughout the festive period without becoming jaded. For our final Christmas wine pairings, pour a glass of something smooth, easy-going, and delicious.

Viñalba Reserve Malbec x Abandon Ship – Soft and full bodied, with dark fruit notes and a hint of chocolate which is the hallmark of the Malbec grape.

Pa Road Sauvignon Blanc – This dry Sauvignon Blanc offers tropical aromas with hints of grapefruit and a crisp finish. The ideal zing you need to break up the heavy reds!

Belles Du Sud Rosé – A fan favourite, this light rosé is floral with slight spicy notes. The taste is refreshing with hints of exotic fruit and grapefruit. The unique bottle design also looks superb when hosting.

Remember, the key to successful Christmas wine pairings is to choose bottles that complement the occasion and enhance the dining experience. So, gather your loved ones, raise your glasses, and toast to a Christmas filled with good company, delicious food, and, of course, fantastic wines (enjoyed responsibly, of course). Cheers to a merry and memorable festive season! 🍷✨