Christmas Wine Guide 2023
I'm sure I only did my last festive wine guide around 6 months ago. Time is flying and Christmas will be here before you know it. Here's my guide to what you should be drinking this year with the usual irreverent categories..... Happy Christmas everyone!
The "Champagne is getting a bit pricey isn't it?" sparkling choice - Jansz Premium Cuvee NV Tasmania - £14.49 Waitrose
The rugged region of Tasmania probably isn't the first place you think of for elegant and charismatic sparkling wine but the clever chaps at Jansz are certainly making it work. This blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir is terrific and punches far above its price point. Some stunning value here (currently £4 off in Waitrose) and a regular for us at home.
The "I want to take something a bit different round to my friend's house" wine - Orange natural wine Recas Estate 2022 - £14.40 Tanners
If you're not the only person that rocks up with a natural orange wine from Romania then you're at a very civilised gathering indeed. This blend of FeteascÄ RegalÄ, Muscat Ottonel, Riesling and Pinot Grigio is full of rich apricot and orange notes and has a slightly nutty / brioche finish. This never fails to impress when I open a bottle and being sulphite free is an added bonus.
The "Christmas spirit (no not that spirit)" option - Altamura Distilleries Premium Vodka - £32.50 Master of Malt
Until a few years ago I thought my vodka days were behind me (and even then they were cheap mixer days at best). Having begun delving into the world of fine vodka a few years ago however I've been stunned at some of the offerings available. This vodka is crafted from 100% Altamura wheat, a heritage grain cultivated for over two millennia in Italy's Puglia region. The resulting vodka has a citrus and aniseed flavour which whilst excellent in a high end cocktail is even better on its own with a few ice cubes.
The "You have to have a Pinot Noir with Christmas dinner" option - Domanie de la Metairie d'Alon Pinot Noir Village 2021 - £17.99 Majestic
I've long been a believer in the incredible match that Pinot Noir proves to a Christmas dinner. Typically I've gone New World, particularly Central Otago (NZ). This French example from close to Limoux in southern France really impressed me recently. An elegant and fresh wine with hints of cherry and liquorice that will work well if you're organised and eating relatively early in the afternoon.
Hope you all have a fantastic Christmas!
Richard












