I originally published a version of this article in Vivid Magazine.
 | At this time of year, Britain spends more on wines, spirits and liqueurs than at any other time. As well as entertaining friends, catering for parties, and procuring those special, more premium wines to match the meal on the big day itself, it is also a time when alcohol changes hands as a gift. Don’t get stuck in a wine rut this festive season. Try ringing the changes to your traditional Christmas tipples, making your parties stand out for all the right reasons. |
Festivities are always associated with sparkle. This season is the time to treat your friends to some English Sparkling Wine. It might not have the same snappy name as Prosecco, Champagne or Cava, but our local fizz is some of the finest in the world. Here in Berkshire, there are several wonderful vineyards producing top quality sparkling wines using the traditional method (often known as the Champagne method). Recent research shows this method was actually invented in England, by one Christopher Merret. It doesn't quite have the same ring to it as Dom Perignon, who is often credited with the invention. Perhaps that's why we aren't all drinking glasses of Merret.
The local chalk soil and climate is very similar to that in the Champagne region, so if you love Champagne’s crisp apple, or brioche, toasty and biscuity flavours, you will love English Sparkling Wine. It’s a great gift, particularly for anyone from outside of our region, and makes a perfect accompaniment to festive treats like smoked salmon, gravadlax, crab or oysters.
Those with a sweeter tooth may well prefer to stick to Prosecco. It’s Britain’s number one fizz by far, and probably set to top the wine charts soon. So popular is it, that M&S now even make Prosecco flavoured crisps!
The local chalk soil and climate is very similar to that in the Champagne region, so if you love Champagne’s crisp apple, or brioche, toasty and biscuity flavours, you will love English Sparkling Wine. It’s a great gift, particularly for anyone from outside of our region, and makes a perfect accompaniment to festive treats like smoked salmon, gravadlax, crab or oysters.
Those with a sweeter tooth may well prefer to stick to Prosecco. It’s Britain’s number one fizz by far, and probably set to top the wine charts soon. So popular is it, that M&S now even make Prosecco flavoured crisps!
At this time of year, treat yourself and your guests to the premium Prosecco Superiore from Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG. The DOCG category is the highest level of regional quality guaranteed produce in Italy. You'll taste much more interesting flavours.
Or, brighten up cheaper supermarket Prosecco by turning it into a cocktail. Whip up a traditional Bellini by blitzing some canned peaches to a pulp, & adding a spoonful or two to your glass. You might also add a generous slug of peach liqueur. I like to use good quality liqueurs such as those by Briottet which are made with real fruit rather than just alcohol, flavour and sugar. Other liqueurs that work well in fizz are the classic Crème de Cassis (blackcurrant), and there are a wide range of new flavours that work just as well. Try some exotic Lychee, or even Violet if you fancy something more floral. Or back at M&S, the Fragola with wild strawberries can add a visual delight as well as a taste sensation.
Or, brighten up cheaper supermarket Prosecco by turning it into a cocktail. Whip up a traditional Bellini by blitzing some canned peaches to a pulp, & adding a spoonful or two to your glass. You might also add a generous slug of peach liqueur. I like to use good quality liqueurs such as those by Briottet which are made with real fruit rather than just alcohol, flavour and sugar. Other liqueurs that work well in fizz are the classic Crème de Cassis (blackcurrant), and there are a wide range of new flavours that work just as well. Try some exotic Lychee, or even Violet if you fancy something more floral. Or back at M&S, the Fragola with wild strawberries can add a visual delight as well as a taste sensation.
Mulled wine is always a favourite during the festive season, and over the last couple of years, there’s been a trend towards serving mulled cider. Try adding your usual mulling spices to some cloudy apple juice to make a great child (or driver) friendly version. Commercial mulling spice mixes can work if, like me, you're no domestic goddess.
There’s no need to have 2 pots on the go - simply add a shot or two of Calvados (an aged apple spirit, similar to Brandy), for those who aren’t watching their alcohol intake. Like Brandy, Calvados comes in a range of ages and quality levels.
You might also enjoy a glass after dinner instead of a more common Cognac or Whisky. In Normandy, where Calvados originates, there’s even a tradition of taking a small glass of Calvados part way through a large meal as a way of creating a “trou” or hole, allowing diners to finish the meal comfortably.
If you’re feeling even more adventurous, try some warmed Japanese saké While warming won’t do much to improve the flavours of a premium Junmai Daiginjo style brew, the inexpensive saké styles readily available in supermarkets will mellow, becoming smoother and rounder on warming. Just remember that it won’t lose its high alcohol content, so be careful not to serve too much.
When it comes to after-dinner drinks, you might again consider Japan. Umeshu, a plum infused style of saké, somewhat akin to Sloe Gin, makes a wonderful alternative for fans of Amaretto and is possibly the best drink match for the mince pie I’ve ever tasted.
There’s no need to have 2 pots on the go - simply add a shot or two of Calvados (an aged apple spirit, similar to Brandy), for those who aren’t watching their alcohol intake. Like Brandy, Calvados comes in a range of ages and quality levels.
You might also enjoy a glass after dinner instead of a more common Cognac or Whisky. In Normandy, where Calvados originates, there’s even a tradition of taking a small glass of Calvados part way through a large meal as a way of creating a “trou” or hole, allowing diners to finish the meal comfortably.
If you’re feeling even more adventurous, try some warmed Japanese saké While warming won’t do much to improve the flavours of a premium Junmai Daiginjo style brew, the inexpensive saké styles readily available in supermarkets will mellow, becoming smoother and rounder on warming. Just remember that it won’t lose its high alcohol content, so be careful not to serve too much.
When it comes to after-dinner drinks, you might again consider Japan. Umeshu, a plum infused style of saké, somewhat akin to Sloe Gin, makes a wonderful alternative for fans of Amaretto and is possibly the best drink match for the mince pie I’ve ever tasted.
For me though, it’s got to be sherry. No, not the cream style your grandma used to drink in the 1970s. This is the time to uncork the Pedro Ximénez, an unctuous, treacle-sweet sherry with flavours of dried fruit, spice, and caramel. If you’re too full for dessert, this is basically liquid Christmas cake. Sip a glass on its own, or even pour over vanilla ice-cream. Who needs Brandy Butter? While there are some wonderful premium versions available, most of us are highly satisfied with a glass of Sainsbury's Taste the Difference 12 year aged PX at just £8 for 50cl, it's a great place to start.
Finally, a word on wine gifts. This is not the time to nip down to the supermarket and grab a big brand. Again, think local. Lavish some care on your friends & family, and support one of our local, independent wine merchants.
Their survival depends on your support. They’ll help you choose exactly the right bottle, whether it’s a gift, or for matching your most important meal of the year. And if you still need help, I'm available. You can lay on a Purple Teeth Wine Tasting party as a gift.
Enjoy the holiday season and always remember to drink responsibly and leave the car at home.
Cheers!
Their survival depends on your support. They’ll help you choose exactly the right bottle, whether it’s a gift, or for matching your most important meal of the year. And if you still need help, I'm available. You can lay on a Purple Teeth Wine Tasting party as a gift.
Enjoy the holiday season and always remember to drink responsibly and leave the car at home.
Cheers!
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