David's Drink Diaries - Issue 22

At this time of year, as the festive season approaches, many of us find ourselves pondering the perfect wines to share with guests or to give as thoughtful gifts. With so many options available, choosing can feel daunting. To help narrow the field, I’ve curated a selection of wines that are sure to impress and deserve a spot on your shortlist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a bottle to wrap up as a present, these choices offer something for everyone.

Next week I will explore a range of wines expertly paired with each course of a traditional Christmas lunch, ensuring your holiday celebrations are perfectly complemented from start to finish.

Champagne Henriot - £60 from John Lewis

Champagne Henriot predominantly uses Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs, which imparts freshness and structure, and Pinot Noir from Montagne de Reims for depth and richness. The house’s signature style is defined by extended ageing on lees, allowing its wines to develop complex aromas and a refined mousse. 

If you are looking for a Christmas gift, you can purchase a bottle with an elegant Henriot-branded single-bottle ice bucket. Lined with a removable gel insert, it is designed for ease: simply chill the insert in the freezer before placing it back in the bucket. When it’s time to open the Champagne, the bottle rests inside without the need for ice, remaining at the ideal temperature. This design not only eliminates the mess of melting ice but also presents the Champagne in a sleek, minimalistic style that matches Henriot’s refined brand image. It’s a great idea!

Cloudy Bay 2024 - £25 from Berry Brothers & Rudd

The grapes for Cloudy Bay are primarily sourced from vineyards in Marlborough’s Wairau Valley. The 2024 growing season presented unique challenges. It began with an unusually cold and unsettled period, including frosts during flowering that reduced yields. Marlborough then experienced its driest period on record, leading to a mid-March drought declaration. The vines relied almost entirely on irrigation, though the intense sunshine also helped keep disease pressure low.

Despite these challenges, the warm weather and cooler nights provided favourable conditions for ripening. The grapes reached their peak under nearly perfect conditions, with every block achieving its full potential. 

The result is a Sauvignon Blanc that embodies Marlborough’s character while offering something unique. On the nose, the 2024 vintage is slightly more restrained than previous years, revealing aromas of citrus, apricot, and orange blossom. The palate balances stone fruit, pink peppercorn, and passionfruit, with a long, saline-citrus finish that lingers beautifully. 

Cum Vineis Sclavis - £16 from Wickhams

Cum Vineis Sclavis is a wine produced by Cavit in the Trentino region of northeastern Italy. The name translates to "enslaved vines," a reference to mediaeval viticultural where young vines were trained using rigid supports to create orderly rows. This method led to the term "Schiava," meaning "slave," and is recognised as one of the oldest cultivated vines in Trentino.

The wine is made exclusively from the Schiava Gentile grape in the foothills of the Valle dell'Adige and Valle dei Laghi, at altitudes between 250 and 350 metres. 

In the glass, there are smells of ripe red currants and wild strawberries, underscored by delicate floral nuances. On the palate, it is light to medium-bodied and fruit-forward, offering fresh, red fruit flavours and a lively acidity. Hints of hazelnut emerge on the smooth finish, adding a soft complexity. 

Barón de Barbón 2023 - £12 from Averys

Produced by Bodegas Muriel in the heart of Rioja, Spain, Barón de Barbón blends traditional Rioja techniques with a fresh, modern appeal. On the nose, delicate notes of grapefruit and lemon peel intertwine with subtle floral hints, adding a layer of elegance to its aromatic profile. The palate reveals a well-balanced freshness, led by lively citrus notes and complemented by a clean minerality that enhances its crisp finish.

Elephant Tree Malbec 2024 - £12 from The BBC Good Food Club

Made by Journey's End in South Africa's Western Cape, The 2024nElephant Tree Malbec opens with rich black fruits such as blackberries, damsons, and plums, with hints of wild herbs and warm spices. On the palate, it is smooth and velvety, with generous fruit flavours wrapped in soft tannins. 

Mirlo Merlot 2023 - £12 from The Sunday Times Wine Club

This Spanish Merlot showcases the warmth of the country’s climate with its ripe, red fruit character. Notes of juicy plums, cherries, and damsons dominate, balanced by a touch of earthiness that adds complexity. The soft tannins and smooth texture make it an easy-drinking wine that pairs well with roasted vegetables or light pasta dishes. It’s a straightforward, fruit-forward Merlot with charm and approachability.

Le Révélation Roussanne 2022 - £15 from Laithwaites

This has aromas of ripe peach, crisp pear, and wild herbs, with a spiciness that adds character. On the palate, it’s full-bodied, with a rich texture balanced by a refreshing acidity. This wine would be an excellent companion for dishes with creamy sauces or roasted chicken, highlighting the Roussanne's natural vibrancy and complexity.

Lobo e Falcão 2023 - £14 from Laithwaites

This Portuguese blend showcases the diversity of native grape varieties, producing a wine with intense aromas of dark berries, dried spices, and a hint of freshly ground coffee. The Lobo e Falcão 2023 has flavours of ripe blackcurrants and plums, accompanied by a pleasant earthiness. Medium-bodied with structured tannins, it’s a great choice for hearty dishes, such as slow-cooked meats or rich, savoury pies.

Hayrick Sauvignon Blanc 2022 - £15 from Averys

A quintessential Sauvignon Blanc, the Hayrick 2022 is bright, zesty, and bursting with energy. Aromas of lemon zest, lime, and passionfruit create an inviting nose, while the palate brims with refreshing acidity and vibrant citrus flavours. The finish is clean and mineral-driven, making it a perfect partner for seafood, especially oysters and other shellfish.

Don Cayetano Chardonnay 2023 - £11 from The Sunday Times Wine Club

From an estate with deep-rooted vines dating back 75 years, this unoaked Chardonnay leans toward a fruity style, showcasing flavours of juicy peach, ripe apple, and a burst of citrus. Without oak ageing, the wine remains light and fresh, making it an ideal choice for dishes like grilled chicken or seafood salads.

Gordon Ramsay Intenso Rosso - £8.50 (£7 clubcard price) from Tesco

A bold yet approachable red, Gordon Ramsay’s Intenso Rosso packs a punch with flavours of blackberry, dark cherry, and a touch of dark chocolate. Soft tannins add structure without overpowering the palate, while the medium body ensures it’s enjoyable on its own or with food. This wine’s rich character makes it versatile, and great with anything from pasta to grilled burgers.

Gordon Ramsay Pinot Grigio - £8.50 (£7 clubcard price) from  Tesco

Designed for easy drinking, Gordons’ Pinot Grigio offers crisp, refreshing flavours of citrus and green apple, with a floral hint that adds finesse. The palate is light, bright, and mineral-driven, showcasing flavours of lemon and pear. Perfect for sipping on a warm day, it also pairs well with light salads, seafood, and Mediterranean dishes.

Pigassou 2023 - £13 from Laithwaites

From hand-harvested vineyards in the Massif Central, Pigassou 2023 captures the rustic elegance of its origins. The nose has vibrant red berry aromas with hints of wild herbs. Medium-bodied and supple on the palate, there are juicy flavours of cherry and raspberry, balanced by soft tannins and a gentle acidity.