Exceptional Christmas Wines for Every Festive Moment 

Exceptional Christmas Wines for Every Festive Moment  

The holidays are a time to gather, celebrate, and indulge, and no Christmas feast is complete without the perfect wines to match the occasion. From the sparkle of Champagne at breakfast to the richness of a fortified wine with cheese (if you still have room!), each moment of the day offers an opportunity to open something different.  

Choosing the right wine is more than pairing flavours; it’s about creating memories with your family. This year, I’ve selected seven wines, each with its own character, ready to enhance your festivities.

Harrow & Hope Blanc de Blancs 2018 (England)  £40 from Laithwaites

Christmas celebrations often begin with a toast, and this English sparkling wine delivers the elegance needed to mark the occasion. Made from 100% Chardonnay in Buckinghamshire, it showcases England’s acknowledged prowess in sparkling wines. With vibrant acidity, fine bubbles, and notes of green apple, citrus, and freshly baked brioche, this Blanc de Blancs captures the festive spirit beautifully.  

Perfect Pairing: Raise a glass as guests arrive, or serve alongside smoked salmon canapés or a festive seafood platter for a sophisticated start to the day.  

Cloudy Bay Pelorus NV (New Zealand) £20.99 from Waitrose

A sparkling wine from Marlborough that bridges the gap between Champagne elegance and New World vibrancy. Made in the traditional method, Pelorus NV offers notes of crisp green apple, lemon zest, and a hint of toasted brioche. With its fine mousse and zippy freshness, it’s an all-occasion sparkler that works from breakfast through to dessert.  

Perfect Pairing: Serve as a morning aperitif with pastries or alongside smoked salmon, crab, or oysters.  

Au Sommet Chardonnay 2023 (USA)  £24 from Laithwaites

A rich and indulgent white wine from Napa Valley, this Chardonnay offers the warmth and depth ideal for the Christmas table. Expect layers of tropical fruit - pineapple and mango, complemented by a touch of vanilla and cream from oak aging. Its mouthfeel makes it a versatile choice, whether accompanying the main meal or shining on its own.  

Perfect Pairing: A flawless match for roast turkey with buttery trimmings or a nutty vegetarian wellington.  

Le Tarral Montpeyroux 2019 (France)  £18.99 from Laithwaites

From the Languedoc’s rugged terrain comes this bold and complex red. Blending Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, this wine is a winter warmer with its flavours of dark cherries, dried herbs, black olives, and a touch of spice. The structured tannins and earthy undertones make it perfect for hearty fare, evoking the comforting traditions of rural France.  

Perfect Pairing: Pair with beef Wellington, lamb or a platter of hard cheeses.  

d’Arenberg Thunderstep McLaren Vale Shiraz 2021 (Australia) £23 from Laithwaites

Christmas often calls for a wine with boldness, and this Shiraz from McLaren Vale delivers in spades. Ripe blackberry, plum, and black pepper dominate, while subtle oak aging adds notes of mocha and spice. With its rich concentration and velvety tannins, it’s a wine that feels like a celebration in itself.  

Perfect Pairing: Serve with glazed ham, your finests turkey roast, or even a spiced nut roast.

Seifried Estate Sweet Agnes Riesling 2021 (New Zealand) £17.99 from Laithwaites

For a touch of luxury, this dessert wine from Nelson is a perfect finale to the meal. Made from late-harvest Riesling grapes, it bursts with aromas of honeyed apricot, citrus marmalade, and orange blossom. Despite its sweetness, a vibrant acidity keeps it refreshing and balanced, making it a joy to sip.  

Perfect Pairing: Pair with traditional Christmas pudding, a creamy trifle, or a selection of soft, creamy cheeses.  

Dom Brial Tuilé Hors d’Age Vin Doux Naturel, AOC Rivesaltes (France)  £16.99 from strictlywine.co.uk

This Vin Doux Naturel from Roussillon is Christmas heaven. Made primarily from Grenache, it undergoes oxidative ageing, creating a tawny hue and flavours of dried figs, walnuts and caramel. The result is a wine with depth and complexity, perfect for savouring slowly during the evening whilst playing board games. 

Perfect Pairing: Sip alongside a chocolate tart, blue cheese, or a plate of dried fruits and nuts to close the day with indulgence.