As we begin to move into the festive period and everyone starts to talk frivolously about Christmas, it’s time to approach that age old dilemma, what fizz am I going to drink this Christmas? Indeed, there is a sparkling wine for every occasion, and we are here to help you make that important choice!
Prosecco – The party starter
Fresh and floral with juicy apple, pear, and white peach characters with a delicate touch of sweetness and a soft and creamy mousse. They say 11am is ‘Prosecco o’clock’ in Italy, which goes to show that this fabulous fizz can be popped open to enjoy anytime of the day or night. We recommend Prosecco DOC Brut Terre di Sant’Alberto NV - this property is in the heart of the Valdobbiadene with 10-hectares of Glera vines nestled among the beautiful, rolling hillsides of the Veneto. Isabella Bisol is now at the helm and supervises the vineyards with great passion to continue her mothers’ hard work producing top quality Prosecco!
Prosecco DOC Brut Terre di Sant’Alberto NV
£10.95 Christmas Offer £9.95
Cava – The underrated one
A smart alternative to Champagne, with vibrant flavours of green apple and citrus with hints of toast. Try Vilarnau Cava Brut Reserva. This is a single-estate wine made from the classic Cava varieties of Macabeo, Parellada, and Xarel-lo, given 15 months ageing on lees. The property, located in Catalunya’s Cava heartland of Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, cultivate their grapes with a range of organic practices and specialise in crafting first-class Cava. Ideal with oysters, or a seafood appetiser.
£11.95 Christmas Offer £10.95
Crémant – The all-rounder
Always have a bottle in the fridge for impromptu guests, it suits all occasions and most dishes. A popular French Sparkling, made in the traditional method (like Champagne) and often, but not always, using the Champagne grape varieties of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Floral, zesty with hints of brioche. Try Cave de Lugny Crémant de Bourgogne from one of the best cooperatives in the region and has gained international recognition for its quality Crémant de Bourgogne. It is made from a blend of 45% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, and 20% Gamay that is generous and ample on the palate complemented by a fine, delicate mousse and bright acidity adding structure and backbone.
Cave de Lugny Crémant de Bourgogne NV
£14.50 Christmas Offer £13.50
English sparkling –The Homegrown one
Celebrate homegrown talent with a mouthwatering English fizz. It’s made in the same painstaking method as Champagne and often comes out on top when blind tasted against its French counterparts. We highly recommend Chapel Down Brut, which is a classic blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and a little Pinot Blanc. The grapes are grown in some of the finest vineyards in the South East of England, primarily situated on the North Downs of Kent with a terroir very similar to that of Champagne. Maturation takes place on fine lees for 6 months before bottling. The wine receives a further 18 months aging on lees in bottle. Aromas of red apple, lemongrass and freshly baked bread mingle with hints of strawberry and quince on the palate and fine persistent bubbles. Perfect to pair with a smoked salmon canape or crunchy battered fish.
£30.00 Christmas Offer £26.00
Champagne – The special one
Champagne is the ultimate celebration sparkler because it has that air of prestige and exclusivity that never fails to make an occasion feel special. Our top picks start with Jacques Boncoeur Brut Reserve Champagne - our award-winning house Champagne that renowned wine critic Jancis Robinson MW declared “great value” is crafted from 88% Pinot Noir and 12% Chardonnay. It’s made in a dry style with classic apple and citrus fruit flavours balanced by delicious freshness.
Jacques Boncoeur Brut Reserve Champagne NV
£27.80 Christmas Offer £24.00
Gosset Grande Reserve Champagne comes from the oldest producer in Champagne: Gosset, with over 400 years of history and can trace back its roots to 1584 when created by Pierre Gosset. Made from the traditional varietals, yet with a higher proportion of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier providing greater body, depth, and length. Highly regarded in the wine business and often referred to as the secret Sommelier’s Champagne! You can finally have you ‘ambassador moment’ with this Champagne and really spoil your guests. Pair with varied tapas, poultry, seafood such as oysters or langoustines, or hard cheeses such as Comte or Parmesan.
Gosset Grande Reserve Champagne NV
£45.00 Christmas Offer £33.00
For more sparkling advise or recommendations, please do get in touch, we would love to hear from you.
