WINE : Your guide to the best Wine this Festive Season
When it comes to selecting the best wines for the festive season, consider a blend of timeless classics and adventurous newcomers to keep you and your guests delighted.
Start with a sparkling wine, such as a crisp Prosecco or a sophisticated Champagne, to add a touch of elegance to your celebrations. For white wine lovers, a rich Chardonnay or a zesty Sauvignon Blanc can beautifully complement Christmas dishes like roasted turkey or seafood. Red wine enthusiasts might enjoy a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or a spicy Shiraz, which pair well with hearty meals and cheeses. And let's not forget the dessert wines—consider a velvety Port or a sweet Moscato to end the meal on a high note.
WINE : Your guide to the best Wine this Festive Season
These are some classic wine guidelines to follow but if you really want to know what’s Hot this Christmas, what your glasses should be filled with on Christmas Day and what bubbly you should being toasting with on New Years, I’ve asked four great wine suppliers in Edinburgh to provide their TOP PICKS FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON. Many are available online, or in the shop.
Ultimately, the best wines are those that bring joy and enhance the festive spirit, but don't be afraid to explore and try new wines too.
Thank you to Diana from Wine Events Scotland, James from Cockburns of Leith, Chris from Lidl and Simon from Great Grog for providing their TOP PICKS from Sparkling to Sweet.
WINE EVENTS SCOTLAND
For those seeking the perfect wine gift, look no further than Wine Events Scotland. Diana hosts some of the most acclaimed wine events, offering the opportunity to purchase gift vouchers ideal for any wine aficionado—or even a treat for yourself. This festive season, she introduces the innovative Sample Set Series. Imagine a curated tasting pack featuring six exquisite white wines and another set of six rich red wines, all presented in 50ml sample bottles, inspired by the popular Monday Minis series.
These sample sets allow people to enjoy the wines at their own pace, providing a leisurely tasting experience. To make the experience even more delightful, each set comes with detailed tasting notes, guiding you through the distinct flavours and characteristics of each wine. Once you’ve discovered your favourites, you can easily order full-sized bottles directly from the website. So, whether you're exploring new flavours or finding the ideal gift, Wine Events Scotland has you covered.
These Sample Sets are on offer : £12 per pack or £20 for 2.
Buy yours here : www.wineeventsscotland.co.uk/shop/
COCKBURNS OF LEITH
Cockburns of Leith is Scotland’s oldest wine and spirits merchant. Founded in 1796, the history of their company reflects how wine and spirits, bottled and shipped in Scotland, have been savoured here and across the world for over two centuries. Although they boast a long history, they are a thoroughly modern wine merchant. At their flagship wine store on Frederick Street in Edinburgh city centre, you can browse an excellent selection of wines, enjoy some wine tastings and receive friendly expert advice. Their online store allows you to receive the same quality service from the comfort of your own home and organise quick and efficient delivery.
James, Manger at Cockburns of Leith has listed some absolute festive favourites.
Some cult classics and on sale price:
Bollinger Brut Special Cuvee NV- currently £47.99 (normally £54.99). They will run an even cheaper flash sale on this some point in December so keep an eye out!
https://www.cockburnsofleith.co.uk/product/bollinger-special-cuvee/
The Chocolate Block, Boekenhoutskloof, 2022- currently £20.99 (normally £25.99)
https://www.cockburnsofleith.co.uk/product/the-chocolate-block/
Some winter favourites:
Amicale Cantine di Ora 2020- £13.99
Apassimento style, Juicy and warming. Great alternative to an Amarone/ Valpolicella Ripasso style at a fraction of the price
https://www.cockburnsofleith.co.uk/product/amicone-cantine-di-ora/
Orange by Leza Garcia 2023- £14.99
Pick this up instead of your summer Rose. Great foodie wine with some warming orange tanginess
https://www.cockburnsofleith.co.uk/product/orange-leza-garcia/
These are available on their website and in their shop on Frederick Street. These are industry leading offer prices available in the UK for these products:
1. Chateau Musar 2018- £35.99 (normally £43.99)
https://www.cockburnsofleith.co.uk/product/ch-musar-2018/
2. Hunter’s Sauvignon Blanc 2023- £11.99 (normally £15.99)
https://www.cockburnsofleith.co.uk/product/sauvignon-blanc-hunters/
3.Cava Vallformosa Origen Bio Organic Reserva NV- £11.99 (normally £15.99)
https://www.cockburnsofleith.co.uk/product/cava-reserva-origen-brut-bio-organic/
LIDL
When it comes to finding superb value for money in the world of wines, Lidl consistently stands out with its impressive range. It's no wonder Lidl's stand is always a hit at wine festivals, attracting wine enthusiasts eager to explore their affordable yet high-quality selections. This holiday season, Chris has generously shared his top five value-for-money and delicious wines perfect for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
These selected wines offer a delightful variety to suit different palates and festive meals, ensuring that your gatherings are both merry and memorable. Whether you're planning a cosy dinner with loved ones or a grand holiday party, Lidl's wines provide exceptional taste without breaking the bank.
Raise a glass to festive cheer with Lidl's finest, and enjoy the season's best without compromising on quality.
Sparkling
Bissinger Rose Brut - £21.99
Codorniu Cava 150 - £8.99
White:
Tokaji Furmint Oak - £7.99
Red:
Albali Gran Reserva Valdepenas - £7.49
Sweet:
Passito di Pantelleria - £12.99
Visit www.lidl.co.uk to find your nearest store
GREAT GROG
Another great independent wine supplier who have been around since 1999. You’ll find them on Leith Walk and two stores on the Southside. They stock a large selection on wines as well as spirits and beers. Simon has chosen his Top 3 wines for this Festive Season available in store.
ITALY : TERRE DI VALTER GRECO DI TUFO 2023 WHITE 13.5% - £12.89
Grecos are amongst the best white wines from Italy, and this is a top notch version. Minerally, fruity, unoaked yet textural. Craves food...
FRANCE : CHAUME ARNAUD VINSOBRES 2020 RED Vegan/Organic/Biodynamic 14.5% - £17.05
Single village wine of immense quality, Grenache/Syrah/Mourvedre blend. The wine that created Great Grog in 1999.
CHAMPAGNE GOBILLARD Non Vintage 12.5% - £27.50
Even Champagne can sometimes surprise you with how good it is. This is one of those wines. Thierry Gobillard is the winemaker/owner/grower. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir & Pinot Meunier in equal measure. Delicate with yeasty, bready fruit.
In conclusion, Edinburgh's wine scene this festive season is shining brightly, thanks to four remarkable suppliers. Wine Events Scotland, with its exceptional tasting events and sample sets, offers a delightful way to discover new favourites. Cockburns of Leith, a historic and revered wine merchant, continues to provide an exquisite selection perfect for any celebration. Lidl impresses with its superb value for money, offering an incredible range of wines that make every gathering special. Great Grog completes the quartet with its carefully curated wines, ensuring there's something for every palate. Together, these suppliers promise to elevate your festive season with unforgettable wines.
Cheers to a season filled with flavour and joy!