A leading wine authority has unveiled the perfect festive pairings to elevate the nation's key Christmas moments, from unwrapping gifts to watching the King's Speech. The guidance comes as research reveals 47 per cent of consumers are keen to improve their wine knowledge before the holidays.
Pairing Wine with Pivotal Festive Moments
Master of Wine Jane Masters, one of only 418 people worldwide to hold this prestigious title, has curated a list of recommendations tailored to specific Yuletide occasions. The advice is based on a study of 2,000 adults who celebrate Christmas, commissioned by wine retailer Majestic, which also found that 29 per cent find buying wine intimidating.
"The festive season is rich with aromas, flavours and traditions, and pairing the right wine can elevate those experiences and make them even more memorable," said Masters. "Whether you’re watching the King’s Speech or decorating the tree, there’s a wine to match with every occasion."
Specific Recommendations for the Festive Calendar
For the joyful chaos of exchanging presents, Masters suggests a glass of Balfour’s ‘1503’ English sparkling rosé. Crafted using the traditional Champagne method, she notes that "English bubbles are every bit as exciting as what’s under the tree."
When decorating the Christmas tree, the bright and beautifully designed bottle of Vilarnau ‘Gaudi’ Organic Rosé Cava Brut Reserva makes it a perfect companion, echoing the decorations being hung.
For the solemnity of the King's Speech, an aptly named Sauvignon Blanc called ‘The King's Favour’, with notes of guava and gooseberry, is ideal. Masters highlights that it is "made by wine making royalty" in New Zealand's Marlborough region.
Navigating Food and Social Pressure
The research highlighted the social anxieties around festive hosting, with 35 per cent of past hosts feeling pressure to serve the 'right' wines, and 15 per cent unsure how to pair wine with food.
For the culinary highlights, Masters has specific advice. Pair Rose & Rose Pinot Grigio with Boxing Day leftovers, as its aromatic profile complements a turkey curry. For the Christmas Day feast itself, a Pinot Noir like Toast and Honey offers rich flavours that enhance traditional trimmings like sage and pigs in blankets.
Even present-wrapping gets a dedicated pairing: a glass of Majestic’s Parcel Series No. 85 Pinot Noir. The producer is unknown, "making it something of a ‘secret’ while you are wrapping surprises for others."
From Carols to New Year's Eve
The guide extends beyond Christmas Day. A Parcel Series No.95 Late Bottled Vintage Port is recommended for carol services to warm the vocal cords. For New Year's Eve, a magnum of Bouvet Saphir vintage crémant offers Champagne finesse at a lower cost.
Jane Masters emphasised that "buying wine doesn’t have to be intimidating," pointing to the expertise available in Majestic's 216 UK stores. "Our Store Sommeliers are always on hand to help customers find the perfect wines," she added, noting the option to try before you buy at in-store tasting counters.
