Author, drinks writer and presenter Helen McGinn’s advice for choosing the best wines that won’t break the bank this Christmas
The supermarket shelves are currently stuffed with Christmas wine offers, so if you see something you know you love and there’s 25% off, fill your boots accordingly. But if you’re not sure where to start, here are a few of my favourite wines guaranteed to see you through the festive period – and all well under a tenner.
The Sparkling Wine
Outrageously good value for a sparkling wine that’s made in the same way as Champagne (meaning it gets its fizz from a second fermentation inside the bottle). From the quietly brilliant Loire Valley in northern France, this is a blend of mostly Chenin Blanc (the local star grape) with some Chardonnay. Light, fresh and lemony with a hint of just-popped toast, this one’s a proper party starter.
The White Wine
Made by star winemaker Corlea Fourie from grapes grown on the granite slopes of Groenberg Mountain in Wellington, northeast of Cape Town, she’s added a dash of Grenache Blanc, Vermentino and Viognier to the blend, too. The result is fantastic, with lemon peel aromas and red apple flavours. One for the turkey feast.
The Red Wine
Bordeaux doesn’t normally come this cheap – and if it does, it’s not usually as good as this one! Made from a classic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, the warm vintage has brought out Merlot’s plump side together with a hit of blackcurrant from the Cabernet. Proper comfort and joy in a glass.
Use the code FRUGALITY15 for a 15% discount on Helen’s new online wine course – An Expert Guide to Enjoying Wine with Create Academy. Head to @knackeredmother on Instagram for plenty more drinks inspiration!
Leave a Reply