If the short days and cold nights of winter are unappealing, then this may be the perfect season to baton down the hatches, pull up an old chair next to the fire and indulge in the joys of wine. Winter is also host to a range of celebrations, each which merits its own journey into the world of wine.

Great Winter Red Wines

  • Fortified Wines – Fortified wines are the ideal wines for the Christmas period. Port, Madera and Sherry are all great Christmas wines which go well with seasonal treats such as nuts and blue cheeses. In addition, fortified wines having a higher alcohol content than their unfortified cousins also act as a winter warmer.

  • Mulled Wine – A spiced red wine usually served warm with the addition of fruit juice and a fortifying spirit, such as brandy. Mulled wine is great for serving to large numbers of people at outdoor events and parties. Mulled wine can be bought pre-made, far better results are obtained through a homemade recipe.

  • Malbec – Argentina’s star grape and also a key component in France’s Bordeaux blend. Malbec produces dark violet “inky” wines with flavours of damson, tobacco and resin. Malbec is great for serving with winter classics such as stews and roasts.

Great Winter White Wines

  • Champagne and Sparking Wines – Two of the years key celebrations Christmas and New Year both fall in the winter period and neither would be complete without the presence of a sparkling wine. For a luxury experience, take the opportunity to splash out on a vintage bottle of Champagne. Alternately, if budgets are limited consider a good quality Cava or New World sparkling wine. These alternatives to Champagne are often a fraction of the price but can be of equal value.

  • Tokaji Aszu – A legendary sweet wine produced in Hungary. The wine is characterised by its unbelievable levels of sweetness and usually low alcohol levels. Tokaji Aszu, if made well is an incredibly complex wine, consider serving a small glass with classic winter desserts such as cheesecake.