Christmas Season Drinks

By Iheoma Okoroma | December 19, 2023 0 Comments

Christmas season is here again, so get ready for festivities and celebrations with friends and family. Our pick of seasonal drinks from your high street supermarket can pizazz your atmosphere now and into the New Year.

Petaluma Croser NV, Adelaide Hills, Australia, 13.5% abv

According to brand pioneer Brian Croser this lively fizz made from 65% Pinot Noir and 35% Chardonnay rivals Champagne! It is part of his aperitif style non vintages from the cool climate of Piccadilly Valley in the Adelaide Hills. Pinot Noir contributes a nose of strawberry fruits followed palate flavours of nectarine, cashew nuts and biscuit. Moussey and creamy and finished with a tart acidity. We recommend drinking on its own. RRP £20 from Tesco (£15 from 1st until 31st December).

From Laithwaites Wine…

Château La Clarière , Catillon Côtes de Bordeaux, 2020, France, 14.5%

A Merlot based blend where the grapes are fermented separately and aged in French oak barriques for 12 months. The nose reeks of warm red fruit, while the palate holds intense blackcurrant, black peppers and tobacco, with an oak finish.  Delightful with red meat dishes. RRP £27.00.

Joseph Mellot Sincérité Sauvignon Blanc, 2022, Val de Loire, 12.5 % abv

Aromatic gooseberries and citrus assault your nose before your palate is saturated with elderflowers and tropical fruits – in short, everything you’d expect from a good Sauvignon Blanc. This white from the Loire Valley is fermented with increased contact on the lees for a deeper flavour. Pair with white fish and meats. RRP £15.99.

From Aldi…

Castellore Amarone Della Valpolicella 2020, Italy, 15.0% abv

This heavyweight glug is full bodied with a pungent nose. flavours of red cherries, dark berries and sweet spice bring warmth and sensuousness to the palate. Great served with stronger flavoured poultry like duck, or red meat stews. RRP £16.99.

Chassaux et Fils Chablis Premier Cru ,2022, 13.0% abv

A complex limited edition wine with a nose of roasted nuts and citrus notes. The palate bursts with herbs, apricot and citrus, leading to a smoky, mineral finish. This lively wine can be paired with cheeses, fish and white meats. RRP £13.49.

And for spirit lovers…

Haysmith’s Cranberry & Clementine Gin, England, 40.0% abv

This imaginative combination of cranberry tartness and citrus notes also maintains keeps with tradition in the underlying juniper notes of spiciness. Makes a long drink by adding fresh orange juice, ginger ale or lemonade in a tall glass. RRP £15.99.

In the image are also Chocolate and Cherry Crumble, and Luxury Traditional mince pies encased in an all-butter pastry. £2.75 for a box of 6 – part of the Asda Extra Special range. Delicious served hot or cold with custard or cream.

Please drink responsibly this festive season.

Merry Christmas 2023, from all of us at Simply Woman Lifestyle and Consumer Magazine.