Traditionally, big reds are the wines to pick alongside a festive board, but there are plenty of other options with enough character to sing along to the salt and fat of your Christmas cheese feast.
Scaramúsc, Lambrusco dell’Emilia, Angol d’Amig 2019
Lambrusco, in our opinion, can be a much more interesting choice than Prosecco or other fizzy plonks on offer this time of year. The bubbles of this natural humdinger from Emilia Romagna, fermented in earthenware jugs, will go nicely with soft cheeses but will also have the tartness to stand up to more mature guests such as aged Pecorino or Old Winchester.
For a higher ABV, we’d suggest a number of Burgundy vintages from our pals Emile Wines, an importer based in Tottenham with a focus on organic and biodynamic wines.
Aligoté Mallon, Bourgogne, Domaine Henri Naudin Ferrand 2019
The other white grape of Burgundy (i.e. not the well known Chardonnay) that deserves more time in the limelight. This has bright acidity and notes of citrus, dill, and toasted marshmallow. Goes well with softer and ‘goaty’ cheeses.
Côte d’Or, Bourgogne, Domaine Pierrick Bouley 2019
Quintessential red Burgundy from Pinot Noir vines in Volnay. It’s perfumed with sweet fruit, fresh acidity and silky tannins. This calls for a harder cheese with plenty of depth.