The Holidays are a time to share food, wine and conversation. Most Christmas tables include a feast which begs to be paired with memorable wines. Allow us to recommend the perfect wines to accompany your Christmas table this festive season.
Boschendal Celebration Brut NV
No Christmas table is complete without a bottle of bubbly. Tis’ the season to celebrate, so why not pop the cork on this decorative Celebration Brut by Boschendal? This versatile wine can pair with almost any entrée. There’s an appealing balance between rich fruit and freshness, and the bottle would also look great on the table.
Expect to pay: R100
Piekenierskloof Chenin Blanc 2015
The maiden vintage Chenin Blanc 2015 from Piekenierskloof in Citrusdal are produced from grapes sourced on higher lying vineyards. The wine is silky and fresh with a tremendous finish. A great party wine, with a bottle that looks the part too.
Expect to pay: R90
De Wetshof Bateleur Chardonnay 2013
There’s little need to turn to over-oaked chardonnay when you have such a delectable wine such as this one. The flagship wine from one of Robertson’s elite producers is a marvellous example of chardonnay that is perfect with a magnificent meal.
Expect to pay: R345
Jordan Black Magic Merlot 2013
Show your guests what magic in a glass tastes like by adding this Merlot to your Christmas table. Jordan Wine Estate’s Merlot vineyards are based on Black Tourmaline-rich granite which darkens the soil, leading to perfumed, inky wines. Ancient magicians relied upon Black Tourmaline for protection as they cast their spells. Mystical tradition says to rub black tourmaline for luck and happiness. I rest my case!
Expect to pay: R150
The High Road Director’s Reserve 2012
This Cabernet Sauvignon driven Bordeaux style blend from the High Road in Stellenbosch is a delicious and soul-warming choice for any Christmas table. Packed full of dark wild berries and cherry flavours, this is a red to serve with slow roasted beef if ever there was one.
Expect to pay: R275 at the cellar door
Springfield The Work of Time 2009
This Cab Franc-heavy blend is rich and smooth, and it will slake the thirst of all the red wine lovers at your Christmas table. The wine was then barrel aged for two years followed by four years of bottle maturation. It’s a terrific food wine, thanks to bright fruit and acidity.
Expect to pay: R150
Meerlust Rubicon
What will a Christmas table be without a bottle of Meerlust Rubicon?! The reds of Meerlust have been spectacular since its arrival 40 years ago. The wine – available at a special price from Woolworth offer the festive period – is deliciously earthy and rustic in style. Meerlust Rubicon supplies the right balance to suit nearly every discriminating palate.
Expect to pay: R320
La Motte Pierneef Syrah Viognier
From the home of La Motte in Franschhoek this long-term favourite of mine is as good as ever. The wine’s deep and vibrant fruits of the forest and juicy tannins will pair perfectly with a Christmas roast. Delightful, whether it’s served at dinner or presented as a cellar-worthy present for a wine lover.
Expect to pay: R230
