I think we can all agree on the need to ignite some festive sparkle into our homes this year. At a time to toast all those we may not be able to celebrate with, I’ve rounded up a list of sparkling wines to add some fizz into your festivities this Christmas. With a focus on supporting some great British brands, along with a classic champagne and an alcohol-free sparkling option to ensure everyone can join in on the action, see below my top picks that can be delivered to your door this December.
Hattingley Valley Classic Reserve
Collaborating with farmers across the UK, Hattingley Valley’s vineyards believe an array of soil types and climates contribute to the perfect sparkling wine. The temperamental weather of the UK means that a simple frost could destroy their vines, however spreading the source of their grapes far and wide gives a greater chance of the perfect grapes remaining at their prime. Royal not only in its light golden colour but in its taste, the classic reserve holds delicate bubbles perfect for toasts and celebrations. Combining a blend of chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier, this English sparkling is complex with crisp apple and a tang of sherbet for a delightful blend.
Website: hattingleyvalley.com
Taittinger Brut NV half bottle
Well known by all champagne drinkers, Taittinger is a staple for the Christmas period. As one of the last standing champagne houses with the family still passionately involved, Taittinger have upheld their stellar reputation throughout the years. This Christmas, their adorable half bottles offer all of the enjoyment and opt in as a great stocking filler. Flavour finishing long and smooth, this iconic champagne gives off flowery aromas that combine ripe peaches and apricots. A strong bubble on the dry side, it pairs perfectly with white meats (such as turkey) and shellfish.
Website: taittinger.com/en
Jenkyn Place Rose 2014
The impacts of climate change have only had a positive impact for Simon Bladon, the owner of Jenkyn Place. Located on the south-east of England, the worries of cool temperatures have dwindled, with the average temperature only being slightly cooler than in Champagne, France. These conditions have enabled the vineyards at Jenkyn Place to maintain their tart nature, allowing the perfect sparkling wine to flourish. A delicate essence of rosehip makes this rosé light and delicate in flavour for a soft and subtle drink that is ideally paired with a fruity dessert that will evoke the nostalgia of summer.
Website: jenkynplace.com
Louis Pommery English sparkling wine
Pommery, one of Champagne’s leading houses made a name for themselves for being the first to create the very first brut champagne to meet with commercial success: breaking with the tradition of sweet wine back in 1874. Today, they are always looking for new ways to spread their wings within the industry. More recently, this includes hopping over the English Channel to team up with the experts (just above) at Hattingley Valley to create their very own Pommery branded English sparkling wine or the ‘Louis Pommery’ as they have coined it. Striving to create the best sparkling wine on the market, with lemon and honeycomb adding an interesting twist.
Website: louis-pommery.com/wine/england
McGuigan ‘zero’ alcohol-free sparkling
I thought it was only fair to include an alcohol-free option in light of this year’s low/ alcohol-free trend. Leaving you without a heavy head the next morning, McGuigan’s alcohol-free sparkling wine is perfect for everyday drinking, morning, afternoon or night! With lively bubbles, whilst maintaining the satisfying pop of opening a bottle – enjoy pear and green apple tastes notes with a tangy crisp. Suggested pairings include smoked salmon, meaning that this could be the perfect Christmas day breakfast treat.
Website: sainsburys.co.uk
