Last week I recommended a few esoteric wines to enjoy with Christmas dinner. This week, a few more traditional suggestions that should please the more conservative drinker. I tend to start Christmas dinner with Champagne, which invariably puts people in the mood. On one occasion I continued pouring Champagne with the starter. If you are serving smoked salmon, prawns or oysters, Champagne will do very well, as will most chardonnays.
As well as the featured Mâcon-Lugny, O’Briens has the Domaine Begude Étoile (€22.95) a perennial favourite of mine, and the wonderful rich Château-Fuissé Tête de Cuvée (€31.95), both of which offer great value. If you are in Whelehan’s buying the Marsannay, they also have an excellent Saint-Romain Le Jarron (€49) for a real treat. However, the Blank Canvas Chardonnay below would be my blow-out white.
If on the other hand, you are working to a strict budget, I would recommend the Aldi Specially Selected Mâcon Villages (€12.99), the Laurent Miquel Côte 128 Viognier 2021 (€12, Dunnes) or the Lidl Grüner Veltliner (€8.99).
My two red choices are both from France. The Mala Coste is wonderfully rich and smooth, and I can see it going very nicely with white or red meats as well as all those full-favoured stuffings. The Marsannay, from one of the lesser-known parts of Burgundy, is lighter and more elegant, perfect with duck, goose or turkey.
Mâcon-Lugny Grande Réserve 2023, Caves de Lugny
13%, €16.95 down from €20.95
An unoaked chardonnay with fresh, lightly textured orchard fruits and peaches with a good dry finish. This would go nicely with starter and main course.
From O’Briens
Mala Coste Domaine la Dourbie 2019, AOC Languedoc
14%, €22.95
Very stylish rich dark fruits with herbal notes and a long smooth finish. A good partner for turkey, beef or dishes with Mediterranean herbs.
From Redmond’s, D6; Mitchell & Son, Sandycove, The Vaults, D2, IFSC, D1
Blank Canvas, Reed Vineyard Marlborough Chardonnay 2022, New Zealand
13.5%, €42.95
Richly textured with lush opulent stone fruits, toasted nuts and a lively acidity. A complex and very moreish wine. Perfect with starters, turkey and cheesy vegetarian dishes.
From Coopers, Cahir; Neighbourhood Wines; Blackrock Cellar; Ely, Maynooth
Marsannay Copiacum 2022 Domaine Derey
13%, €41
A seductive, elegant pinot with smooth dark fruits, subtle spice and a long finish. Great for a posh Christmas dinner.
From Whelehan’s, Loughlinstown
