With the festive season now in full swing, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about which wines deserve a place on your table this Christmas.
Here are my top picks to enjoy on Christmas Day.
For me, Christmas Day simply wouldn’t be the same without a bottle of fizz. Whether it’s a glass with breakfast, an aperitif before dinner or a toast shared with family and friends, it’s an essential in my house.
It also happens to pair beautifully with a variety of starters, including smoked salmon, prawns or even pâté.
For an indulgent, yet budget friendly option, I suggest choosing one of the many fabulous Champagnes available in your local supermarket. They’re often produced by some of the most famous Champagne houses (although they won’t tell you that on the label!) and offer great value for money.
Try: Co-op Les Pionniers Non Vintage Champagne, £22.75
Choosing the perfect wine to accompany the main meal can be surprisingly tricky, as a traditional Christmas dinner brings together an array of different flavours all competing for attention.
From the richness of the gravy to the sweetness of the cranberry sauce and the savoury character of the stuffing, it’s a true medley of flavours on the plate.
In my house, turkey always takes centre stage, and I like to serve a light red such as Pinot Noir or a good quality Beaujolais. These wines have enough acidity to cut through the richness of the food while remaining delicate enough not to overpower it.
However, there are some excellent white options that work just as well. A fuller-bodied white such as a lightly oaked Chardonnay or an aromatic Viognier are great choices as they are robust enough to complement the variety of flavours on the plate yet bring a lively freshness to the meal.
Try: M&S Maison Riveraine Fleurie, £12 or Bread & Butter Chardonnay, £16 Sainsbury’s
For dessert, a Tawny Port is a great choice. Its rich, nutty character complements traditional festive treats, especially those containing dried fruit and nuts like Christmas pudding or mince pies. It’s also delicious with chocolate or caramel desserts and pairs beautifully with strong cheeses such as Mature Cheddar, Manchego or Pecorino.
Try: Graham's 10 Year Old Tawny Port, £22.50 Tesco
About me
My name is Lisa, and I am a wine writer and event host based in Belfast. I have a passion for making wine both accessible and enjoyable and host a variety of informal yet informative wine classes in and around Belfast. In March 2025 I published my first book, ‘The Divine Wine Guide’. This beginner-friendly guide covers everything you need to know about selecting the perfect wine for any occasion and is available to buy on Amazon as both a hardback and eBook.
