What To Drink At Fortnum's With Helen McGinn | The Christmas Case
WHAT TO DRINK AT FORTNUM'S
WITH HELEN McGINN
The Christmas Case
The festive season is upon us and with it inevitably comes a joyfully full social calendar of parties, get-togethers and dinners aplenty, which is why we're thrilled to be joined by award-winning wine expert, presenter and author Helen McGinn, aka @knackeredmother, with her sixth curated wine case, seeing you through the season in perfectly sippable style.
'Fancy making life a little simpler (and more delicious) in the run up to Christmas? From season-friendly Champagne to the perfect pair of wines for the festive table, this case has you covered. There’s also a trio of exceptional sweet and fortified wines to go with puddings, cheeses and more.'
1.
Fortnum's Margaux, Brio de Cantenac Brown
£43
A festive table without Claret is like a Christmas tree without lights! This one, from Chateau Cantenac Brown in the heart of the Margaux region, is just perfect with notes of cassis, expensive leather and spice.
Perfect Food Pairing:
2.
Fortnum's Saint-Véran, Joseph Drouhin
£25
From one of the most famous producers in Burgundy, this beautiful Chardonnay from Saint Veran is such great value (not something you can always say about the wines from this region)! Ripe and round with bright apple and a touch of oak.
Perfect Food Pairing:
3.
Fortnum's Blanc de Noirs Extra Brut Champagne, Maison Bonnet
£45
Blanc de Noirs champagnes shine in the colder months and this one from the Côte des Bars region is simply stunning. Made from 100% Pinot Noir, it’s broader than most with red fruits and a touch of nuttiness.
Perfect Food Pairing:
‘When Fortnum’s asked if I’d like to collaborate on some wine selections I wondered if I might be dreaming. Seriously – I’ve loved the Fortnum’s wine shop for years, often finding an excuse to wander the aisles in the name of research. A real hidden gem, the choice of wines is surprisingly eclectic with everything from brilliant go-to bottles to something a little (or a lot) more special from many of the world’s best wine producers. Join me as I journey through the Fortnum & Mason wine range and discover for yourself just how much joy they bring to the table!’
Helen McGinn
4.
Fortnum's 10 Year Old Tawny Port, Niepoort
£29
If you were to describe Christmas in a glass, this is it! Made by a wonderfully maverick producer in the Douro exclusively for Fortnum’s, think candied fruits and walnuts wrapped in caramel. Sip slowly, fireside.
Perfect Food Pairing:
Solomon Island 70% Dark Chocolate Bar
5.
Huet Vouvray Le Mont Moulleux Halves 2022
£42
A sweet gem from one of the most revered biodynamic producers in the world, this gloriously mellow Vouvray shows just what the Chenin Blanc grape is capable of in the right hands. Rich, balanced and incredibly moreish.
Perfect Food Pairing:
6.
Fortnum's Christmas Pudding Madeira
£19.50
Made exclusively for Fortnum’s by the Barbeito Maderia family, there’s no mistaking what this show-stopping, dried fruit-flavoured, unctuous fortified wine from Madeira should be served with! Also brilliant with mince pies.
Perfect Food Pairing:
Inspiration
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