Christmas Wine Selection

[El Gordo]

Hi Ian.

At last, an important topic of conversation.

It's a personal view, but I find that people get too wound up by what to drink with what. For a start, a lot of people will drink wine only on these special occasions, and for those, I'd say the best thing is to give them what they like. In the case of my own parents, that's probably some bland medium German white. Up to the 50s and 60s, it wasn't uncommon for people to choose to drink Sauternes and Barsac, or other wines we now firmly classify as dessert wines - so a lot of this is just fashion.

A more measured answer: turkey isn't a particularly strong flavoured meat so it's probably not going to clash violently with anything. If you're having a starter, along with some standard dry white like a Loire Sauvignon or Italian, there would be nothing wrong with people continuing with that through the main course. Or you might want to switch to a meatier white like a New World oaky Chardonnay. For reds, you might be best going for something not too pungent, that may overwhelm the turkey. What about a decent single village Beaujolais? Fleurie, Morgon, Julenas or similar. Or a lighter style Cotes du Rhone?

I was in Waitrose this morning and noticed they're knocking out Torres Gran Sangredetoro 2000 for only about £5.50. I love the Torres wines, and this is about £2 less than the normal price. Personally, I wouldn't serve it a lunch though. A bit heavy.

As for Champagne, well unless I was drinking it all myself, or sharing it with another enthusiast, I wouldn't go overboard. My favourite standard Champagne is probably Louis Roederer but for family swilling I'd settle for Waitrose or Sainsbury's own label, or even a decent Cava for half the price.

I've got a friend who's a Master of Wine. I recently advised him on running shoes, so I'll ask him to drop by here and return the favour.

Can't help with the stuffing I'm afraid. Mine comes out of a packet, and people are too polite to complain.

Andy