Christmas Wine Recommendations

by Steph Rackley and Chris Campbell

 

With over 30 years' experience of the Rothschild portfolio of wines under his belt, CEO Chris is a dab hand at selecting the perfect wine for any occasion. We poured a glass or two with Chris recently and asked him to share his top festive season recommendations with us...

 

What are your go-to wines for accompanying a traditional Christmas Day Dinner?

Christmas Day has to be about indulging; Château Mouton Rothschild Aile d’Argent 2019 with the first course, followed by a bolder Lafite, maybe 1996 or 2003.

I’ll still be deciding which up until Christmas Eve when they’ll be brought out of the cellar.

 

What else will you be drinking on Christmas Day?

Les Pucelles from Domaine Leflaive - it’s beauty and depth is captivating.

I’ve started opening Chateau L’Evangile 2011 and it’s a real surprise.

There’ll be Chateau Clarke 2010 for sharing with a group of friends and Chateau Rieussec 2019 will be in the fridge to be enjoyed with anyone dropping by for a mince pie and a chat.

 

Any recommendations for the perfect party tipple?

We love the Rothschild Blanc de Blancs, and Billecart-Salmon Rosé - although both perhaps a little too special for a very large party!

 

Which wines will you be gifting this year?

I couldn’t possibly tell, but I can reveal in the New Year…

 

What’s your favourite wine for cosying up in front of the fire after a chilly Boxing Day walk?

It has to be Jean-Luc Colombo’s Cornas wines. Deep, seductive, warming and brilliantly produced.

 

Are there any new releases you’ll be requesting from Santa, for future festive drinking?

I heard Jayson Woodbridge is making some incredible new wines in Napa, if I’m a Fortunate Son I may get an allocation.

Also, talking to Jean-Emmanuel Danjoy from Mouton last week, he’s enraptured by the Mouton 2022 and it sounds like I’ll want to secure a case or two for the future!

 

MERRY CHRISTMAS ALL

To treat yourself or a loved one to some of the wonderful wines recommended by Chris, have a browse and remember there’s a handy search function and even a wine quiz to help you choose!