THE JOURNAL
Photographs courtesy of Hedonism Wines
Winter is a time for hibernation, though as sociable animals, we often like to shut ourselves indoors in the company of others, preferably with feasting on the menu. Food inevitably takes centre stage in these seasonal gatherings. So much so, that what we wash it down with can often take second place. But a good red can warm every cold-weather occasion. And Christmas celebrations really pop with the right champagne. What’s more, at this time of year, there’s no harm in spending that bit extra for a top-end wine.
So, we asked Ms Tatiana Fokina, CEO of Hedonism Wines, which is known for its extravagant wine offering, for her tips on the best winter wines. “It is important to consider what food you are having and also possibly try to go for something most people would enjoy,” Ms Fokina advises. “It’s best to not be too adventurous and experimental. Think about your guests and their tastes.”
Here are Ms Fokina’s five wine recommendations for the dark days of winter.
Collard-Picard Cuvée des Archives Millesime
“There is so much more champagne as a region has to offer than the big names we are all so familiar with,” says Ms Fokina. “This beautiful bottle from Collard-Picard is a true hidden gem, from its presentation – it comes with tiny scissors to cut the string on the bottle neck, making it a great gift – to its golden colour and complex taste. Aromas of brioche and dried fruit combined with freshness means this works extremely well for Christmas.”
**Chassagne Montrachet Les Encégnières Etienne Sauzet **
“I am a big fan of Burgundy chardonnays, and Etienne Sauzet wines are some of the greatest examples of depth and quality this region has to offer. It’s been a great year for burgundy that has had a bit of time to develop. You can expect aromas of citrus fruit, apricot and flowers in this 2015 wine, which will definitely benefit from being drunk with food. I would serve this as an alternative to a red wine, with chicken or turkey. Delicate and buttery, it’s a crowd pleaser that also ages beautifully.”
Chêne Bleu Héloïse
“Created by a true perfectionist, Nicole Rolet, in a beautiful Provence property, Chêne Bleu wines are always a great surprise to those who have not tried them yet. The more masculine of the two reds they produce is Abélard. The feminine is its equal. Héloïse, evokes a perfectly seasonal array of aromas, including black cherry, plum and spices. Full-bodied and powerful, this wine needs to be decanted a couple of hours before the meal. I’ve had it with lamb and venison – it was a great match both times.”
Aubert UV-SL Pinot Noir
“I always try to go for a mix of old- and new-world wines. They can spark a good debate as, inevitably, there are fans of both winemaking styles at the table. This is another 2015, and a great Californian pinot noir. Tones of red fruit, strawberry and raspberry and a very rich texture will complement a game-bird dish very well. It is a wine you want to swirl in your glass and savour for a while, letting it breathe and develop.”
Willi Opitz Goldamsel TBA
“This is a great dessert wine from Austria, which looks like liquid gold when poured in a glass. Mr Willi Opitz himself is one of the most cheerful wine makers I have met and that transmits into his wines. This would work with a strong cheese or a fruit-based dessert. Not overly sweet, complex and well balanced, it’s a wine that feels very merry. A great finish to the meal.”