FESTIVE WINES

Our food editor, Catherine Hill teamed up with Co-op wine buyer Ellie Pinfield earlier this year to bring you a small selection of their stand-out festive wines. Whichever main course you choose to go for this year, each wine is chosen to really make your Christmas lunch shine…

YOUR MUST-HAVE PARTY WINE

If you’re feeling a little bit stuck as to what to take to a party this year, we have you covered…

Co-op Irresistible English Bacchus 2023, £13

“English wine is having a real moment right now and our new offering comes from the beautiful Balfour estate in Kent. It’s a very elegant wine, with lots of freshness and elderflower on the nose and offers guests something that they’ve possibly never tried before. Perfect for fans of Sauvignon Blanc.”

THE PERFECT TURKEY WINE

If you’re keeping it traditional this year. Ellie brings you the perfect red to serve with your turkey…

Albert Glas Pinot Noir 2023, £9.50

“This 100% Pinot Noir from Germany is packed with sour cherry aromas and a light and bright cranberry flavour, which pairs wonderfully with turkey. Serve slightly chilled for added freshness.”

THE PERFECT PAIRING FOR OUR SALMON COUILIBAC

Looking for a white to pair with our delicious salmon pastry dish? Ellie has the perfect partner…

Co-op Irresistible Macon Villages Chardonnay 2023, £10.75

“White Burgundy at this price is hard to find. Peachy on the nose, with a minerality cutting through, there’s a slight herbal quality to this wine that would work brilliantly with dill and parsley. Unoaked, this French white is lighter in style than other Chardonnays so doesn’t overwhelm the delicate flavour of the salmon and instead complements with a wonderful ripe citrus flavour that’s perfect for fish.”

PERFECT WITH OUR SPICY HARISSA CAULIFLOWER STEAKS

It’s not always easy pairing wine with spicy dishes but we have the answer…

Co-op Irresistible Alvarinho, £8.50

“From Portugal’s Vinho Verde region, this 100% Alvarinho has bold aroma and citrus and peach notes. The zesty aromatic freshness of the wine will pair well with the aromatic coriander dressing.”

FABULOUS WITH OUR BEEF SHORT RIBS

This gorgeous alternative to turkey is just delicious served with a dark, fruity red…

Co-op Irresistible Languedoc 2024, £10.15

“This big bold red is produced by famous winemaker Jean Claude Mas from a blend of 50% Grenache Noir, 40% Syrah and 10% Mourvèdre. It’s packed with dark fruit and soft supple tannins, with plenty of herbal and fruit notes that stand up well to Catherine’s richly flavoured umami slow-cook short ribs.”

THE PERFECT PUDDING WINE

I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed trying this sweet Sherry – it’s like Christmas pudding in a glass!

Co-op Irresistible Pedro Ximenez Sherry NV, £7

“Our award-winning PX Sherry is rich and luscious, with an indescribably festive flavour reminiscent of juicy raisins, mince pies, dried figs, dates and prunes. Pair with dessert for a classic match, but for something more unexpected keep it on the table for the cheese course too. It’s a great alternative to port and pairs well with blue cheese. Best served lightly chilled as this enhances the freshness and acidity of the wine and cuts the sweetness level back.”