I was born in southwest France, where cooking and family meals are a daily tradition. My passion for food stems from my grandmother, a talented cook who rarely repeats recipes. I cherish memories of her kitchen, its walls adorned with graph paper filled with handwritten recipes. I developed a love for perfumes early on too, a perfumer kit gift from my parents being a standout memory. And at the age of 16, inspired by my grandfather’s love for wine, I set out to become a sommelier.
This led me on a captivating journey of exploration, learning and tasting, ultimately bringing me to Ireland two decades ago to begin my career in fine-dining establishments. A significant portion of my journey was devoted to competitions, and in 2016 I proudly secured third place at the ASI Best Sommelier in the World competition while representing Ireland. Currently I work freelance, both in Ireland and internationally, which allows me to keep sharing my passion and continue pursuing what I love every day.
The holiday season is fast approaching, and if you’re hosting, deciding what to serve can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming. However, I believe that selecting wine for Christmas shouldn’t be stressful. The perfect wine is one that brings you pleasure, aligns with your budget and enhances the enjoyment for both you and your loved ones during this festive time. I truly hope that the recommendations below will assist you in your search for the perfect Christmas wine. Cheers to creating lasting memories with every sip!
Cava, Finca Miguel, Brut Prestige, Spain, NV (€18)
Nothing heralds special moments quite like a glass of effervescent wine. Perfect as an aperitif, especially when paired with delightful canapés, this prestige Cava will also shine for those wishing to prolong the sparkle throughout the meal. Round and creamy, it boasts a delightful juicy acidity, brioche-like characters and a vibrant and saline finish. Try it with smoked salmon on buckwheat blinis, oysters with an Asian-inspired dressing, or even at the meal’s conclusion alongside a selection of creamy cheeses.
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Pecorino, Expressions, Terre di Chieti, Italy, 2023 (€13.50)
Born in the sun-kissed lands of Abruzzo, Italy, this Pecorino enchants with its crisp and juicy profile, revealing delightful notes of stone fruits and floral whispers, all elegantly intertwined with hints of minerality. Should you wish to add a Mediterranean sprinkle to your prawn cocktails, fish terrines or vegetarian tarts and quiches – think fennel, orange, lemon zest, or basil – this dry white wine is a splendid choice. Serve it chilled at 8-10 degrees in tulip-shaped glasses and let its personality shine.
Marsanne, Expressions, Voor Paardeberg, South Africa, 2023 (€13.50)
Originating from Voor Paardeberg, a small wine-growing region in Paarl, South Africa, this wine beautifully honours the Marsanne grape variety. It is elegant, creamy and unoaked, featuring delicate notes of apple blossom, fresh almonds and citrus peels. It pairs wonderfully with meaty fish and shellfish such as lobster and Dublin Bay prawns, as well as white meats. If you are considering a white wine to enjoy alongside traditional Christmas ham and turkey, this is an excellent choice. Additionally, it beautifully complements vegetarian dishes such as cauliflower gratin and mushroom Wellington.
Sauvignon Blanc, Tewara, Marlborough, New Zealand (€12.50)
Vibrant and beautifully fragrant, this classic Kiwi Sauvignon Blanc reveals delightful flavours of passion fruit, lime and basil, and a kiss of sea salt on the palate. Its bright, aromatic profile and mouthwatering freshness make it an ideal companion for prime seafood. Smoked salmon; cured sea trout with citrus mayonnaise; baked oysters with lemon, parsley and crispy breadcrumbs; or garlic and dill crab bruschetta – among others – would be delicious with it. A versatile Sauvignon, it will delight your guests with its charming personality.
Chenin Blanc, Ken Forrester, South Africa, 2022 (€18)
Chenin Blanc hails from the Loire Valley in France but has found an ideal second home in South Africa, which now boasts the largest planting of this variety globally. Ken Forrester has been a strong advocate for Chenin Blanc over the years, presenting us with a ripe, well-rounded wine that is beautifully balanced by a lively freshness and enhanced by delicate oak spices. Its savoury notes and creamy texture make it an excellent companion for a variety of dishes featuring pastry, such as pork Wellington, chicken and mushroom pithivier, white fish vol-au-vent and salmon en croute. Additionally, it pairs wonderfully with creamy dishes like potato gratin and cheeses such as Brie.
Pouilly Fuissé, Vieilles Vignes, Pierre Vessigaud, France, 2022 (€24)
Calling all Chardonnay enthusiasts: this one’s for you. Hailing from Pouilly-Fuissé, a renowned Burgundy appellation, this wine embodies all the qualities of an exceptional vintage. With its complex texture, refreshing balance, subtle oak hints and exquisite minerality, it’ is an ideal choice for special celebrations, especially during Christmas. Pair it with meaty fish, luxurious lobster, savoury vegan pies, white meats or a beautiful cheese platter – this wine’s versatility knows few bounds. Serve it at approximately 12 degrees in generous white wine glasses for the best experience.
Xinomavro, Expressions, Macedonia, Greece, 2021 (€14.75)
Seeking to astonish your guests with an exquisite choice that transcends the ordinary? Look no further; this captivating red wine, crafted by one of Greece’s finest producers for M&S, is a perfect companion to the classic Christmas turkey and ham. Merging the elegance of Pinot Noir with the refined structure of Nebbiolo and the savoury Mediterranean essence of Grenache, it will enchant both food enthusiasts and wine aficionados.
Bonarda, Expressions, Mendoza, Argentina, 2024 (€11.75)
Are you in search of the ideal red wine to pair with charcuterie and snacks for your holiday guests? This red wine from Argentina might be just what you need. Crafted from Bonarda, the country’s second most widely planted grape, it features delicious flavours of red berries, a plump and smooth texture and a refreshing finish. Delightfully fruit forward and utterly delicious, it would also make an ideal accompaniment to a cosy Christmas movie.
Pinot Noir, Classics, No.38, Marlborough, New Zealand, 2023 (€15)
The embodiment of sophistication – Pinot Noir. Hailing from the Marlborough region in New Zealand, this wine truly stands out. It is light and delicate, featuring an elegant, sweet red fruit character enriched with smoky undertones and complemented by a crisp acidity. This wine pairs wonderfully with dishes such as slow-cooked porchetta, turkey joint served with bacon and stuffing, or any roasted-root-vegetable vegan creation. Additionally, it makes for a charming choice when serving red wine alongside a fish course. Serve it at a slightly cooler temperature, around 15-16 degrees, to allow it to showcase its full potential.
Rioja, Viñedes en Laguardia, Rioja Alavesa, 2023 (€26.50)
We all know Rioja but this particular bottling is truly exceptional. Crafted in the small village of Laguardia within the Rioja Alavesa region, this wine showcases a harmonious balance and freshness, and features enchanting aromas and flavours of violet, Mediterranean herbs, black plums, and cherry pits. Silky, complex, with finely textured tannins and a vibrant core, it offers a modern and sophisticated take on Rioja wines. This remarkable wine deserves to be paired with exquisite dishes such as Beef or Venison Wellington with mushroom and truffle duxelles, 21-day-aged Irish beef sirloin seasoned with festive spices, or a tender Irish rack of lamb coated in mustard and herb crumbs. It’s advisable to decant it for 30 minutes before serving. Keep in mind that only 6,533 bottles were produced.
Cabernet Sauvignon, Truchard, Napa Valley, 2022 (€37)
A charismatic Cabernet Sauvignon from California, this wine showcases bold flavours of blackcurrant, coffee beans, fruitcake and cedar wood. Its full-bodied, rich yet smooth character makes it a perfect match for indulgent meat dishes such as slow-cooked shin of beef with sauce bordelaise or a garlic-studded leg of lamb accompanied by a Port wine and thyme jus. Enjoyable now, it has the potential to age beautifully over the next four to five years. If you’re not planning to uncork it for Christmas, consider it as a thoughtful gift for a wine enthusiast in your life. Should you choose to enjoy it during the holidays, remember to decant it for half an hour before serving to allow its flavours to blossom. Serving it at a temperature of 16-18 degrees in large tulip-shaped glasses is recommended.
Royal Palace, Reserve Tawny Port (€18)
This tawny Port is indulgently sweet and rich, featuring flavours of dried red and black fruits, nuts, and baking spices. It makes a delightful pairing for both cheese and dessert. It perfectly complements blue cheeses such as Stilton, Crozier Blue or Bleu d’Auvergne, and traditional Christmas puddings and cakes, as well as chocolate-based desserts. For the best experience, serve it chilled at 9-11 degrees, and keep it stored in your fridge for up to a week after opening.
All wines featured are exclusively available in Marks & Spencer.
