Louis Latour Agencies

Classic Christmas Foods and Wine Matching… Part One

03 November 2017

Tradition is one of the components that makes Christmas so much fun. You look forward to certain parts of the day and every family has their own take on how the days turns out. We will be posting a series of articles each focussing on a part of the day or a course. Within each we have taken a few favourites and matched them to a wine, both with a traditional pairing and with something more unusual. Today we will begin with Starters and Aperitifs.

 

Aperitif

Traditional: Champagne Gosset Grand Blanc de Blancs Brut NV

There can be no doubting the link between bubbles and Christmas celebrations and as the oldest wine house in Champagne Gosset are certainly one who knows the value of history. This Cuvée offers both the finesse of the Côte des Blancs and the structure of the Montagne de Reims. Malolactic fermentation has been avoided to preserve the freshness and the elegance of the fruit and a long ageing in cellars will bring roundness and complexity.

Try something different: Cognac Frapin VSOP with Dalston’s Ginger Beer

Cognac is not normally considered as an aperitif but that shouldn’t stop you – this is one to taste before you judge because the taste will justify the chance. The fiery ginger beautifully matches the richness of the VSOP making this a warming, fiery but refreshing drink to greet your guests with or curl up in front of the fire.

 

Prawn Cocktail

Traditional match: MOMO Sauvignon Blanc 2015

MOMO wines are 100% organic, certified by Demeter. This vintage displays a complex nose with aromas of tropical fruit, herbaceous notes and a hint of cassis. The natural fermentation adds a rich and textural quality to the palate, with subtle notes of lemon zest and passion fruit. In particular, the lemon flavours in the wine are reflected in the dish drawing the whole together.

Try something different: Wakefield Estate Riesling 2016

The Clare Valley is renowned for its dry Riesling and Wakefield Estate Riesling is no exception. On the palate, the wine displays intense lemon and lime characters along with hints of orange blossom. The finish is crisp and resonates with citrus fruit - hallmarks of a great Clare Valley Riesling. The bone-dry acidity works beautifully with the Marie Rose sauce.

 

Smoked Salmon

Traditional match: Michel Redde Pouilly-Fumé La Moynerie 2015

Pouilly-Fumé La Moynerie is the Redde family's flagship wine and is a blend of wines originating from the main soils of the appellation. This approach produces a balanced wine that plays on the strengths of each location. The finished wine expresses the density, aromatic minerality and aline purity of the soils. The acidity is perfect for cutting through the fish and usual soft cheese that usually accompanies the salmon.

Try something different: Morgenhof Estate Chenin Blanc 2013

Morgenhof are based in Stellenbosch and follow dry farming practices resulting in truly expressive wines. Their Chenin Blanc wine has a wonderful expression of refreshing pear, apricot and citrus flavours well integrated with French oak. On the finish a lingering sensation of dried fruit and soothing creaminess. The fresh acidity coupled with the toasty oak notes perfectly complement the smokiness in the salmon. 

Stay turned for Parts Two and Three coming up over the next couple of weeks.