As the festive season draws near, wine lovers across the UK are gearing up to celebrate with bottles that reflect both tradition and modern tastes. From sparkling sensations to robust reds, this year’s trends showcase a blend of local favorites and global influences. Let’s explore the top wine picks for Christmas 2024/2025, including some standout French wine classics from Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Rhône that are perfect for the season.
Sparkling Sensations: Effervescent Elegance
No festive occasion is complete without a glass of bubbly, and English sparkling wines continue to shine on the global stage. Gusbourne’s Blanc de Blancs 2019 is a prime example, offering crisp minerality and refined elegance. Its citrusy notes pair beautifully with canapés or seafood starters, making it an ideal choice for Christmas gatherings.
For those seeking something unique, Bolney’s Cuvée Noir—a sweet sparkling red—adds a festive twist. This unconventional option pairs wonderfully with Christmas pudding or dark chocolate desserts, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and effervescence.
Globally, Champagne remains a timeless choice. For a luxurious treat, consider Louis Roederer Cristal or Bollinger Special Cuvée—both iconic examples of French sparkling wines that elevate any celebration.
White Wine Revival: Full-Bodied Favorites
Full-bodied white wines are making a strong comeback this holiday season. Rich and complex options like Leeuwin Estate Art Series Chardonnay 2019 from Australia’s Margaret River region are perfect for pairing with creamy dishes or turkey with all the trimmings. Its stone fruit flavors and buttery texture make it a crowd-pleaser.
Closer to home, Morandé Terrarum Single Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2023 offers zesty acidity and tropical fruit notes. This Chilean gem is ideal for seafood starters or lighter vegetarian dishes.
From France’s Burgundy region, Meursault or Puligny-Montrachet are must-try whites for Christmas. These Chardonnay-based wines offer layers of flavor, from ripe apple and pear to hints of vanilla and hazelnut, thanks to their oak aging. Their richness complements festive dishes like roast chicken or smoked salmon.
Red Wine Classics: Bold and Robust
When it comes to reds, robust flavors remain at the forefront of holiday wine trends. Beronia Rioja Reserva 2019 from Spain delivers velvety smoothness with notes of red berries, vanilla, and spice—perfect for pairing with roast lamb or beef.
Portuguese blends are also gaining traction in UK wine lists. Wines from the Douro Valley, such as Quinta do Crasto Reserva, offer bold fruit flavors with earthy undertones, making them excellent companions to hearty winter dishes.
For lovers of French reds, Bordeaux is an unmissable choice. Left Bank options like Château Margaux or Château Lafite Rothschild boast structured tannins and blackcurrant notes that age beautifully. Meanwhile, Right Bank Merlot-dominant blends from Saint-Émilion or Pomerol provide softer textures with flavors of plum and mocha—ideal for pairing with game meats or Christmas roasts.
Rhône Reds: Spice and Warmth
The Rhône Valley offers diverse red wines that bring warmth and spice to the table during the festive season. Northern Rhône Syrahs like Côte-Rôtie or Hermitage deliver smoky black pepper notes alongside dark fruit flavors. These full-bodied wines pair wonderfully with grilled meats or rich stews.
In the Southern Rhône, Grenache-based blends such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape or Gigondas showcase red berry flavors with herbal undertones of thyme and rosemary. Their softer tannins make them versatile enough to pair with anything from turkey to vegetarian nut roasts.
Sustainable Sipping: Wines That Care
Eco-conscious choices are increasingly popular among UK consumers this year. Biodynamic and organic wines not only reflect growing environmental awareness but also offer exceptional quality. Producers like Domaine de la Romanée-Conti in Burgundy exemplify biodynamic winemaking at its finest.
From England’s vineyards to global producers in Italy and New Zealand, sustainability is shaping how wine is made and enjoyed. Look out for certifications like Demeter (biodynamic) or Organic Soil Association labels when selecting your festive bottles.
Dessert Delights: Sweet Endings
Sweet wines are experiencing a resurgence this Christmas season as perfect accompaniments to desserts or cheese boards. Bolney’s Cuvée Noir stands out as a unique sparkling red option for those looking to try something different.
For traditionalists, Sauternes from Bordeaux remains a classic choice. Château d’Yquem’s honeyed sweetness pairs beautifully with blue cheese or foie gras. Alternatively, try a late-harvest Riesling from Germany for vibrant acidity balanced by luscious sweetness—ideal for fruity desserts like mince pies.
French Classics: Burgundy, Bordeaux & Rhône Highlights
France continues to lead the charge when it comes to festive wine selections. Burgundy offers refined elegance in both reds (Pinot Noir) and whites (Chardonnay). Domaine de la Romanée-Conti Grand Cru wines are an exquisite splurge for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Bordeaux brings sophistication with its structured blends that age gracefully over decades. Whether you choose a robust Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant Left Bank wine or a plush Merlot-driven Right Bank option, these bottles are sure to impress at any Christmas feast.
The Rhône Valley adds warmth to winter celebrations with its spicy Syrahs from the north and Grenache-led blends from the south. These wines capture the essence of holiday cheer with their bold flavors and versatility at the dinner table.
Conclusion: Cheers to Festive Trends
This Christmas season promises an exciting array of wine trends that cater to every palate—from England’s sparkling gems to France’s timeless classics and sustainable global options. Whether you’re hosting an intimate family gathering or attending grand festivities, there’s no shortage of exceptional bottles to elevate your celebrations.
Explore bold reds from Bordeaux, elegant whites from Burgundy, or spicy Rhône blends as you toast to another joyous holiday season. And don’t forget sustainable choices that reflect care for our planet while delivering outstanding quality. Raise your glass this Christmas—cheers to good company, great food, and even better wine!