Mindful indulgence for wine seems like a contradiction. Part of the joy of a wee tipple is that everything, including our thinking, relaxes. Some would even say, who needs mindfulness when you have wine. So let’s get this straight this isn’t a lecture on not ‘geein it laldy’ or a post on how to be a party-pooper. It’s… all… about… the… pacing. So read on for tips on how to balance mindful indulgence for festive drinks. And of course please see part 1 and 2 of the Mindful Indulgence blogs to pair your wines with some considered choices of cheese and crackers.
SLOW SIPPERS
These first two suggestions are great gifts or festive party starters. Not just because they taste fabulous but price wise they sit a bit above your £10 for a standard bottle. So another good reason for mindful indulgence (or slow sipping) which may actually help you develop you wine nose ; )
Mas Macià Cava Brut comes in a big beautiful 150 cl bottle (see opening image). Described as having fine bubbles with a complex palate of stone fruit, apple and spice. This award-winning drink is delicious as an aperitif but can also carry itself well through any meal including Christmas dinner. Champagne Guy Laforge NV is a fantastic sparkler and worth the spend for a special treat. This classic house Champagne is fresh and bright with delicious fruit characters.
For red indulgence I’d suggest The Rude Mechanicals Three Monkeys Shiraz Grenache Mataro. Described as “animal”, with a triumph of wild cherry, spruce and invigorated oak. The name is a great conversation starter in any room (of 3 households 😉 )
QUICK QUAFFERS
Named because they are not only super drinkable but also don’t break the bank. Health is not the only thing that needs to be paced over the silly season.
Having lived 18 years in New Zealand most of my go to wine comes from down under. Mud House do an excellent range that hits all the right Xmas notes. We have two of my favourites in store, the Mud House Sauvignon Blanc and the Mud House Sauvignon Rose. They both are light citrusy wines. The Rosé rocking hints of raspberry and boasting a dry long finish. The white is sweetened by a melon twist and pairs well with goat cheese. Making me very happy!
There’s a healthy rivalry between Australia and NZ but when it comes to wine there can be many winners. Wolf Blass Yellow Label Chardonnay is said to fool many experienced sniffers into believing they are drinking a far more expensive variety. Described as a combination of classic melon and peach with a hint of vanilla. Sits very well with poultry, ideally turkey with all the Chrimbo trimmings.
YOUNG PRETENDERS (Alcohol Free Wine)
Wine science has come a long way since the first non-alcoholic wine was produced in 1869. Maybe not so young after all! These days many companies boast that they are able to lose the booze but still keep the original character of the wine. Fabulous news for Christmas and New Year revellers who wish to abstain due to health or lifestyle but still want to celebrate with a nice glass.
Rawson’s Retreat are described as being one of the best at extracting the alcohol without reducing the wine drinking pleasure. Their Cabernet Sauvignon is a stand-out. Hardy’s Chardonnay is my no.1 choice of alcohol free white wine. Easy on the palette with light notes of crisp apple and citrus. If you prefer bubbles try Nosecco Spumante. This classic floral and fruity French blend is also vegan. So you get Brownie points for health and sustainability.
Organic Option
One last mindful indulgence tip for your wine drinking pleasure is to go organic.
Adobe Reserva do an excellent organic range with their indigenous Chilean grape. The Sauvignon has a lively palette of lime and green pepper and the Cabernet Sauvignon, a lush blackcurrant aroma with a chocolate finish. Prosecco Ceradello Single Estate is my final recco and my no.1 choice of Prosecco. It has delicate fruit and floral aromas with an appealing texture and fresh finale that lasts the distance.
Organic wine is free from chemicals, flavouring and colouring, has a higher concentration of antioxidants and less sugar. In summary that equals less morning-after-mingingness.
So whether you are sprinkling your festive wine list with some of our great non-alcoholic or organic varieties, or just sipping slowly. I hope these tips help you enjoy your Christmas and New Year vinos at a healthy pace.
Cheers!
Stella*
