As Christmas ebbs and Boxing Day flows, it’s time to get on the recovery wines, so a tangy, ‘adult lemonade’, off-dry riesling is suggested for ‘hair of the dog’, and sessionable, boutique brewery lagers are dispatched for the cricket. New Year’s rears its head and I’m suddenly a Champagne expert. I’ll likely lead the cohorts into weird and wonderful pet nats, the naturally sparkling wines that have become the darling of the natural wine world. Or, at a pinch, some really excellent renditions of Australian prosecco. Alongside ‘value’ wines, I’m highlighting lighter spirits and spritz cocktails made with seasonal fruit or shrubs (cordials), and supporting local breweries. I’m also advocating ‘less is more but better’ as a mantra. Conspicuous consumption has been the rage for many years, but this season I’m pitching at elevating the experience, rather than forgetting it. Shout out for advice.
Festive wines