It's the semi-finals. Four teams, two games, one final match to decide it all.

And all four teams that have made it this far are from winemaking nations.

Whatever the results over these final games, the record of a winemaking country always winning the World Cup is guaranteed.

But who will be in that final game? France look like the best team overall. Spain feel like dark horses who could win in a closely-fought slugging match.

England and Argentina both have shown flashes of brilliance but also fraught, rather flawed performances from which they somehow emerge victorious.

And the potential finals are ripe with historic firsts. Will it be a third back-to-back final for France? A rematch against Argentina? A first-time clash against England who would be in their first final in 60 years.

Or maybe a rematch of 2024's Euros final? Spain vs England. Or, even, a first World Cup meeting between Spain and Argentina since (incredibly) 1966.

All to play for – here's what we're pairing with each match...

And if you feel the need for some... actual football analysis during this World Cup, do check in on our friends and colleagues over at FourFourTwo for all their updates and coverage.

Izzy: England

England (vs Argentina): The final four! After a rather nervy win over the Vikings on Saturday, England are through to the semi-finals for only the fourth time since 1966.

They’ll be meeting current title-holders Argentina in Atlanta, where both teams have previously pulled back from a losing position to overcome their rivals (England against DR Congo and Argentina in their dramatic win over Egypt last week).

Argentina have a particular habit of clawing back a win from the jaws of defeat, so England will need to show real grit and persistence to keep Lionel Messi at bay.

In this spirit, let’s continue to plumb the Decanter World Wine Awards for bottles that showcase the best of England winemaking, and try this platinum-winning sparkling rosé from Berkshire.

From a winery established less than 15 years ago – younger than Messi’s World Cup career – this is an extremely impressive wine, which shows the value of hard work and determination in the vineyard (as on the pitch!)

A wine that is delightfully English with rose garden, strawberry and red apple notes, it is described as an ‘allegory of national intent’ – a fitting choice for the team’s toughest match yet.

Rupert: France

France (vs Spain): Two European football and winemaking giants going head-to-head, and on Bastille Day no-less.

For two such famous footballing nations, it’s surprising that France and Spain haven’t clashed more often in major tournaments.

Spain has had the better of the most recent encounters in the Euros – beating France in the quarter-finals in 2012 and semi-finals in 2024 (going on to win those tournaments on both occasions).

The last – and in fact only – World Cup clash between the two was 20 years ago in 2006, the final hurrah of Zidane, Henry, Viera & co, and which France won (before losing in the final).*

In such circumstances it’s time to throw caution to the wind and lavish some money on a special bottle. It should be something ‘very French’ and is there anything more French than old Bordeaux?

Perhaps something from the 2006 vintage in honour of the last time these countries met.

An underrated vintage that, at 20 years old (and like this French team), is still revealing its charms, try snagging something like this Château Cos d’Estournel which continues to boast ‘abundant blackcurrant fruit and subtle hints of pepper, cedar, and smoke’.

*There was also the 5-4 Spanish victory in the semi-finals of the UEFA Nations League in 2025, but, honestly, who remembers/cares about that?

Ines: Spain

Spain (vs France): Would Spain have won its quarter-final duel if Belgium's goalie, Thibaut Courtois, hadn’t left the game injured? We’ll never know.

The road to victory is paved with unfair casualties and (a lot of) luck.

However, luck seems to often fail those who face France… La Roja needs, more than ever, to rely only on itself.

This semi-final calls for consistency, poise, nerve and resilience – the attributes of a good Ribera del Duero, such as the Finca las Dueñas Reserva from charismatic producer Francisco Barona, himself a great source of inspiration for Spanish players.

Barona's passion, work ethic and hands-on knowledge produce some of Ribera’s most exciting modern classics.

A recipe for champions?

Julie: Argentina

Argentina (vs England): A classic football rivalry – Maradona’s hand of God, David Beckham’s red card – when it comes to Argentina vs England in the World Cup heartbreak is just around the corner.

But the two sides haven’t met since Japan in 2002 (which England won) and, incredible, though it may seem, Lionel Messi has never played against England in his career.

Well, that all ends in Atlanta on Wednesday evening with two teams that have both flirted with brilliance and disaster on their tournament journeys so far.

As we’re rekindling an old footballing beef let’s keep it straightforward; a pure expression of high altitude Argentine Malbec.

Catena Zapata’s ‘Malbec Argentino’ is not only about as on-the-nose as it gets name-wise but also a wine that displays all the ‘dynamism, character and typicity’ we've come to expect from the country's wines – and their football team.

Expect, ‘juicy ripe cherry, plum, pink peach, pomegranate’ and possibly some more Messi magic.

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We're getting ever closer to that pivotal final match. Every step from the quarter finals onwards either brings further joy or empty despair.

Though might it be kinder to falter in these final stages and dream of what might have been than lose the last match of all and know you didn't make it?

Well, either way, we still have five wine teams in action from our pool: France, England, Argentina, Spain and Switzerland.

Which of them will we see again in the semi-finals? Hopefully these wine pairings will see you through a weekend of high drama and excitement.

And we recently bid farewell to two more of our original starting wine teams:

Portugal: Hearts broken yet again in a closely-fought match with Iberian neighbours, Spain. The mournful sound of fado is a popular musical genre for a reason. But they gave us some good wines along the way.

USA: No amount of presidential interference could ultimately save the USMNT from a four-goal thumping at the hands (and feet) of Belgium but here's hoping the host nation's wines have been redeemed in the eyes of many.

And if you feel the need for some... actual football analysis during this World Cup, do check in on our friends and colleagues over at FourFourTwo for all their updates and coverage.

Izzy: England

England (vs Norway): Well, Sunday night was an absolute thriller which saw the team Mexican-wave their opponents goodbye to reach the quarter finals.

But now the Vikings are coming! The Vikings are coming!

Yes, rowing their way implacably into the quarter-finals, Saturday now brings a face-off with Norway. It’s like Lindisfarne all over again.

Here's hoping England can summon up the spirit of the Anglo-Saxons’ decisive victory against Hardrada's Norwegians at Stamford Bridge in 1066 (trying to forget that Harold Godwinson's army was then overcome by the Norman-French forces at Hastings soon afterwards!).

With English history in mind, try this fabulous Blanc de Blancs from Hambledon Estate, England’s oldest commercial winery, founded in 1952.

One of two Hambledon wines to win gold at this year’s Decanter World Wine Awards (it’s medal-winning wines only from here!) it’s floral, creamy and ‘very long and compelling’ – you’ll be enjoying a slice of heritage and a true English success story.

Rupert: France

France (vs Morocco): After taking the outrageous slings and arrows of Paraguay in the last 16, France now face yet another familiar opponent in Morocco.

These two teams faced off in the semi-finals in 2022, where France emerged victorious 2-0. Will history repeat itself or will Morocco claim France like they did Spain in 2022 – and then go for a World Cup rematch against La Roja in this year’s semis?

All for the footballing gods to decide. But we can make a wine recommendation in the meantime.

Like Algeria, Morocco’s national dish is couscous. But, it is traditionally served on Fridays and this is a Thursday night game. Perhaps a tagine then?

A chicken tagine with preserved lemon and fragrant spices on a warm summer evening is calling out for a good glass of rosé.

Find yourself something really excellent from Provence, especially from the high quality appellation of Bandol.

This Mourvedre-driven blend is: ‘Spicy in flavour and texture. Full, richly fruited, with a food-friendly, dry finish.’

France 3 - Morocco 1...

Ines: Spain

Spain (vs Belgium): The Iberian duel offered a great display of good if frustratingly guarded football.

In the end, Spain triumphed with a late goal, earning its quarter-final spot against Belgium.

In different circumstances one would see this as an easy path to the semi-finals; but considering what we’ve already seen in this World Cup – and La Roja’s own tentativeness and hiccups – it’s best not to jump into conclusions.

So how can Spain respond to Belgium’s surprising, unassuming efficacy? We’ll leave it to Luis de la Fuente to strategise on the pitch.

At this end, we counter the salty richness of some good moules-frites – even Belgium’s national dish is somewhat unlikely – with Rezabal’s Txakoli Rosé.

Maybe you didn’t know that the Basque specialty could also be pink? There you have it. Spain needs that element of surprise to win this game.

Mark: Switzerland

Switzerland (vs Argentina): And so, Switzerland have made it through to the proper business end, squeaking through on penalties against Colombia.

They may well be in need of more goalkeeping heroics as the next hurdle to be cleared is reigning champions Argentina in Kansas City and the seemingly evergreen Lionel Messi.

With temperature and stakes both raised, this is an ideal opportunity to channel your inner gaucho with a red meat-laden asado.

Eschew the obvious Malbec selection and instead tap into Switzerland’s wonderful cool-climate reds, such as the 2022 Christophe Abbet, Syrah from the Valais.

It bagged a Silver medal at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards, the judges praising its ‘palate of cassis, plum, damson and a lifted acidity’; perfect for pairing with those inch-thick steaks.

Julie: Argentina

Argentina (vs Switzerland): Argentina had fans on the edge of their seats as they defeated Egypt 3-2 in a thrilling Round of 16 match, staging an astonishing late comeback from 2-0 down by scoring three goals in the final 13 minutes.

Kudos to goalscorers Cristian Romero, Enzo Fernández and of course, Lionel Messi. So now the fiery Latinos face off against the Alpine-cool Swiss in Kansas City – the scene of their opening match victory over Algeria.

Think Swiss cuisine and you probably think fondue and raclette, but El Montañista’s Criollas Blancas 2021 from Calingasta Valley in Mendoza will pair perfectly with rösti – delicious deep-fried potato cakes, originally served as breakfast to hungry farmers in Bern.

Fittingly, husband and wife winemakers Pancho Bugallo and Nuria Añó Gargiulo are avid mountaineers (montañistas) and their elegant skin-contact orange wine is textured and gently saline with delicate herbal, apple peel and nectarine flavours.

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With the Round of 32 matches all finished up, we're getting into the dark heart of the knockouts now as teams compete for a place in the quarter-finals and a chance at a dash to the championship game itself.

France and England have both secured their place in the quarters; France with a rough and tumble match against a rather malicious Paraguayan side, and England with a gloriously action-packed match against Mexico in the dreaded Azteca cauldron in the early hours of Monday morning.

In action this week we have a wine nation super-smash as Spain and Portugal go head-to-head, the USA face off against Belgium, Argentina survived a Cape Verde scare to take on Egypt, and Switzerland will take their chances against Colombia.

We've also said goodbye to two more of the winemaking nation teams we've been tracking:

Australia: A spirited performance against Egypt that took them all the way to extra time and the heartbreak of a penalty shootout.

Canada: The first of the host nations to fall. They played a last 16 spirited game against Morocco and were unlucky not to score before the North Africans hammered home three goals late in the match for a slightly unfair final score.

And if you feel the need for some... actual football analysis during this World Cup, do check in on our friends and colleagues over at FourFourTwo for all their updates and coverage.

Ines: Spain & Portugal

Spain vs Portugal: Ok, here we go. Now we get a glimpse of how La Roja can make it to the final.

In its first knock out-stage match, Spain won, decisively and clinically, against a very tame Austria, thus remaining – along with Mexico – the only team yet to concede any goals in this World Cup.

Next up is its Iberian neighbour, and historical rival.

Portugal beat Croatia in a rather painful manner, and more than a few contested referee decisions.

Its over-reliance on Cristiano Ronaldo is starting to show… But we’ve seen Portugal’s back benchers surprise before – in football as in wine!

Just look at this gorgeous oak-fermented and aged Arinto from the very underestimated Tejo region, produced by big-hearted maverick Hugo Mendes. Spain beware.

Spain has its own cats in the hat though. Have you ever tasted Escursac, a quasi-forgotten variety indigenous to Mallorca?

Soca-Rel’s chillable iteration is a good place to start.

It’s time to try it all and make it to the quarter-finals!

Mark: USA & Switzerland

USA (vs Belgium): Belgium somehow live to fight another day following their last-minute heroics (or rather drawing a most fortuitous get-out-of-jail-free card) against Senegal.

They’ll have to ramp it up against a US team that has found its groove, and regained its top scorer, Folarin Balogun – after apparent political pressure from the White House.

But let's focus on a wine and food pairing we can all get behind.

Moules-frites is a Belgian national treasure, and when it comes to a wine that can shine alongside glorious, garlic-infused mussels and cut through mayonnaise-dipped frites, the 2024 Flora Abeille, Albariño from Lodi should do the trick.

Available for £15 at Majestic, it garnered an admirable 89 points at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards, where the judges remarked: ‘Delicate nose of restrained pear and peaches, slightly creamy and rounded acidity.’

Switzerland (vs Colombia): In the previous round, Switzerland comfortably kept a meek Algeria at arm’s length. Next up is a Latin dance with Colombia.

Vancouver plays host, a city that has become a home from home for the Swiss, so let’s go full bore and dust off the fondue set. Nothing overly complex is necessary, although acidity is a pre-requisite to cut through the wonderfully fatty, unctuous cheeses.

Chasselas is an obvious go-to, although Riesling would prove a fine substitute, as would Räuschling, should you be able to track one down.

Once wildly popular and widely planted, Räuschling – a cross between Gouais and Savagnin – suffered a pronounced fall from grace, and is now only found in German-speaking areas of Switzerland, such as St-Gallen, from where hails the 2023 Weingut Höcklistein, Äfenrain Räuschling.

A Gold medal winner at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards, our suitably impressed judges remarked: ‘An untamed spectrum of yellow fruit, mesmerising basil and tarragon fragrance. Lightly textured with a fine seam of acidity perpetuating the long finish.’

Julie: Argentina

Argentina (vs Egypt): Argentina made a clean sweep through Group J with three wins, before edging out Cape Verde 3-2 in extra time during the Round of 32.

Now the reigning champions are heavily favoured to beat Egypt’s Pharaohs in the Round of 16, though with star players Lionel Messi and Mo Salah on the field in Atlanta Stadium, this will very much be a match worth watching.

Whether you’re taking comfort in Egypt's carb-loaded national dish of koshary, with rice, lentils and chick peas, or keeping things simple with a signature Argentine steak, go for the food-friendly Kaiken Disobedience by Francis Mallman 2021, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot, created in association with Argentina's star chef.

An easy-drinking, soft and savoury red – with enough structure for the table – it delivers juicy black fruit laced with notes of violets, sage and thyme.

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The Round of 32 matches are now well underway and will blend into the Round of 16 over the weekend.

With France and Canada in action on Saturday we thought we'd bring you our recommendations for their matches now and our pairings for the remaining wine teams (including England, Spain and Portugal) on Monday.

This round has also claimed a few more victims, with some of our wine nations falling by the wayside.

Germany: Despite many exquisite wine recommendations, Germany slump to another relatively early exit, this time against Paraguay. Don't worry Riesling fans, you can always drink some from Alsace while cheering on France.

Croatia: A big wine clash with Portugal eventually saw Croatia succumb after a frenetic second half and a match with goals disallowed left and right. Hopefully readers made some wine discoveries along the way.

Austria: We said their game against Spain was go big or go home for Austria. And, well, they're going home, but hopefully fans at least won in the wine stakes if they opened something suitably magnificent.

And if you feel the need for some... actual football analysis during this World Cup, do check in on our friends and colleagues over at FourFourTwo for all their updates and coverage.

Tina: Canada

Canada (vs Morocco): It’s a ‘home’ game for Team Canada at the Houston Stadium, hopefully packed out with enough visitors from the north to holler on their boys in red.

The other boys in red – with a green star, not a maple leaf – are ranked sixth in the world, and will be overwhelming favourites in this match up, no matter how inspiring the speech (or entertaining a goal celebration) from Canada’s manager Jesse Marsch.

Based on the kits, it looks like a red should be the wine choice, but I’m going for a crisp, herbal Cabernet Franc rosé to cool things down, both in the temperature stakes and the fiery on-field play.

Plus, it would be a great pairing for a classic chicken, green olive and preserved lemon tagine served with fluffy couscous.

The Fourth of July is America’s national day, but it comes only a few days after Canada Day (1 July), so maybe a victory in Houston is cause for united celebration?

Rupert: France

France (vs Paraguay): After a scintillating performance against Sweden, France have become this competition’s hottest team and most talked-about team.

Now they face the surprise vanquishers of Germany – Paraguay – in the city of brotherly love (Philadelphia) in what will be sweltering conditions.

You, of course, may be a connoisseur of Paraguay’s distinct and varied cuisine, but many of us may find it easier to throw together a classic sandwich like the Philly Cheesesteak.

Sliced beef, some onions, cheese, throw it in a hoagie roll; make it fancy or keep it simple, add your own twist on the classic. But what to pair it with?

There’s not a clear answer here but something red and with the kind of silky oomph that Kylian Mbappé puts into one of his strikes from outside the box.

Cabernet Franc from the Loire would work well with its juicy red-black fruit and savoury touch, or perhaps head southwest and match with a more fruit-forward but still meaty Cahors Malbec.

But what about this Mourvedre-driven bottle from Terrasses du Larzac in the Languedoc.

‘Sweet-fruited, concentrated and endlessly fluid,’ wrote reviewer Natalie Earl, sounds rather like this French attack. Allez les bleus!

Izzy: England

England (vs Mexico): The country is feeling extremely grateful for Harry Kane after he rescued England in a much nervier than anticipated knockout match against DR Congo, with the Lions beating the Leopards 2-1 in the end.

The team is now heading to Mexico for the first time in the competition, where they’ll need to adjust quickly to the 2,200m altitude of the Azteca Stadium, a tough task.

England’s certainly not famous for high altitude wines – not many of the country’s vineyards sit above about 100m.

From the best of our low-lying vines, though, come this year’s DWWA winners – try this silver-winning Sauvignon Blanc from Gloucestershire.

Light and zingy, it would make a lovely pairing for fish tacos, and notes of jalapeños feel more than appropriate for a match against Mexico…

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With the group stages finished we're into the real hurly-burly of the World Cup and its knockout stages.

Unlike a few occasions in this much larger competition, from now on every goal, every game – and every wine recommendation – carries the sweet tang of jeopardy.

We've already said goodbye to a few of our 'wine teams', notably:

Uruguay: A rather flat-footed finish for the Uruguayans who exit in round one despite Ines' excellent wine proposals.

Turkey: Izzy tried her best but it was a frustrating experience for the Turks who only won when they were already eliminated.

New Zealand: Great wine country as Natalie endeavoured to show, but a little lacking in the football department. Early doors for the All Whites who'll have to drown their sorrows with Sauvignon Blanc back home.

South Africa: James' fine South African recommendations undoubtedly lifted Bafana Bafana into the knockouts but – without a wine pairing due to the scheduling – they fell at the first hurdle against Tina's wine team, Canada.

However, although we are down a few teams, all of our participants are still in the game with at least one wine team still active and in with a chance.

An uptick in the footballing stakes means a corresponding uptick in skilful wine pairing and selections as well.

In this round of 32 there's everything from Argentine Semillon to a high-class Douro Valley red, and a sweet Swiss wine, we pair earthy Burgundian Pinot Noir with meatballs, and go back to classic German precision and a slightly more unusual Australian red...

And if you feel the need for some... actual football analysis during this World Cup, do check in on our friends and colleagues over at FourFourTwo for all their updates and coverage.

Ines: Spain

Spain (vs Austria): Right, there’s no more room for hesitations and mistakes.

Spain meets Austria at the gates of the knock-out stage – after a narrow win against Uruguay – without the shimmering assurance with which it glowed when it arrived at its base camp in Chattanooga, Tennessee in early June.

If La Roja wants to get back on the likely-champion track it needs to step up the game and not underestimate its opponents.

People once underestimated Austrian wines and look at them now, with pride of place on the world’s coolest wine bars and lists. There’s a lesson there for Spanish footballers.

But Spain also knows a thing or two about overlooked, hidden gems and unexpected excellence.

The Spanish team will be fine if they perform as well as Stratum Wines’ El Cerrico, a truly superb white from a region (Jumilla) underestimated by most and unknown by many.

A take of the unassuming Airén that is confident, characterful and technically exact – just what a champion needs to be.

Julie: Argentina & Australia

Argentina (vs Cape Verde): Plucky underdogs Cape Verde have been one of this World Cup’s great stories but their run must surely end against a very strong Argentine side.

Having jogged through the group stages, Messi & co will no doubt stay clinical and efficient in muggy Miami.

Matching the complexity of the brilliant striker’s footwork and staying cool in the process, tuck into one of Argentina’s most underrated assets – its white wines.

The El Enemigo Semillon from the province of Mendoza is ‘another little gem in the Tesco range’, available for under £20 and shows all the same complexity, richness and capacity to age as Lionel himself.

Australia (vs Egypt): The Socceroos’ faintly scattergun performance in the group stages was enough to see them through and now they get to meet Egypt, the group-stage foe of their fellow Antipodeans the Kiwis.

The Pharaohs saw off New Zealand 3-1 in Group G, can Australia provide more of a contest? It’s going to take pace, power, a bit of grit, and maybe something just a little bit unexpected.

Why not, therefore, a bottle of incredibly moreish Australian Montepulciano?

That’s right, not a Shiraz or a Cab or a Grenache but this Italian variety, its fresh fruit ‘tinged with dried rose petal and savoury herbs’ and just ‘a hint of liquorice spice’.

James: Portugal

Portugal (vs Croatia): Portugal and Croatia clash at Toronto Stadium in what will potentially be the most emotionally charged fixture in the first knockout round.

Portugal missed out on the top spot in Group K after only managing a draw against Colombia. Meanwhile, Group L runners up Croatia rallied to defeat Ghana 2-1, dragging themselves up from what was looking like a third-place finish in England's group.

Facing off against each other in this match are superstars Cristiano Ronaldo (41) and Luka Modrić (40), former Real Madrid teammates who will each stop at nothing to see their respective teams make it through to the next round of the World Cup, where they will face either Spain or Austria.

Prats & Symington's 'Chryseia' from Portugal's Douro Valley is a layered and complex wine that mirrors the finessed football you're bound to see on your screens during this fixture.

Deep and gently smoky, it's a perfect match for all sorts of grilled meats and root vegetables.

Natalie: Germany

Germany (vs Paraguay): With their knockout berth already guaranteed, Germany looked a little sleepy and lacklustre in a surprise loss to Ecuador in their last group game.

Time to sharpen up now against another South American opponent, and with a potential clash against France on the cards next, die Mannschaft need to get their heads back in the game.

And what better way than going back to a tried and tested classic? This Mosel Riesling from Fritz Haag delivers timeless German precision, delicately balancing a natural sweetness and rich, tropical fruit flavours with a refreshing acidity.

Deft, assured and impressive, so wie der wein, so wie der fußball.

Tina: Croatia & Canada

Croatia (vs Portugal): Croatia haven’t made it easy for themselves so far, with an opening loss to England and then a lacklustre win against Panama.

But they showed some tenacity and flair in their final game against Ghana, thanks to Man of the Match Petar Sucic and a last-gasp winner from Nikola Vlasic to take them to second in Group L.

This wine nation head-to-head against Portugal requires all that persistence and finesse, and then some.

So for that, let’s go for a Malvazija from Istria. Or how about a Platinum-winning brace from this year’s Decanter World Wine Awards, if you think that’s what the winning margin might be?

Bastiàn’s 2023 Marchiori is described as ‘thrilling’ and ‘elegant’, but I’m leaning towards Bruno Ferenac’s 2024, which has ‘striking’ acidity and ‘great ageing potential displayed’.

That’s Luka Modrić right there!

Rupert: France & Austria

France (vs Sweden): France cruised past Norway in their final group game, with the Norwegian manager choosing not to put up much of a fight and benching most of his top players.

France get another crack at a Scandinavian opponent in the knockout round though, against Group F’s third-place finisher Sweden. And playing Sweden in New York means only one thing – meatballs (with a chance of football)!

Now, like many wine pairings, it’s the sauce that we’re really trying to match. Italian-style meatballs with their rich tomato sauce require a red wine with matching acidity – a Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley would be a solid choice.

However, Swedish meatballs have a cream sauce which really calls for a Pinot Noir.

It’s still a little early to be really pushing the boat out on Burgundy but Denis Carré’s La Perrière from the Hautes Côtes with its ‘hints of earth, spice, and smoke’, and a silky but solid structure sounds like a very good match-up.

Austria (vs Spain): Austria showed they were capable of dishing out goals in the group matches but they struggled against top-class competitors Argentina.

Now they’re up against Spain, who didn’t seem quite as on-pace as many expected pre-tournament.

If Austria can unfurl its goal-scoring potential maybe a shock upset could be on the cards…

And nothing in Austrian wine is more unfurled than the splendidly baroque labels of Emmerich Knoll.

Maybe it's a little too soon to be cracking into a magnificent Smaragd Riesling but this is definitely a winner takes all game from Austria's point of view so it's fitting to go all in on a wine with the requisite 'spice and flair' for the occasion.

Mark: USA & Switzerland

USA (vs Bosnia & Herzegovina): The San Francisco Bay Area Stadium boasts a capacity of 68,500, a suitably impressive arena for a raucous atmosphere and a USA team that seems to have discovered a higher gear.

Bosnia-Herzegovina have already gone further than in their previous and only World Cup appearance in making it out of the groups, but they will be up against it.

Bosnia-Herzegovina’s cuisine is a glorious mish-mash, although stews feature heavily, so it shouldn’t be too challenging rustling one up in their team’s honour and enjoying the result (Team USA!) with a glass or two of the 2023 Clos du Val Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, full of ‘dark purple fruit and black cherries, seasoned by vanilla and coffee’, and a 90-pointer at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards.

Switzerland (vs Iran): The Swiss keep on truckin’, this time laying their hat at BC Place Vancouver in Canada. Here they face Algeria, the two-time African champions making their fifth World Cup appearance and whose manager, Vladimir Petković, previously coached the Swiss – a delicious twist.

Couscous-accompanied stews run through Algerian cuisine, but the country is also renowned for its honey-soaked pastries.

If you’re angling towards the latter, therefore, consider tapping into Switzerland's wonderful reputation for sweet wines, such as the Jean-René Germanier, Mitis Réserve De Vétroz Amigne, Balavaud 2022 from the Valais.

Recently awarded 95 points at the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards, and praised for ‘amassing pineapple, mango, passionfruit and papaya on the nose, and binding creamy cardamom and pastry around the delectable palate’.

Izzy: England

England (vs DR Congo): And to the knockouts! England’s first match in this next stage of the competition will be against DR Congo, who have so far put in an impressive performance in their first entry to the World Cup in 52 years, particularly in a 1-1 draw against Portugal.

For a wine to pair with DR Congo’s national dish, hearty tomato stew Moambe chicken, try Mark’s and Spencer’s English Orange wine, a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Ortega.

Fermented on skins in a mixture of stainless steel, oak and amphora, this wine has the acidity to cut through the richness of the stew, but with Vermouth-like notes to complement its peanut butter and spicy flavours.

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It's game three of the group stages which means it's crunch time for a number of teams.

For many of our wine teams, a place in the next round is already assured. For a few more this game will decide a) if they get to progress and b) in what position. With third place qualifications being allowed this time, it's all to play for for a hopeful few.

And, sadly, for a couple of our teams it's already looking like an early exit and back home to try again in four years' time.

But, whether you're able to watch your team's final match in comfortable ease or on tenterhooks or with thwarted ambitions, we hope we can offer a few wine choices to match, with this week's pairings including a sparkling Canadian icewine, a pairing of Zweigelt and couscous, a crisp Vinho Verde and a trans-Atlantic battle of Mencías.

And if you feel the need for some... actual football analysis during this World Cup, do check in on our friends and colleagues over at FourFourTwo for all their updates and coverage.

Ines: Spain & Uruguay

Spain vs Uruguay: Well, things are definitely not going according to plan for Spain. La Roja was stunned by a surprisingly effective Cape Verde and their overnight-star goalkeeper Vozinha.

The European champions went into the game thinking it would be an easy win but the first-time-qualified Cape Verdians bravely held them to a draw.

Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, gave Spain enough space to show its true colours.

Meanwhile, Uruguay has been irregularly regular with two draws but very different performances, leaving fans at once hopeful and concerned.

It’s safe to say that both need to focus and chill out! As they prepare to face each other, it’s not a bad idea if they pick up a chillable bottle of red and find some invigorating, chiseled energy.

Maybe a battle of Mencías? Telmo Rodriguez’s Gaba Mencía has a good match (all puns intended) in Marichal’s Creatura – the same grape, the same ocean, two very different ways of interpreting both.

Classicism vs creativity; precision vs. mischief. Signs of things to happen on the field?

Julie: Argentina & Australia

Argentina (vs Jordan): With six points under its belt after defeating Austria and Algeria, Argentina has already qualified for the final 32, ahead of its final Group J match against Jordan.

What’s more, Lionel Messi is now the top goalscorer in the 2026 competition and became the World Cup's all-time record goalscorer as his double against Austria took his count to a phenomenal 18 goals.

So whatever the outcome of the Jordan match, it's cause for celebration with a bottle from one of Argentina’s leading sparkling producers, Cruzat.

Finca La Dama NV is a single-vineyard cuveé from Vista Flores in Uco, with chalky minerality and precise acidity giving complexity and finesse.

Australia (vs Paraguay): The Socceroos are currently sitting second in Group D, as their initial 2-0 victory against Turkey was countered with a 2-0 defeat to the United States.

So now it's everything to play for, as a win or a draw in their final group match against Paraguay in San Francisco would take them through to the knockout stages.

Fans attending the match may well be fuelling up on one of the city’s famous Mission-style burritos.

Pair it with Shaw + Smith Shiraz 2021 from the Adelaide Hills, packed with plum and black cherry fruit framed by savoury black olives and smoked charcuterie; well balanced with a fresh and lively finish.

James: Portugal & South Africa

Portugal (vs Colombia): Miami Stadium is expected to turn into a sea of yellow for this blockbuster match against Colombia.

It’s likely to be a fiery face off full of energy and emotion.

Pick up a bottle of Cozs’ ‘Pop Branco’ white and settle down with bowls of salty snacks to comfort you as you sit on the edge of your seat.

South Africa (vs South Korea): Will underdogs South Africa be able to absorb the Korean pressure and make it out of the group stage?

Sit down and enjoy the clash with Riebeek Cellars’ ‘A Fistful of Shiraz’, a delicious pairing for Korean fried chicken with a soy and garlic glaze thanks to its precise and crunchy dark fruits.

Natalie: Germany & New Zealand

Germany (vs Ecuador): Germany arrive in New Jersey on Thursday 25 June after putting nine goals past Curaçao and Ivory Coast combined.

Ecuador, meanwhile, have zero goals to their name so far this tournament.

Nagelmann’s team should complete this stage with minimum fuss, as they cruise into the next round.

Pour something equally unfussy and joyful with this thirst quenching Rheinhessen Riesling from Waitrose :

New Zealand (vs Ivory Coast): New Zealand may be a more established wine region than Belgium, but it's the opposite when it comes to football.

New Zealand are going to need more than their reputation for great Sauvignon Blanc to see them through their next match and salvage any chance of staying in the competition.

Maybe they can try with something a bit more left field, like this rosé made from Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot.

Tina: Croatia & Canada

Croatia (vs Ghana): These two nations face each other in Philadelphia for the last match of their Group L campaigns.

And it promises to be a juicy affair if the vibrancy of their young stars (Ghana’s Caleb Yirenkyi, aged 20, and 19-year-old Luka Vuskovic of Croatia) show what they are made of.

Whether they do or they don’t, you’ll still get all the youthful exuberance and bold, juicy character in this Teran from Istria which, like these young stars, is impressive now but has a long future ahead.

Canada (vs Switzerland): The final game for these two Group B nations again plays out at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver.

With Canada one of the joint hosts, and playing before a home crowd, I’m banking for a win (ok, I’ll settle for a draw) to advance them to the final 32.

To manifest success, I’m going with winners from the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards.

For a local Okanagan Valley white, I’d go for this 96-point Chardonnay Gold from Cedar Creek but to toast a sparkling performance and sweet victory, it has to be this Platinum-winning Vidal Blanc Icewine.

Rupert: France & Austria

France (vs Norway): The last time France faced the vikings it led to the creation of Normandy.

And France’s back four are going to have to form an impenetrable shieldwall against Norway’s line-breaking striker Erling Haaland in this deciding clash for control of the group.

Like their forebears, Norway’s team no doubt powered by copious amounts of fårikål – mutton and cabbage stew.

A hearty dish, it calls for an equally hearty wine to suit a meaty game, so why not grab a bottle of something from Bordeaux’s right bank – like this 100% Merlot from Lussac St-Emilion with notes of sweet blackberry jam, cedar and smoky spice.

Austria (vs Algeria): Has anyone ever paired Austrian wine with couscous before?

Maybe now’s the time to start in this Group J decider.

Algeria’s emblematic dish of rice with a stew of spiced vegetables and meat normally calls for a good fruity red and I reckon Austria’s Zweigelt is an ideal choice.

Try something like this from Burgenland with its soft, ripe cherry, plum and blackcurrant fruit and a twist of peppery spice.

Mark: USA & Switzerland

USA (vs Turkey): Turkish cuisine is a melange of influences from around the world. In this weather you may well be breaking out the barbie, and laying on a few kebabs would be a fine idea.

A lighter Zinfandel would be dextrous enough to cope with the style of kebab that you prefer, and the wildly unconventional’ Arnot Roberts, Kirschenmann Vineyard Zinfandel from Lodi with its ‘fresh red and blue fruits’ would suit just fine

Switzerland (vs Canada): The pair are joint top of their group and almost dead certs to progress to the next round, so this might turn into a glorified friendly.

Perhaps take a similar approach to your wine pick, something that possesses an easy personality.

Chasselas is arguably Switzerland’s signature white grape and is renowned for its light body and low alcohol.

A recent standout example from the 2026 Decanter World Wine Awards is the 90-pt Domaine Du Feuillerage, Perroy Chasselas.

Just 11.8% alcohol, and praised for its ‘inviting nose of yellow apple, pear and orchard fruit; juicy apple and a crisp acidity on the vibrant palate’.

Izzy: England & Turkey

England (vs Panama): Despite putting in a rather pedestrian performance in their goalless draw against Ghana, England shouldn’t need to worry too much going into their final first-round match, their spot in the knockouts all but guaranteed.

For a refreshing, easy-drinking sparkling rosé that will go down well in the heat (and the UK has been hotter than Panama recently!) try The Grange’s Pink Brut.

‘Feather-light’ and bursting with red berries, it rated highly in a recent panel tasting and will make a delightful accompaniment to the match on Saturday.

Turkey (vs USA): Turkey’s final first round match will be against hosts USA in Los Angeles’ Inglewood Stadium, but they're only playing for pride at this point with two losses putting them out of the competition.

For a wine that punches above its weight in value and which would certainly impress your hosts, try this refined and smoky Oküzgözü.

The winery, Doluca, celebrates its centenary this year – let’s hope it can find something else to celebrate other than the Turkish team's performance.

Related articles

Our wine-producing countries got off to a mixed start to this World Cup.

South Africa lost 2-0 to co-hosts Mexico (and taking two red cards into the bargain), while Canada and Switzerland only managed score-draws in their games.

But the USA and Australia rallied to solid wins and Germany absolutely thumped poor Curaçao at the weekend (Natalie's choice of dry Riesling obviously the perfect pick).

Hopefully anyone taking our wine recommendations wasn't disappointed with the results; either on the pitch or in the glass.

There are two more wine-country head-to-heads this week as the Socceroos take on the USA, and Argentina and Austria clash in an epic dance-off for control of Group J.

There are Cabernet Sauvignons galore, sweet Croatian Muscats, Pinot Noir from Essex and a Bordeaux blend from Turkey's coast among our recommendations for the second round of group stage matches.

And if you feel the need for some... actual football analysis during this World Cup, do check in on our friends and colleagues over at FourFourTwo for all their updates and coverage.

Ines: Spain & Uruguay

Spain (vs Saudi Arabia): Next up on Spain’s path to possible World Cup glory is Saudi Arabia, a country that has been – with the not-so-soft power of its petrodollars – desperately trying to attract Spanish talent to its new yet lavish league, where certain players such as Ronaldo are already padding their retirement funds.

It’s only fitting that Spain comes out in all its own opulent glory for this match.

Never a better time to splurge on an iconic bottle such as CVNE’s Imperial Gran Reserva.

Uruguay (vs Cape Verde): In a true Atlantic battle, Uruguay is next up against Cape Verde.

Likely an easy win for the South American country but… it’s football, nothing is a given. Best to relax and get into the flow of the game – very much as surfers become one with the ocean.

For inspiration make space in the fridge for Alma Surfer Dolcetto from Pablo Fallabrino (an avid surfer himself), a light, zesty and vibrant take on the Italian variety that is just the thing to keep the mind clear and body fresh.

Julie: Argentina & Australia

Argentina (vs Austria): The reigning world champions travel to Dallas to play Austria in their second match of the opening round – and it’s a perfect excuse for a battle of the signature white grapes of both countries.

While Austria is famous for its mineral Grüner Veltliner, Argentina flies the flag for aromatic Torrontes.

And the queen of Torrontes is winemaker Susana Balbo. Try her Signature Barrel Fermented Torrontés 2024 from Uco Valley, saline and mineral, with juicy citrus intensity and floral notes, ripe melon and pear.

Australia (vs USA): The Socceroos take on one of the host nations USA in their second match of the championships. So what better excuse for a New World Cabernet head-to-head against Napa Cab?

Take a punt on the excellent 2022 vintage Cabernets from Margaret River in Western Australia, whose wines are worthy contenders on a global stage.

Try the Moss Wood Wilyabrup Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, one of the three top scorers in our latest Margaret River vintage report (97pts) – juicy and structured, fluid and effortless, it’s an energetic Cabernet packed with youthful exuberance.

James: Portugal & South Africa

Portugal (vs Uzbekistan): Will Portugal’s flowing, attacking style be able to overcome the disciplined defence of underdogs Uzbekistan, coached by Italian legend Fabio Cannavaro?

Polished and supple with anchovy, briny black olives and juicy plum, Quinta de Chocapalha’s Castelão is sure to charm.

Its herbal side makes it a great match for smoked ribs served with homemade rosemary fries.

South Africa (vs Czech Republic): After a bruising defeat to Mexico in the opener, South Africa tackle the Czech Republic in Atlanta for their second game.

Mullineux’s ‘Kloof Street Swartland Rouge’ is a fantastic value blend of Syrah, Grenache and Cinsault.

Vibrant and sweet fruited, it’s a great pairing for barbecued meats and vegetables accompanied by a summery salad.

Natalie: Germany & New Zealand

Germany (vs Ivory Coast): The vibrant cuisine of Ivory Coast features dishes such as kedjenou, a spicy, concentrated chicken and vegetable stew.

German wines could be a successful match for this flavoursome dish. One option could be a Riesling with some residual sugar, like this Auslese, where its dried mandarin and honey characters would chime with the stew’s spicing.

Or opt for a fruit-forward Spatburgunder like this great value version from Albert Glas.

New Zealand (vs Egypt): New Zealand will be playing Egypt in their second match.

The Pharaohs will be captained by the legendary Mohamed Salah – can the 34-year old maintain the same ‘youthful lift and energy’ that this beautiful Kiwi Pinot Noir shows?

Tina: Croatia & Canada

Croatia (vs Panama): Panama hosts Croatia in Toronto in this round of the group stage, and it looks set to be a one-sided affair.

Even with their ‘mature’ squad (four key players are aged over 30) Croatia always seems to showcase their best at the big tournaments.

So if we’re looking for maturity and top performances, this sweet Muscat is the ideal pick.

It scored 97-points at a Decanter Wines of the Year tasting and is seemingly eternal, with a drinking window to 2080 (hopefully they won't make Modric play that long)!

Canada (vs Qatar): The Reds of Canada play The Maroons of Qatar in Vancouver this round, so that provides some strong symbolism as to the colour wine you need to have in your glass when watching this duel.

So how about this weirdly wonderful yet appropriate duet of reds from a winery in Naramata in the Okanagan Valley, which co-ferments local Pinot Noir with Syrah from Washington's Horse Heaven Hills.

Rupert: France & Austria

France (vs Iraq): Dominated by the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, Iraq’s national dish is masgouf *– or grilled carp. But, like their team against these Middle Eastern minnows, France’s versatile wine choice is more than a match for this particular fishy dish.

Muscadet or Alsatian Pinot Blanc are an excellent match for carp’s light and delicate flavour but the grilled aspect might overpower these lighter wines.

A good white Burgundy with more body and some subtle oak would therefore be a good match. Something from the Maconnais such as a Pouilly-Fuissé or St-Véran have the requisite finesse and oomph for the occasion.

*As it happens, a fan of masgouf was former French president Jacques Chirac, who ate it with Saddam Hussein in the 1970s. History does not relate what wine might have flowed at that particular dinner.

Austria (vs Argentina): Fiery Argentine Tango meets Austria’s elegant waltz this week on the pitch in Dallas.

Austrian reds can’t quite match those of Argentina for sheer power and ripe polish, but they can for elegance and charm.

A Blaufränkisch from the famous Leithaberg hills would keep any Malbec on its toes.

Try this from Heinrich which our expert tasting panel recently described as: ‘Layered, mature. Super-refined, graceful tannins backed by vibrant freshness.’

Mark: USA & Switzerland

USA (vs Australia): It's a clash of New World winemaking titans this week with USA against Australia.

Let’s keep it solid at the back (palate), firm through the middle and flashy upfront; so it has to be Napa Cabernet.

Realm Cellars, The Bard from Calistoga is a suitably swish offering. Fine, rich, opulent and neatly oaked, with layers of dark berry, graphite and truffle, all framed within ultra-fine tannins.

There are worse ways to potentially drown your sorrows.

Switzerland (vs Bosnia-Herzegovina): Swiss fans will be aiming to stay cool and collected in glitzy LA against a potential banana-skin Bosnian side.

Often underestimated, the Swiss have made it out of the group stages in each of the last three World Cups, but a surprise draw with Qatar means they need a win.

Channel your inner, crampon-wearing, Alpine alter ego and break out the fondue alongside a bottle of Weinbau Thomas Studach, Malanser Chardonnay.

It’s juicy, displaying ripe orchard fruit balanced by crystalline acidity and gentle salinity.

Its cool, lingering finish reflects a style shaped by a distinct mountain register. Perfect.

Izzy: England & Turkey

England (vs Ghana): Next up for England will be a far-from-easy match against Ghana, where several members of England’s squad will be up against their own Manchester City teammate in star attacker Antoine Semenyo.

If you’re thinking of enjoying some Ghanaian cuisine for the match, why not fufu and spicy tomato stew with a bright, fruity Pinot Noir?

This vibrant and refreshing wine from the Crouch Valley should pair well with light but spicy soup Nkrakra, and can be enjoyed lightly chilled.

Turkey (vs Paraguay): Turkey’s next match will be against fellow outsiders Paraguay; based on the teams’ recent form it looks as though Turkey should take the three points but they’ll still need to bring something special to be sure of it.

One thing that certainly sets Turkey apart from landlocked Paraguay is its stunning coastline – also where a lot of its most impressive wines are made.

The team should channel some of the energy of this ‘light on its feet’ Bordeaux blend from Izmir on the Aegean Coast to secure victory.

Related articles

The World Cup is here!

Like many others, here at Decanter we've felt the touch of a little touch of football-fever at the return of this ultimate sporting event.

And, like many of you too no doubt, we've created a pool to make watching the tournament a little more exciting.

But we've added a wine twist.

A great many of the teams at the World Cup are wine producers and, in fact, a wine-producing country (to at least some degree) has lifted every trophy since the event began in 1930 – Uruguay, Italy, (West) Germany, Argentina, Brazil, England, France and Spain.

With that in mind, we decided to split the 16 biggest wine-producing nations between the eight of us, with each match of the competition bringing you a wine recommendation for each of our teams based on criteria such as their opponent, or their playing style, where they're playing etc.

Just like any pool, you're in until your team(s) out. And we'll see if a winemaking nation can lift the prize again in the USA...

And if you feel the need for some... actual football analysis during this World Cup, do check in on our friends and colleagues over at FourFourTwo for all their updates and coverage.

Who's who?

A quick overview of our pool members and who they will be covering.

Ines Salpico: Our Regional Editor for Spain, Portugal and South America has come up trumps with two teams in her realm of expertise: strong favourites Spain and mercurial Uruguay.

Julie Sheppard: Our Australia, New Zealand and South Africa Editor, likewise pulled one of her regular countries, Australia, but she also drew the reigning champions – Argentina! Lots of steaks and bold reds incoming.

James Button: There was no likelihood of our Italy Editor drawing Italy because they, umm, didn't qualify (again). Nonetheless, he has plenty to recommend in these group stages with Portugal and South Africa.

Natalie Earl: Our France Editor is likewise beyond her usual remit with plucky football underdogs New Zealand but also die Mannschaft itself, Germany. A lot of fine white wines and sumptuous Pinot Noirs in store from both, but it's the Germans you'll be hearing about longest.

Tina Gellie: A rush of pride for our Content Director Tina, who drew her native Canada in their home World Cup, however, she'll be banking on the more formidable Croatia if she wants to be making recommendations in the later stages.

Rupert Millar: A fine draw for Premium's Assistant Editor with a bullish Austria but also the crème de la crème of big name wine teams – France. Rupert's got a veritable chocolate box of recommendations to draw from.

Mark O'Halleron: The good ol' USA goes to Premium sub-editor, Mark. Our expansive US coverage means he has plenty of wines to choose from but will the US mens' team give him the opportunity to draw upon it deep into the competition? Or will cool-headed Switzerland be the longer-term banker?

Izzy Porter: And there it is – England! You'll need the wine recommendations to cope with the stress. Will there be corks popping at the end? Our Special Projects Assistant also drew Turkey, which will give her a chance to brush up on her Öküzgözü and Boğazkere in their group stages head-to-head with Australia.

Ines: Spain & Uruguay

Spain: Spain arrives at this year’s competition as reigning European champions and with the vivid memory of their 2010 World Cup win.

Will Luis de la Fuente, Lamine Yamal (2025 Ballon d'Or runner-up) and Nico Williams work their magic again?

La Roja will likely breeze through their first match against Cape Verde so the players might want to remain focused yet relaxed on their first week across the pond.

Viña Zorzal’s pink Garnacha is the very definition of laidback focus and will be a good option to keep Spanish players and supporters both refreshed and nurtured.

Uruguay: Uruguay has had a bumpy ride in the lead up to this World Cup…

Internal fighting and a lack of scoring have them land on North American soil with uncertainty and trepidation.

Still, like a good Tannat, the team has a fleshy, vibrant core in midfield trio Federico Valverde, Manuel Ugarte and Rodrigo Bentancur.

Grab a bottle of Pisano’s Progreso Tannat Reserve, enjoy its fragrant, easy-drinking style and trust that the Uruguayan team delivers the same lively, enjoyable finish in its first match against Saudi Arabia.

Julie: Argentina & Australia

Argentina: For their opening match against Algeria, the reigning world champions Argentina will travel to Kansas City, home of the slow-smoked barbecue, burnt ends and beefy KC strip.

If you’re planning to cheer on the great Lionel Messi with a similarly meaty feast, you’d better reach for a bottle of Argentina’s signature grape Malbec, which pairs perfectly with steaks and char-grilled meats.

Try the rich and structured Bodega Norton Malbec Reserva 2024 from Mendoza, packed with vibrant black cherry and dark plummy fruit, plus dark chocolatey tannins. A wine fit for champions…

Australia: Vines were first planted in Australia in 1788, but the country doesn’t boast such a long World Cup history.

Playing Turkey in Round One won’t be an easy match; Turkey reached the semi-finals in 2002, taking third place, and the current squad includes Real Madrid midfielder Arda Guler.

So Australia needs to stay on its feet. What better than a light and lively Grenache from McLaren Vale?

Try Gary’s Vineyard Grenache 2023, a detailed and dancing wine, with Negroni-like herbal and dried orange peel aromas. It’s made by Mark Bulman, the first person ever to win the famous Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy for a Grenache – let’s hope some of his winner’s luck rubs off…

James: Portugal & South Africa

Portugal: Portugal take on DRC (no, not that DRC!) in their first match. Will Cristiano, in his record sixth World Cup, fire on all cylinders?

The drum-beating Congolese fans will be doing all they can to push their team forward.

Niepoort’s ‘Redoma Reserva Branco’ will capture all the energy of the 72,000-capacity stadium in Houston, with its flinty, floral and waxy character, vivid acidity and an assertive backbone that helps it match with a variety of snacks while you watch.

Great value for the quality, too.

South Africa: South Africa travel to Mexico City for the first clash of the 2026 World Cup, against the co-hosts.

What better way to kick off than with Blank Bottle’s ‘Confessions of a White Glove Chaser’, a delicious Cab Franc-Cab Sauv blend from Stellenbosch which comes in at under £20.

Enjoy with homemade fajitas to really get into the spirit of things!

Natalie: Germany & New Zealand

Germany: World Cup champions in 2014, Germany will be laser focused on joining Italy and Brazil with an elite fifth tournament victory – and with a team based around the world-class Bayern Munich club, they’re in for a fighting chance.

But will manager Julian Nagelsmann, known for being rather explosive on the sidelines, keep his cool under the Texan sun?

Perhaps he’ll need a refreshing glass of this bone-dry Riesling to cool down. They’re playing the smallest nation to ever qualify for the World Cup, the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao.

Popular with diving enthusiasts – will they be diving for saves in their first match? – it’s famous for its Blue Bay and Blue Curaçao drink. Let’s hope there’s no Blue Nun in sight.

New Zealand: What better way to cheer on New Zealand’s football team – the All Whites – than with a pungent and instantly recognisable Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.

This Wairau Cove Reserve doesn’t hold back, and neither should the All Whites, giving a sucker punch of green and tropical fruit (no punches thrown in the match though, boys).

It’s hugely aromatic and in your face, just the kind of attitude the All Whites will need against the string of strong players in the Iranian team.

Tina: Croatia & Canada

Croatia: Luka Modrić, Croatia’s football GOAT, and now aged 40, will lead his team out for their first game of this year’s World Cup in Dallas, Texas, to face England, captained by Harry Kane.

In their nine duels to date, England narrowly lead by five wins to three, so it could be a nervous watch.

For an equally nervy white wine, with high acidity and focused fruit, try examples from the Pošip grape variety, which mainly comes from the region of Dalmatia.

Stina’s minerally 2024 Pošip, from the limestone soils of Korčula island, has all the vibrant citrusy notes to keep you laser focused on the match.

Like the England team nickname, Damatia’s coat of arms also boasts three lions, so which one will prevail?

Canada: Co-host Canada has its first home game of the 2026 World Cup in Toronto, the country’s largest city, and home to a sizeable population with Bosnian ancestry – apt given their opponents.

So this should be a lively match, befitting of a lively wine. And what better than a deliciously vibrant Gamay from the Niagara Peninsula, an hour down the coast from the stadium.

Malivoire’s 2024 Gamay from the Wismer-Foxcroft vineyard on Twenty Mile Bench has crunchy acidity and succulent cherry-cranberry flavours.

It’s a perfect bottle for either your bacon sandwich (made from famous Canadian peameal bacon) or a flatbread filled with ćevapi, a grilled minced meat sausage that is Bosnia’s national dish.

Rupert: France & Austria

France: The top-ranked team in the world going into this World Cup, France have a spicy first game against one of Africa’s best teams – Senegal.

Les bleus will need to keep their cool in the increasingly sultry New York heat against a country known for both sizzling footwork and cuisine.

Mbappé & co should take inspiration from the Loire Valley’s Chenin Blancs, effortlessly taut, complex and an ideal match with a variety of hot and spicy dishes.

Look to Saumur for something more easy-going or Savennières for a wine with real drive.

Austria: The Austrians will be looking to make a strong first impression in their first game against low-ranked debutants Jordan.

Their manager prefers an attacking style but there’s (probably) no need for anything too fancy at this stage. Just keep it nice and clean and uncomplicated.

ÖFB followers should kick back and ease themselves into the competition with a classic Grüner Veltliner.

Mark: USA & Switzerland

USA: The co-host’s run up to the World Cup has been underwhelming. Paraguay, back on the big stage for the first time since 2010, represent the first hurdle.

They might not be anyone's favourites for the tournament but Paraguay aren't to be underestimated either.

Perhaps the US is best served matching Paraguayan pride with a grape that the US has arguably made its own – Zinfandel.

Ridge’s iteration, Geyserville, from Sonoma County, is a stunning example, one that pairs velvety power with a dash of elegance and flair, something that the US may well need to draw upon; and matched with an asado? Sounds like the perfect draw.

Switzerland: A very diplomatic match-up between this historic neutral and Qatar, a modern-day political mediator.

In that respect, you might want to keep things restrained and medium-bodied.

But this is the World Cup! So instead try the more gutsy Cayas Syrah du Valais Réserve from Domaine Jean-René Germanier.

It delivers rich red and dark berry fruit, framed with oak and shot through with a cool Alpine seam. A wine that will prove a fine partner to your favourite Middle Eastern dishes during the game.

Izzy: England & Turkey

England: England’s World Cup campaign is getting started in Texas on Wednesday, and what better way to kick off any summer fun than with bubbles?

Although there’s no guarantee of celebration in what will likely be a tough match for England against a strong Croatian side, if you’re looking for a wine that will be sure not to disappoint, Gusbourne’s Blanc de Blancs 2020 is a fabulous choice.

Layers of bright citrus, white fruits and brioche and buttery notes are beautifully focused – let’s just hope our boys can show equal precision on the pitch…

Turkey: It’s the first time Turkey has qualified for the World Cup since 2002, so the players will be looking to put in a strong first performance in their opening match against the Aussies on Sunday.

If you’re looking for an equally full-bodied but rather off-the-beaten-track alternative to a Barossa Shiraz, consider a wine made with Turkey’s native Boğazkere - especially an older vintage like this one, where the tannins have softened.

With black cherry and peppery aromas, like a mature Nebbiolo, this will stand up just as well as Shiraz to barbecued meats – why not pair with lamb koftas to kick off the fun?

Related articles

A visit to the Opus One website reveals the slogan: ‘Two families. One Vision’.

Which somewhat reminds one of the opening lyrics to Queen’s 1986 hit, It’s a kind of Magic:

‘One dream, one soul

‘One prize, one goal

‘One golden glance of what should be

‘It's a kind of magic’

Joking aside, Opus One was very much a pioneer in its fusion of classic Bordeaux and upstart Napa Valley winemaking heritage.

Born of a collaboration between Baron Philip de Rothschild of Château Mouton Rothschild and Robert Mondavi, it was meant to harness the potential of the ‘New World’ with the know-how of the ‘Old’.

Furthermore, it was based around not just the Bordeaux blend but also the idea of the Bordeaux estate, a winery surrounded by its own vines in a single appellation/American Viticultural Area (AVA).

This was unlike a common model used in Napa Valley, both then and now, of buying grapes from across multiple sites/AVAs.

The pair had begun discussing the project in the early 1970s after a meeting in Hawaii. The first wine, the 1979 vintage, was released in 1984 and a dedicated winery in Oakville was opened in 1991.

The wine was priced high right from the start, and quickly became a marker of the swelling tide of ‘icon’ and ‘cult’ wines beginning to emerge from various corners of North and South America in this period.

With its French connections, however, Opus One was one of the rare few to have widespread distribution beyond the US.

As such, it remains one of the Napa Valley labels most non-American fine wine enthusiasts will know best.

Secondary market overview

Looking back over the winery’s last 10 releases, it’s worth pointing out the glaring omission of the 2020 vintage.

This is not an error! After the devastating forest fires in the region in 2020, Opus One decided not to release any wines from that vintage due to smoke taint issues.

The winery’s output in terms of both scores and prices remain incredibly consistent. A case of 12 bottles costs just under £3,000 on average, with an average score from Decanter of 97-points.

This compares favourably with some of the leading Bordeaux estates that have been examined so far.

The average score is the same as Château Cheval Blanc and Château Haut-Brion, and it’s considerably cheaper on average than all of the First Growths and Cheval Blanc.

Fine wine marketplace Liv-ex includes Opus One in its ‘California 50’ index. Like so many other indices, it is far from the peak it attained in 2022.

However, among all the other wines in the index (Harlan, Screaming Eagle, Ridge Monte Bello and Dominus), it is the vintages of Opus One that have seen the most gains over the past year.

Opus One vintages

For any buyer looking to add Opus One to their collection, an obvious starting point would be the 2022 vintage.

A solid 97-points from two Decanter critics – Georgie Hindle and Jonathan Cristaldi – it is also the cheapest vintage currently available, with a Market Price of £2,590 (12x75) according to Liv-ex.

Two older vintages may also be of interest. The trio of 2018, 2019 and 2021 yielded three vintages Decanter rated 98-points across the board.

However, the 2018 is currently available at a discount of around £100 per dozen versus the other two, a neat little discount for a wine called ‘striking, elegant and precise’ by Hindle.

Curious buyers may want to not hang around. The wine recently gained 4.2% month-on-month according to Liv-ex. Maybe others have spotted the gap too?

It feels odd to say that there’s a 2013 vintage rated 100-points. But while that particular vintage was rather less than legendary in Bordeaux, it was one of the all-time greats in Napa.

Opus One’s 2013 is striking enough to have earned it a triple-digit score from Jane Anson.

At a tasting in 2019 when she described it thus: ‘Dark deep rosemary spice and black olive paste deepens the flavours through the mid-palate and you just have to hang on as this goes spiralling through, drawing the flavours out to a lengthy finish.’

And at £3,050 per dozen, it does not command a serious premium over other available vintages either.

The 2012 vintage was equally famous and, of the two, is currently the more expensive (though its Decanter score is only 97-points).

Like the 2018 though, the 2013 gained 4.2% MoM according to Liv-ex, meaning it may be a vintage drawing attention again.

And finally, it will be interesting to see the price of Opus One 2023 when it's released through La Place de Bordeaux this autumn.

Rated 98-points by Jonathan Cristaldi in his recent review of the vintage, a price equal to or even below that of the 2022 would surely make it an attractive proposition?

Opus One: Selected tasting notes

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Barolo’s best value in 2022 is found among its blends.

Whether a region-wide or a village blend (as opposed to the single-MGA and even single-vineyard bottlings), these so-called ‘classic’ Barolos represent a sweet spot for the vintage.

The majority of wines in 2022 are round in shape with harmonising acidity and well managed tannins, and less complexity than in the best years.

This more approachable style works to the advantage of those after well priced Barolo, with a number of well performing wines to highlight below.

Barolo 2022's top value picks

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A venerable St-Emilion property, Château Cheval Blanc has long been considered one of the leading estates in Bordeaux.

This was recognised as far back as 1955, when it and Château Ausone were the two estates recognised as Premier Grand Cru Classé ‘A’ in the inaugural St-Emilion classification.

However, in 2021 both Cheval Blanc and Ausone excused themselves from the 2022 classification citing issues with the judging criteria; which had been a major bone of contention in 2012.

Both relinquished the top classification they had held for 66 years but it’s doubtful it has harmed either property’s standing in the eyes of collectors. Both properties are now classified as ‘St-Emilion Grand Cru’.

In recent years Cheval Blanc has deftly navigated the turbulent waters of en primeur, emerging as one of the more consistent sellers in a dwindling market.

It has fully committed itself to ‘l’agroécologie’, implementing numerous environmentally-friendly practices at the estate, such as encouraging a polyculture, practicing agroforestry and ending ploughing to reduce soil compaction.

Secondary market overview

Over its last 10 vintages, Cheval Blanc has an average Liv-ex Market Price of £4,243 (per 12x75cl) and an average score from Decanter of 97-points.

In this regard its averages compare quite favourably with the first growths of the Left Bank – which we looked at last year.

It is a key component of the Right Bank 500 index compiled by fine wine marketplace Liv-ex and its component wines have largely seen positive performances since the start of the year.

However, the fine wine secondary market as a whole has been in a severe downturn in recent years and many prices have softened from the heights they achieved in the frenzy of the lockdown-driven bull run of 2020-2022.

The index as a whole has taken a step back since it hit its peak in January 2023, declining by 30.8% to September 2025. It has rallied a little since then but is still 29.4% below where it was at its highest point.

Recent analysis published in Decanter, suggests the possibility of a limited market recovery in 2026. There were signs of stability in the second half of 2025 and prices have stabilised in many areas.

However, the recent US-Israeli military action in the Gulf, may yet send another spasm of uncertainty through a bruised market.

Iran's threat to close the Strait of Hormuz will have severe repercussions in oil markets, and that volatility usually spreads to stock markets and therefore assets.

Both the UK and US stock markets were in flux this week as oil prices spiked – though the jump was not as severe as it was after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

A conflict with no foreseeable endpoint may put the brakes on even limited market recovery, but does potentially gift slow-to-act collectors an extended chance to keep scouring the secondary market for potential buying opportunities.

Cheval Blanc vintages

Looking at our chart above, we can see that there are two older vintages that weigh heavily on Cheval Blanc’s books: 2015 and 2016.

Both renowned vintages, they are priced well above the estate’s 10-year average: with a Liv-ex Market Price of £6,385 and £5,900 per case respectively.

However, although they are well reviewed wines, they are not the top-scorers according to Decanter.

Those honours go to the 2019 and 2023, which Bordeaux Editor, Georgie Hindle, both rated 99-points; the 2023 most recently at her in-bottle tasting of that vintage.

Both are currently available at considerable discounts to either the 2015 or 2016.

The 2019 was extremely well-priced on release and has gained 7.8% in value over the last five years according to Liv-ex. It currently has a Market Price of £4,850 according to Liv-ex, which is the third-highest, though still 20-30% less than the 2015 and 2016.

Therefore, the 2023 – at £3,779 per dozen – represents the best value by far, with a discount of 68% on the market price of the 2015 (97-points).

Another vintage of interest is the 2020. It has 98-points from Hindle – the same as the 2016 and 2022 vintages – but is currently available for £3,680 for a 12-bottle case, 60% less than the 2016.

According to Liv-ex, its price has also slipped -1.6% since the start of the year, which only helps to highlight the value it currently offers versus its peers.

Finally, for collectors perhaps merely seeking to get a foot in the door, the 2021 vintage presents a possible opportunity.

Rated 96-points – so just below the 10-year score average – its current case price of £2,835 is 50% below Cheval’s average price. The 2021 has also declined -5.5% in value year-to-date according to Liv-ex’s figures.

Château Cheval Blanc: Selected tasting notes

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Greater positivity pervaded the secondary market in late 2025, following a prolonged downturn.

Several variables have the potential to influence 2026 (see box, below), but stability was the watchword in January, rather than predictions of a fresh bullrun.

‘I don’t think prices will fall in the next year, but I struggle to see them going up meaningfully,’ said Geraint Carter, of international merchant Bordeaux Index and the LiveTrade online trading platform.

There may be exceptions, such as ‘pockets of demand’ pushing prices higher on wines with limited availability, he said. Pricing in some segments looked fragile, notably mid-tier Burgundy, he added.

Will Hargrove, head of fine wine at UK merchant Corney & Barrow, said: ‘I think it should be a year in which the market continues to improve. But I certainly don’t see it doing that in a dramatic or explosive sort of way.’

Liv-ex, a global marketplace for the trade, said that it expected the market to ‘bump along the bottom throughout 2026’.

It described this as an opportunity for new collectors to buy and drink fine wine, which would help with ‘building up sustainable long-term demand’.

Two questions

Carter highlighted Bordeaux wines from the 2009 vintage and before as one particular buying opportunity. ‘Prices look favourable [and] these wines are ready to drink, so they are supported by a consumption market.’

Sophia Gilmour, market analyst at Liv-ex, said: ‘As the possibility of broad market recovery becomes more of a reality, potential buyers should be asking themselves two questions – where have sellers been willing to capitulate, and which wines may provide the highest nominal gains?’

Gilmour added: ‘In terms of capitulation, 2021 Bordeaux [wines] have seen their prices slashed, generally below ex-chȃteau release prices.’

For buyers willing to incur higher risk, Gilmour said legendary producers such as Rayas (Rhône), Jacques Selosse or Salon (Champagne) and Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (Burgundy) will be of interest.

Prices for these fell sharply in the recent market downturn – after rising rapidly – and there could be more interesting offers, particularly if merchants need to raise capital.

The Bordeaux Index view

Fine wine & spirits specialist Bordeaux Index kindly sponsors this section of Decanter, and provides its view on the market here every issue. It can be found at bordeauxindex.com

The shape of 2026: The good, the bad and the uncertain

There are several reasons for cautious optimism in our corner of the wine market.

Some wines now look decisively oversold; Bordeaux 2021 is a case in point, as is Lafite, with price reductions re-engaging long-sidelined buyers.

Absolute value also seems to matter more. Super Seconds from solid vintages trading around £60-£70 will appeal to many, particularly when compared with village Burgundy from unproven producers at similar prices.

And categories such as pre-2009 claret, classic Rhône and Super Tuscans with a little age continue to enjoy consumption-driven support.

It’s also worth remembering that consumers typically moderate rather than disappear.

Asia has clearly been in a moderating phase, but there are signs of a gradual re-emergence of demand. But significant headwinds remain.

Investment overhang from the 2000-2020 bull market is still being worked through, with the most heavily speculated regions enduring the deepest corrections.

Finally, structural challenges loom large. An expanding universe of fine wines increases competition, benefiting drinkers but likely diluting returns.

Add climate change, declining consumption and more fragile luxury narratives, and it’s clear some headwinds will persist.

The year ahead feels finely poised. Opportunities will emerge, but a return to dramatic growth still feels some way off.

Latest Power 100 ranking released

St-Emilion powerhouse Château Cheval Blanc, cult Rhône producer Château Rayas and Super Tuscan standard-bearer Sassicaia have been highlighted in a new ranking of fine wine brands.

Cheval Blanc topped the latest Power 100 ranking by Liv-ex, a global marketplace for the trade, with Sassicaia producer Tenuta San Guido in second place.

Based on trading data in the year to 30 September 2025, the ranking offers extra insight into pockets of relative stability in a challenging market.

‘[Cheval Blanc] has not been immune to the downturn of the market,’ said Liv-ex, but a consistent approach to release pricing has helped to build its ‘strong reputation for quality and value’.

Spain’s Vega Sicilia came 16th, after heading the previous Power 100 ranking. While prices remained stable on average, it was particularly affected by US buyer caution in the face of import tariff uncertainty.

Vaunted Châteauneuf-du-Pape producer Rayas was fifth in the new Power 100 ranking, up 49 places on the 2024 edition. Prices rose 2.7% on average, ‘backed by substantial trade’.

The late Emmanuel Reynaud (pictured abvove), owner of Château Rayas in Chateauneuf-du-Pape Rayas wines have long been sought after by in-the-know collectors.

Geraint Carter, of merchant Bordeaux Index and online trading platform LiveTrade, said prices went ‘through the roof’ in the most recent market bull run before dropping sharply – by around 30% – and then rebounding in 2025 to some extent.

In November, inspirational Rayas owner and winemaker Emmanuel Reynaud passed away, prompting widespread tributes, including from Decanter’s Rhône correspondent Matt Walls.

Think of Bordeaux and an exclusive selection premium wines is likely to spring to mind – first growths, en primeur offerings and world-famous châteaux don’t tend to scream ‘value’.

Likewise in Burgundy, you’re unlikely to treat the grands crus of Romanée-Conti, Corton and Montrachet as casual purchases for mid-week quaffing.

But as with most wine regions, you can still find value-for-money bottles and enjoy something truly special without breaking the bank.

To back up this claim, we’ve pulled together a number of wines from across Burgundy and Bordeaux, all on the shelf at under £30 per bottle* – and some below £20.

There’s something for everyone here; sparkling, white, red and sweet, and several offerings from well-known areas including St-Julien, St-Estèphe, Beaujolais, Chablis and Sauternes.

Alongside individual producers, our selection also showcases some great-value supermarket own-brand labels.

*The Sauternes listed is available in half bottle format

Best value Burgundy and Bordeaux: 14 top picks

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Light up your dinner table with zingy fizzes and sophisticated Chardonnay and Pinot made closer to home. Here is a shopping list curated from our favourite English and Welsh wines tasted recently.

Our highlights

From a Panel Tasting on vintage sparkling wines, a regional profile of Hampshire and an East Anglia vineyard guide, to a discovery feature on Welsh wines – last year we have taken you on a journey around the United Kingdom to unearth the best bottles the nation has to offer. And here’s a listing of the top scorers:

Vintage English sparkling wine panel tasting

• Chapel Down, Kit’s Coty Coeur de Cuvée Extra Brut 2016 – 97pts
• Gusbourne Estate, 51 Degrees North Brut 2016 – 95pts
• Leonardslee Wine Estate, Reserve Brut 2021 – 95pts
• Wiston Estate, Blanc de Noirs Brut 2018 – 95pts
• Louis Pommery England, Blanc de Blancs Brut 2020 – 95pts
• Bee Tree by Sugrue, Pinot Meunier Rosé Brut 2019

Hampshire regional profile

• Hambledon Vineyard, Blanc de Blancs NV – 95pts
• Hattingley Valley, Kings Cuvée 2017 – 95pts

The surprise finds from Wales

• White Castle Vineyard, Sparkling White 2022 – 93pts
• Velfrey Vineyard, Vintage Sparkling Wine 2022 – 92pts
• Ancre Hill Estates, Chardonnay 2023 – 92pts

It’s also worth mentioning that wines from the UK had a fantastic yield at this year’s Decanter World Wine Awards. ‘The Trouble With Dreams’ 2009 from Sugrue South Downs was among the ‘Best in Shows’ – the top accolade of the world’s largest wine competition, followed by Platinum winners, Bluestone‘s Blanc De Noirs Brut 2019 and Digby Fine English‘s Rosé Brut 2018.

Below we’ve added more recommendations fresh from recent trade tastings. For reliable gifting options, opt for Nyetimber‘s top cuvée, the 1086, as well as Langham Wine Estate‘s Blanc de Noir 2019. But for a more affordable, crowd-pleasing fizz, Flint Vineyard‘s Charmat Rosé is an absolute delight.

The beautiful still wines from Crouch Valley of Essex are also worth a special mention. Try ‘The Cut’ 2023 from The Heretics for a sophisticated and elegant Chardonnay. The layered Pinot Noirs from Danbury Ridge and Missing Gate Vineyard won’t dissappoint either.

The rise of English still wines

In 2025, WineGB reported a 3% increase in the sale of wines from the UK compared to 2023, despite a challenging market ( WineGB 2025 industry report). Still wines achieved 10% growth in volume year-on-year, outpacing sparkling wines.

By 2024, Britain had 4,841 ha under vine, with 3,763 ha in active production, alongside a total of 1,100 registered vineyards and 238 wineries. The two leading wine-producing regions were Kent, with 1,239 ha, and West Sussex, with 671 ha.

A total of 10.7 million bottles of wine were produced in Great Britain in 2024 – around half of the record 21.6 million bottles produced in 2023 – due to challenging climatic conditions during the vintage. Still wines accounted for 31% of production, up from 21% in 2023.

Chardonnay (1,498 ha), Pinot Noir (1,370 ha) and Pinot Meunier (411 ha) remained the most widely planted grape varieties. Meanwhile, cool-climate grapes such as Bacchus (334 ha), Seyval Blanc (123 ha) and Solaris (117 ha) are increasingly valued for their ability to produce high-quality still wines.

Best English wines to try this spring

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Vintage English sparkling wine: Panel tasting results

Growth of English and Welsh still wine sales outpaces sparkling

Expert’s choice: Ageing English fizz

From a ‘pull-out-all-the-stops’ platter to leftover Cheddar melted into a comforting toastie, cheese is a festive mainstay that pairs beautifully with various wine categories.

When it comes to pairing sparkling wine and cheese – as with most food and wine matching – there are no hard and fast rules, with individual taste being the most important factor. But sparkling is one of the easiest – and most decadent – wine categories for cheese.

When considering any wine and food match, grape variety and style of course play a part, but the added bonus with sparkling wine is that the bubbles cut a cleanliness through the fat in cheese, creating a pleasing mouthfeel and texture.

And you really don’t have to spend a fortune on that perfect sparkler, as demonstrated by the great value to be found in our selection below.

Cheese and sparkling wine: Where to start

When it comes to pairing sparkling wine and cheese, there are various approaches you may want to take as a starting point.

A useful aspect to consider is balancing the respective weight and intensity of the cheese with the sparkling wine. A tangy mozzarella light in flavour would be a great pairing for a fresh and easy-drinking wine, so as not to overpower the delicate flavour of the cheese.

The same wine would be lost on an aged Comté, with a stronger, nutty taste, as the cheese calls out for a weightier companion, perhaps a Champagne or other traditional-method sparkler with extended lees ageing to give autolytic notes of brioche and toast.

Sweet and salty

Just as sweeter styles of still wine can work well with blue cheese, so too do off-dry or demi-sec sparklers. The ever-appealing mixture of sweetness and acidity from the wine is a great match for the tangy saltiness of the cheese.

To impress your guests with a point of difference, consider pairing a sparkling sake with blue cheese. Sake has lower acidity than wine, but an abundance of umami flavour which works to enhance the similar characteristics in blue cheese. A great example is Lachamte’s Sparkling Junmai Hideyoshi, which has a hint of sweetness underpinning its savoury depth and salty, earthy characteristics.

Taking a regional approach

The old adage ‘what grows together, goes together’ could offer some great inspiration in terms of pairing sparkling wine and cheese from the same regions.

A Chenin-dominant Crémant de Loire would make a lovely complement to a tangy local crottin – the acidity of the Chenin cutting through the cheese and creating a clean and smooth mouthfeel. Chassaux et Fils’ Specially Selected offering would be a solid place to start. You could take the flavour profile one step further and source a herb-crusted goat cheese to accompany Domaine des Grandes Espérance’s Barbule Extra Brut – a Crémant which ‘deserves food, ideally with the same subtle herbal nuances,’ according to Decanter contributor Anne Krebiehl MW.

Langres Fermier, a cow’s milk cheese with a distinctive orange rind and ‘fontaine’ dip in the centre, comes from Champagne-Ardenne. ‘Given the region it comes from, Champagne would be the perfect match, especially if you’ve splashed a little Champagne on the cheese,’ says Patricia Michelson, founder of London cheese store La Fromagerie.

Moving over to Italy, how about an Ubriaco al Prosecco, a cow’s milk cheese from Veneto which is soaked in Prosecco must for a number of months, hence the name ‘ubriaco’, meaning ‘drunk’. The prolonged contact with the grape must gives the cheese a fruity characteristic, making it a great pairing with the obvious partner, a chilled glass of Prosecco, such as Asda’s Exceptional expression.

Or you could stay closer to home with a creamy, salty mature Cheddar. Perfect with a glass or two of English sparkling, such as Morrisons The Best offering, aged for six years on the lees giving it savoury pastry notes.

A matter of character

You could even start with a specific sparkling wine and then choose your cheese accordingly.

I recently popped open a bottle of Sugrue South Downs’ Rosé Ex Machina – a delight as an aperitif but which really came into its own with a pop of saltiness and umami in the form of a mushroom and parmesan canapé.

Take inspiration from our wine recommendations below – including our tasters’ thoughts on specific sparkling wine and cheese pairings. However you decide to match, the most important thing is to enjoy the process of discovery.

Cheese and sparkling wine: 10 to try

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• Making a comeback: Great-value Chardonnay worth your attention this Christmas

The ABC movement – Anything But Chardonnay – is, thankfully, old news.

As consumers have recognised Chardonnay’s versatility and finesse, we’ve come full circle, and shunning it has become as unfashionable, predictable and eye-roll worthy as the wine was previously esteemed.

From crisp and refreshing to buttery and rounded (yes, that’s completely fine too), we’ve picked out a selection of Chardonnays available in the UK, priced at £25 and under per bottle (with one exception).

Our choices span Old World classics in the form of Chablis and other Burgundy, New World offerings from South Africa, Australia and New Zealand and even an exciting discovery from Poland.

With an array of styles, you could even use our list of great-value Chardonnay as inspiration for your festive celebrations.

Leckford Estate’s Blanc de Blancs – our outlier in the £25-and-under price cap, although still great value at £35 a bottle – would make an ideal party aperitif to serve with canapés. Another crowd-pleasing sparkling option comes in the form of Aldi’s Specially Selected Crémant du Jura – a steal at just £10.99.

Those in the market for a refreshing bottle to pair with a seafood starter are well catered for here, with great Chablis options including Chassaux et Fils’ Specially Selected 1er Cru 2023, or Laurent Delaunay’s Les Grappillages 2023.

Looking for something with a bit more punch? How about Domaine Masse’s Pierre Ponnelle Montagny 1er Cru 2023 to go with turkey, or Asda’s Exceptional White Burgundy 2023 with roast pork.

And for something opulent and full-bodied, opt for Pegasus Bay’s Waipara Valley 2020 offering.

If you’re after something new to impress, try Kamil Barczentewicz’s Chardonnay Béton 2023 – a lovely rounded style from South East Poland which would also make a great gift for that wine lover friend who’s tried it all.

Great-value Chardonnay for Christmas: 15 bottles to try

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National Chianti Day was originally conceived by importer, Santa Margherita USA – which represents Chianti Classico estates Santa Margherita and Lamole di Lamole – and aims to highlight the qualities of the famed area in Tuscany.

It’s an area of rolling hills, cypress, chestnut and oak trees, olive groves, villas, stone castles and – of course – wineries aplenty.

Below, we have highlighted some delicious Chianti recommendations, and not a fiasco (the traditional round bottle in a straw basket) in sight! You’ll find some picks from the established names of Frescobaldi and Barone Ricasoli as well as some UK supermarket recommendations.

Chianti & Chianti Classico: What’s the difference?

It’s easy to look past the differences between Chianti and Chianti Classico, but these Sangiovese-based wines actually belong to two distinct DOCGs (similar to the AOC system in France).

While Chianti DOCG constitutes a vast 15,500 hectares of vines, Chianti Classico DOCG is concentrated on the original, hilly zone situated halfway between Florence and Siena and totals 6,800ha of vineyard.

Chianti Classico was a subzone of Chianti from its inception in 1967 until 1996, when it was granted its own separate DOCG. The vineyards here are typically at higher altitudes than those of Chianti DOCG.

Chianti: What’s in the blend?

Chianti DOCG wines must be a minimum of 70% Sangiovese, but Chianti Classico DOCG wines demand a minimum of 80%. Both DOCGs permit the use of local and international varieties: Canaiolo Nero, Ciliegiolo, Colorino, Foglia Tonda, Malvasia Nera, Mammolo, Pugnitello, and also major international varieties, such as Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah.

Chianti DOCG permits a maximum of 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and/or Cabernet Franc, and a maximum of 10% of white varieties Malvasia and Trebbiano. Chianti Classico DOCG is no longer permitted to include white varieties in the blend.

Ageing requirements

Chianti DOCG wines can be sold from 1 March in the year after vintage, often suitable for drinking young.

Chianti Classico DOCG wines increase minimum ageing to around 12 months, being sold from 1 October in the year after vintage. This can give the wines greater complexity and cohesion, and helps to round off the raw edges of youth.

Classification hierarchy

Chianti DOCG has three classifications: Chianti, Chianti Superiore and Chianti Riserva. It also has seven sub-zones (such as Rùfina and Colli Fiorentini) which each have their own, stricter requirements including lower yields, longer ageing and higher alcohol.

Chianti Classico DOCG also has three classifications: Chianti Classico (known as ‘annata’), Chianti Classico Riserva and Chianti Classico Gran Selezione.

Changes were recently made to the Gran Selezione regulations including increasing the minimum required Sangiovese content from 80% to 90%, and introducing 11 sub-zones.

Decanter’s picks for National Chianti Day:

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Although rosé can of course be sipped at any time of year, the shelves are currently groaning under pink bottles of varying styles.

There’s a time and a place for both the pale salmon and the deep fuschia, and everything in between.

Scroll down for 20 great rosé wines under £25

The wines below are all priced under £25, but if you have a bit more to spend, I was impressed by this Sancerre rosé from Domaine Claude Riffault and this Corsican rosé from Clos Canarelli.

If you’re looking for rosé to really impress, both are real showstoppers and nudge just over £30.

All the wines below are available from a range of independent merchants, as well as supermarkets such as M&S, Waitrose, Sainsbury’s and Tesco.

Le Grappin’s rosé ‘bagnum’ (magnum in a bag) is hard to beat for quality, price and quantity. Easy to transport, great value, easy to chill and just delicious, this is quite literally the perfect product for a camping trip, a seaside jaunt, a picnic, a dinner with friends or a night in.

How is rosé wine made?

There are three main methods of making rosé wine: direct press, short maceration (including saignée), and blending.

With direct press, red grapes are picked, put into a press and crushed gently. The grape skins remain in contact with the juice until the desired level of pink is achieved.

Sometimes a small proportion of white grapes can be co-pressed and co-fermented with the red grapes, which can increase acidity and freshness. This is allowed in appellations such as Côtes de Provence.

Alternatively, red grape skins can be macerated in their juice for a short period before pressing and fermentation – the longer the maceration period, the darker the colour of the rosé.

The saignée method typically involves bleeding a proportion of pink-tinged juice out of a tank destined to make red wine. The juice has been in contact with the grape skins for a short amount of time, and is therefore pale pink in colour.

Often the remaining wine in the tank will go on to be made into red wine, but on other occasions the saignée method is used with the express intention of making rosé.

Decanter‘s rosé expert Elizabeth Gabay MW says: ‘Producers are now choosing to make these wines separately from the red wines, harvesting earlier to maintain freshness.’ As a result, these wines ‘have both full-bodied freshness and darker colour’.

Some basic rosés use a small amount of red wine blended into a white wine. Most EU appellations do not permit this method, with rosé Champagne being the notable exception.

Best rosé wines with food: Pairing suggestions

20 of the best rosé wines under £25

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While wine has been made in Mexico since 1597, the 21st-century rise in homegrown labels cultivated in diverse terroir – from Baja California to Querétaro – has piqued Mexicans’ palates. Producers with the freedom to play around with varieties and styles have helped increase national consumption fivefold in the past 20 years, according to the Consejo Mexicano Vitivinícola (Mexican Viticultural Board). Today, four in every 10 bottles opened in Mexico are vino mexicano.

Chilangos (Mexico City’s residents) take eating and drinking seriously, and are equally enticed by suadero beef brisket tacos as by Michelin-recommended establishments following the guide’s 2024 launch. Boxed fruit juices or grape-flavour fizzy drinks usually accompany antojitos (street food snacks) such as tortas (pork, beef or chicken sandwiches) and tacos al pastor, but acclaimed wine lists drawing from world-class vintages and simultaneously spotlighting Mexican labels are found at both upscale and midscale restaurants in CDMX (as Mexico City is usually referred to).

While licorerías (off-licences) are the usual outposts for purchasing wine and spirits, the interest in wine has led to a flurry of dedicated wine stores (vinotecas) and bars opening. CDMX’s hippest neighbourhoods, Roma and Condesa, populated over the past three years by digital nomads happy to spend dollar salaries in Mexico, are where the wine scene is to be found. Low-intervention labels lead the charge, plus there’s buoyant interest in Mexican wines that are often better value than their neighbouring Californian counterparts. Throw into the mix the capital’s year-round temperate climate and it’s always a good time to crack open a bottle al fresco in CDMX – especially every 7 October when Mexican Wine Day is celebrated.

Mexico City wine shops: 10 of the best

Tierras de Uva

Fernando Lorente opened a wine store in Roma Norte three years ago – after 22 years in the import business – with the aim of offering a public face to his hospitality clients. Second-generation José shares his father’s passion for wine, bringing small, terroir-driven, mostly Spanish (but dabbling in French and Portuguese) organic and biodynamic producers to Mexico City’s wine lovers. Stand-outs gems include Conca del Riu Anoia sparkling wine aged for more than 100 months on the lees. At his cool-looking venue – that cellars about 500 labels and doubles up as a bar – José is often found cracking open bottles to serve by the glass at the small counter, creating a jovial ambience also fuelled by delectable Spanish charcuterie.

Sinaloa 74, Roma Norte

Loro Loco

This newcomer to CDMX’s scene opened in January 2025 and comes with a solid spirits pedigree: co-founder Ali Kurshat Altinsoy used to be global brand director for the unconventional Danish Empirical Spirits distillery. Loro Loco (crazy parrot) is a Mexican-focused off-licence packed with gems such as agave spirits, labels from Baja California wineries, sotol (a distillate made from the desert spoon shrub) and vermouth. The sleek décor invites sophisticated drinkers looking to sample carefully crafted produce from food and drink artisans, such as Cinco Sentidos mezcaleros, and hang out in style.

65 Mérida, Roma Norte | @lorolocomx

Charco at Comedor de los Milagros

A colourful storefront tucked inside Comedor de los Milagros, a buzzy Latin American food hall, Charco keeps its focus clear: only Latin American pours on offer. The venue is the brainchild of owner and vermouth producer Marcos Di Battista, who also co-runs Handshake Speakeasy, named world’s best bar by 50 Best in 2024. Charco not only stocks Charco’s own-name Blanc de Noir, made with Malbec cultivated in Hidalgo state, but also other small local producers such as the female-led Pouya winery based out of Guadalupe Valley, Baja California. Whether you perch yourself at the counter for a glass or buy a bottle to take away, be ready to drink Latin American.

Calle Medellín 22, Colonia Roma

Si Mon

With a focus on all-things Mexican – wine, tequila, mezcal and beer – and a cosy décor, Si Mon is both warm and welcoming. Friendly staff are happy to help with recommendations and open different by-the-glass options each day. With close to 200 labels – including an extensive natural wine section and a unicorn melipona (a stingless bee) sparkling wine, Si Mon showcases Mexico’s regional and stylistic diversity, from Valle de Guadalupe’s Sauvignon Blancs and Nebbiolos to buoyant Cabernets from Guanajuato. Find yourself a stool at the counter or window, or grab a table for a more private group gathering.

Zacatecas 126, Roma Norte | @vinos_simon

Plonk

One of Mexico City’s hippest wine bars, Plonk has picked up a slew of awards since opening in 2023. A female-led establishment, star sommelier Romina Argüelles is in charge of the wine selection while chef Flor Camorlinga oversees the menu. Camorlinga applies her Asian culinary techniques to Mexican ingredients to create small plates for sharing. Plonk attracts an international crowd after world wines made by small producers – think René Bouvier’s red Burgundy or skin contact Mtsvane Pheasant Tears from Kakheti (Georgia) – that flocks to the coveted counter seats. But there’s also great buzz at outside tables. Bottles are available either to drink in or take home.

Iztaccihuatl 52, Condesa | @plonk.mx

La Naval

One of CDMX’s longest established drinks retailer, La Naval has been selling world wines to a thirsty public since 1932. With almost 600 reds and 200 whites in its portfolio, you can pick up both Old and New World gems from one of the eight locations around the capital city. La Naval also supports Mexican labels, with 175 in the portfolio that illuminates Baja California and also showcases varieties from other regions such as Syrah from Coahuila and red blends from the Encinillas Valley in the state of Chihuahua.

Insurgentes Sur 373, Hipódromo

Rimessa

This cosy yet well-stocked vinoteca in the Hipódromo neighbourhood, follows the natural wine trend and stocks labels from around the world. Pass through the royal blue and shocking pink façade and ask the knowledgeable staff to guide you through the vintages. They are especially happy to talk up Mexican natural wine movement’s leaders, such as Valle de Guadalupe’s Radicante, Viñas del Tigre and Vinos Pijoan. Look out for regular tastings featuring Mexican vínicolas as well as Old World producers. Plonk’s Romina Argüelles is a friend of the house and sometimes lends her expertise to host a tasting.

Amsterdam 26, Hipódromo | @rimessavinos

Hugo

A stylish wine bar, Hugo holds strong hands in curvaceous design and natural hues, as well as Mexican and European low-intervention wines. Pull up a stool at the green bar and watch as flocks of the 140 labels, in particular skin contact wines, fly out to a die-hard natural wine-loving international clientele. As well as creating a decent by-the-glass and magnum selection, co-owners Isabel Castillo and Thierry Chouquet show equal love for the food menu. Order small plates for sharing: stand-out light bites are Cerignola olives or Sol Azul oysters, while tasty pork schnitzel and beef tongue make for heartier options.

Veracruz 38, Roma Norte

Masala y Maíz

Named for the spice mix and corn, Norma Listman and Saqib Keval bridge their respective Mexican and Indian heritages to give cultural significance to their venue. Their cuisine sets the pace in terms of design and esthetics – backed by an electrifying soundtrack – at their trendy Centro restaurant. Their sustainable approach applies to a wine list dedicated to global low-intervention labels – tantalisingly categorised as Naughty Bubbles, or Weird, Tasty and Sexy, and spanning hip regions such as Sicily and Jura – paired with hip creations such as goldenberry ceviche and Kuku poussin. Order Radical, the house wine, a Grenache and Chenin Blanc blend made in collaboration with Guadalupe Valley winemaker Silvana Pijoan. Bottles to take out are sold at discounted prices.

Calle Artículo 123 #116 local 2, Colonia Centro

NIV

Since opening in 2023, NIV has caused rather a sensation for inspiring wine lovers to imbibe in an analogue-forward ambience. Vinyls set the musical pace while flickering candles wedged into wax-laden green bottles illuminate this Condesa wine bar; bronze ice buckets are another alluring part of the decor. The focus is on small European producers but also nods to Mexican labels. The low-intervention philosophy means you should expect plenty of skin contact wines to be enjoyed with steak frites and beef carpaccio. NIV often doubles up as a contemporary art gallery, hosting exhibitions supporting local artists.

Atlixco 132, Condesa | @nivbar.mx

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Winners of the 50 coveted Best in Show medals at Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) 2025 have been revealed, following yesterday’s publication of the full results of this year’s competition.

From vine to bottle and then to a London warehouse, waiting to be one of the many bottles tasted by 248 top wine experts from across the globe, assessing wines from 57 countries – DWWA judging process reaches its pinnacle of scrutiny at the Best in Show evaluations.

‘By the time a wine is selected as Gold, it’s been tasted by several wine professionals and debated several times. To have that kind of Gold or Silver stamp, especially a Platinum or a Best in Show means that it really is a superlative excellent outstanding quality wine.’ said DWWA Regional Chair for Chile, Amanda Barnes MW.

Indeed, reaching this stage in the judging process is an incredible achievement for any wine. This rigorous process underlines that a wine’s elevation to Best in Show recognises extraordinary quality, exceptional flavour profiles and the ability to stand out amidst a competitive, world-class field.

Scroll down to see the Top 50 Best in Show wines at DWWA 2025

Neither judges nor producers know which wines have made it into the competition’s Top 50 until the full DWWA results are announced, making the reveal of Best in Show an exhilarating moment for everyone involved.

The Best in Show selection this year showcases global excellence from 14 countries: Argentina, Australia, Chile, China, France, Greece, Italy, New Zealand, Portugal, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, the UK and the US. Styles span sparkling (Champagne, traditional method), classics (Beaujolais, Bordeaux, Burgundy), captivating sweet wines and of course the unmissable fortifieds, Sherry and Port.

Amid this global richness, the 50 Best in Show medals – representing approximately 0.3% of all entries – are reserved for the very best. These wines have earned recognition through multiple rounds of blind tasting, including regional panels, Co‑Chairs, Platinum rounds and final consensus from the five-person Co‑Chair team.

We encourage you to seek out these outstanding wines, where available, and get to know the producers behind these award-winning bottles.

Click on the wines that interest you below to view the full review, complete with tasting notes and stockist information.

DWWA Best in Show: The Top 50 wines of 2025

Argentina

Bemberg Estate Wines, Pionero, Gualtallary, Tupungato, Mendoza 2022

Rutini, Single Vineyard Malbec, Gualtallary, Tupungato, Mendoza 2021

Australia

Wirra Wirra, The 12th Man Chardonnay, Adelaide Hills, South Australia 2024

Xanadu, Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River, Western Australia 2022

Barossa Old Vine Company, Shiraz, Barossa Valley, South Australia 2022

Trentham Estate, Reserve Shiraz, Heathcote, Victoria 2023

Chile

Antiyal, Viñedo Escorial Organic Carmenère, Maipó Valley 2020

La Causa Del Itata, La Causa Cinsault-País-Carignan, Secano Interior 2022

China

Changyu, Noble Dragon N188, Yantai, Shandong 2022

Dongfang Yuxing Winery, Geruihong Yeguangbei, Helan Mountain East, Ningxia 2022

France

Domaine Du Mont Verrier, Janin, Morgon, Beaujolais 2023

Jean-Marc Brocard, Bougros, Chablis Grand Cru, Burgundy 2023

Barons De Rothschild, Rare Collection Blanc De Blancs Extra Brut, Champagne 2014

Lanson, Noble Brut, Champagne 2008

Château Bastor-Lamontagne, Sauternes, Bordeaux 2022

Domaine Landrat-Guyollot Gemme Océane, Pouilly-Fumé, Loire, 2022

Château La Borie, Syrah, Côtes du Rhône Villages Suze-la-Rousse, Rhône 2023

Michel Tissot & Fils, Château-Chalon, Jura 2017

Château Cavalier, Cuvée Marafiance, Côtes de Provence, Provence 2024

Château Ollieux Romanis, Cuvée Prestige, Corbières-Boutenac, Languedoc-Roussillon 2022

Chateau La Croix Younan, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru, Bordeaux 2022

Albert Bichot, Hospices De Beaune Cuvée Cyrot Chaudron, Clos de la Roche Grand Cru, Burgundy 2023

Rare Champagne, Brut, Champagne 2012

André Lurton, Château de Rochemorin, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux 2022

Greece

Monemvasia Winery Tsimbidi, Monemvasia-Malvasia, Peloponnese 2012

Chatzivaritis Estate, Goumenissa, Macedonia, 2021

Ktima Gerovassiliou, Single Vineyard Malagousia, Epanomi, Macedonia 2024

Anhydrous, Santorini, Santorini, Aegean Islands 2019

Italy

Diego Morra, Del Comune Di Verduno, Barolo, Piedmont 2021

Donnafugata, Ben Ryé, Passito di Pantelleria, Sicily 2023

Donnachiara, Taurasi, Campania 2021

Cantina Terlano, Lunare Gewürztraminer, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol 2023

Fratelli Serio & Battista Borgogno, Cannubi, Barolo Riserva, Piedmont 2019

Tenuta Meraviglia, Maestro Di Cava, Bolgheri Superiore, Tuscany 2020

New Zealand

Craggy Range, Pinot Noir, Martinborough, Wairarapa 2024

Portugal

Quinta Do Reguengo, Cortes, Douro, 2020

Santos & Seixo Wines, Da Casa Grande Reserva, Douro 2020

Soalheiro, Alvarinho, Monção e Melgaço, Vinho Verde 2024

Graham’s, Quinta Dos Malvedos, Single Quinta Vintage Port 2018

Menin Douro Estates, 50 Year Old Tawny Port NV

Slovenia

Vinakoper, Capris Orange Rumeni Muškat, Slovenska Istra, Primorska 2015

South Africa

Knorhoek, Cabernet Sauvignon, Simonsberg-Stellenbosch 2021

Spain

Vall Llach, Mas de la Rosa Gran Vinya Classificada, Priorat 2023

Pago De Los Capellanes, Doroteo, Ribera del Duero 2020

González Byass, Del Duque V.O.R.S, Amontillado, Sherry NV

Don Bernardino, La Capona Amandi, Ribeira Sacra 2019

González Byass, Tío Pepe Cuatro Palmas, Amontillado, Sherry

United Kingdom

Sugrue South Downs, The Trouble With Dreams, Sussex, England 2009

United States

Clos du Val, Cabernet Franc, Stags Leap District, California 2022

Kenwood Vineyards, Six Ridges Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, California 2021

Search all DWWA 2025 results

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Mother’s Day falls on Sunday 30 March in the UK this year, when the trees are beginning to blossom, buds are breaking and there are signs of new life.

Flowers, plants and bulbs make for wonderful presents on Mothering Sunday, but your gifting skills can be elevated by a bottle or two of sparkling wine.

The list of recommendations below includes varying styles of sparkling wine from classic Champagne and Crémant to English sparkling and Prosecco. Prices range from under £20 to over £100.

Scroll down to see our selection of sparkling wines for Mother’s Day

Quick guide to sparkling wine styles:

• Champagne – Mostly made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, this must come from the French region of Champagne. It’s produced using the traditional method, with secondary fermentation taking place in the bottle.
• Traditional method – This refers to wines made using the same method as Champagne, where a second fermentation takes place in the bottle. The key examples are:
• Cava – Sparkling wine from Spain using both native grapes, such as Xarel·lo and Parellada, as well as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Reserva and Gran Reserva Cavas undergo extended ageing in bottle, bringing additional complexity.
• English sparkling wine – The cool climate and limestone soils in southern England are similar to those in Champagne, producing many fantastic sparkling wines.
• Franciacorta – From the northern Italian region of Lombardy, this serious traditional method wine can be both fresh and complex.
• Crémant – There are eight appellations in France where Crémant sparkling wines can be produced, and local grape varieties tend to be used. Examples include Crémant de Bourgogne, Crémant de Limoux and Crémant de Loire.
• Other very good traditional method sparkling wines can be found in the USA, Australia, New Zealand and Brazil.
• Prosecco – Made in the Veneto region of northeast Italy from the Glera grape, using the tank – or charmat – method.
• Pétillant naturel – This is in fact the oldest method of making sparkling wine, also known as méthode ancestrale. Unlike Champagne, the wine is bottled before it finishes its first fermentation, so the bubbles develop in the bottle. They can be slightly cloudy due to sediment, fairly low in alcohol, with a gentle fizz and sometimes a touch of sweetness. For the more adventurous mothers out there, what’s not to like!

At a glance: top picks for Mother’s Day

Top Champagne pick under £50:

Ayala, Brut Nature, Champagne, France

Top supermarket Champagne pick:

Alexandre Bonnet, Waitrose Brut, Champagne, France NV – £24.99

Top splash-out Champagne pick:

Champagne Stroebel, Pour Toi! Brut Nature, Champagne, France – £119

Top traditional method pick:

Clotilde Davenne, Brut Extra, Crémant de Bourgogne, Burgundy, France – £20.95

Top Prosecco pick:

Bele Casel, Col Fondo Agricolo, Colli Trevigiani, Veneto, Italy 2021 – £22

Top off-the-beaten-track pick:

Domaine Giachino, Don Giachino, Vin Mousseux de France, Savoie 2019 – £36

Sparkling wines for Mother’s Day:

The wines below were tasted by Decanter’s editorial team and experts.

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Pinot Noir is an old variety. And while we don’t know when it first appeared, we do know it is the parent of other varieties such as Chardonnay and Gamay.

Unsurprisingly, its homeland is Burgundy, where it rose to fame in the Middle Ages – though known initially as ‘Plant Fin’, ‘Noirien’ or ‘Pinoz’.

Since then it has more than spread its wings, hanging its hat in both hemispheres, especially in cooler climates where it shines, delivering wines with a breezy, crunchy fruit character that take on ethereal, earthy qualities with age.

It cuts a fine partner with many dishes, from lighter meats such as chicken, through to rich beef and mushroom stews.

Below is a rundown of the regions you should be looking at if you’re a Pinot adherent, along with a selection of wines that have grasped the attention of Decanter’s experts over the last 12 months.

Scroll down to see notes and scores for 18 brilliant Pinot Noirs

Burgundy

The natural starting point for Pinot Noir, Burgundy has centuries of know-how under its belt, and unsurprisingly remains a source of wonderful iterations from village-level cuvées to the finest of grands crus.

However, production is limited and the fame and quality of the region’s wines have led to massively increased demand and, with it, soaring prices.

Rest of France

Though generally less-renowned than Burgundy, there are pockets of France where Pinot also thrives.

The other most-planted area is Champagne. Today it forms the backbone of many cuvées and is instrumental in rosé, but some producers are trying their hand at resurrecting the still Pinot Noirs (Coteaux Champenois) that used to be common before sparkling wines became the dominant style.

Sancerre is another area once renowned for its Pinot Noirs which are enjoying a small renaissance, and delight those in-the-know with their silky elegance.

And then there is Alsace, which is often forgotten as a producer of red wines but with a continental climate that allows Pinot to ripen nicely alongside its full-bodied whites.

Even southern France has some Pinot to be found, in the cooler, higher parts of western Languedoc-Roussillon, such as Limoux.

Germany

Under the moniker of Spätburgunder, Germany is a treasure trove of spectacular Pinot Noirs that rival many of those coming out of the barrels in Burgundy.

The grape is grown throughout the country, but the southern region of Baden and the more northerly Ahr Valley are often highlighted as being Germany’s key Spätburgunder regions.

That said, the grape is grown widely, including in the main regions of Rheingau, Rheinhessen and Nahe as well as Saale-Unstrut in the east.

California

The Golden State is blessed with abundant sunshine, which, on paper, doesn’t make it a natural bedfellow for Pinot, yet a combination of higher elevation vineyards and climatic events (such as the morning fogs in Sonoma County) dovetail to produce some of the New World’s finest Pinot Noirs.

Aside from the myriad AVAs within Sonoma that produce great Pinot Noir (such as Russian River Valley and Fort Ross-Seaview), other regions to look for in California include: Sta Rita Hills in Santa Barbara County, Mendocino, the Santa Cruz Mountains and Anderson Valley.

Oregon

Heading north from California, Oregon has forged a spectacular reputation for Burgundian varieties.

In the sub-region of Willamette Valley, a clutch of famous Burgundian producers (Drouhin-Laroze and de Villaine among them) have set up shop, producing wines that combine Burgundian elegance with a little North American suaveness.

Look out as well for the sub-AVA of Yamhill-Carlton, which is a particular enclave for fine Pinots in Oregon.

Decanter‘s North American editor, Clive Pursehouse, compiled a list of Oregon Pinot Noirs under $50 a bottle as part of his coverage of the 2022 vintage last year.

And he also picked an Oregon Pinot Noir as his US wine of the year in 2024 as well – Abbott Claim’s Due North Pinot Noir (see note below).

Australia

The best place to look for Australian Pinot is the cooler south, in Victoria and Tasmania.

The former’s wine regions of Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley and Gippsland have carved out excellent reputations for Pinot Noir. Meanwhile, Tasmania’s aptitude for Pinot is growing fast.

New Zealand

Pinot first went into the ground in New Zealand towards the tail-end of the 19th century, although it wasn’t until the 1970s that it achieved commercial lift-off.

The grape thrives right across the country from warmer Hawke’s Bay, to Marlborough, Nelson, North Canterbury and Central Otago.

New Zealand’s Pinot scene is now so well-developed that Decanter publishes a dedicated report about the wines.

Click here to find all notes and scores for Pinot Noir

South Africa

The Hemel-en-Aarde Valley in Walker Bay is possibly the go-to region for Pinot Noir in South Africa.

Blessed with a maritime climate due to its coastal location, the vines here also reap the benefits of cooling afternoon sea breezes that aid gentle, extended ripening.

Elgin and Stellenbosch are two more areas where Pinot Noir works well in the Cape.

Pinot Noir is also a parent grape (along with Cinsault) of the South African variety Pinotage.

Chile

Bio Bio, Casablanca and San Antonio are the most famed regions for Pinot in Chile, although fine examples can be found throughout the country, where cooler climates marry with Chile’s renowned sunshine hours to deliver optimal ripeness.

Contemporary winemaking trends have led to dialling into fruit purity and reining in oak influence.

Around the world

If you’re keeping an eye out for Pinot Noir in less obvious locations then here are a few suggestions. Canada produces some excellent Pinots around both the Great Lakes of Ontario and the Okanagan Valley in the west.

Romania has a long history of producing very good value Pinot Noir, as do parts of northern Italy. Even England is starting to make some still Pinot Noir – at times with surprisingly pleasing results.

Argentine Patagonia is a rapidly developing area and one where this delicate variety is staking out a firm claim to fame.

18 Pinot Noirs recommended by Decanter‘s experts

Wines are drawn from across those tasted by the Decanter team and contributors since January 2024 and are listed in score order.

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Fortified wines may be largely associated with Christmas in the UK, but with a myriad of styles, there’s no reason why this category can’t be enjoyed year round.

A chilled manzanilla on a balmy day, a contemplative oloroso and a good book, a tawny Port with a shard of dark chocolate by the fireside…

Scroll down to see notes and scores for 11 great-value fortified wines

Offering great versatility, fortified is also a category that lends itself well to cocktails. Anyone for a Bloody Sherry, whereby you replace the gin or vodka with fino? Or perhaps a refreshing white Port and tonic, garnished with a slice of orange.

We’ve picked out 11 great-value fortified wines all available in the UK and priced at £20 or less per 75cl.

Starting with Sherry, Marks & Spencer’s Extra Dry & Light Manzanilla offers up classic apple, blossom and yeast flavours and would make a great tapas all-rounder. Sánchez Romate’s Don José Oloroso is rich, powerful and nutty with a streak of salinity and a long finish. Or if you’re after something sweeter, Morrisons’ Pedro Ximenez is bursting with toffee, currants and spices.

Port lovers will also find plenty to celebrate here. Quinta do Vale Meão’s Reserve Port for The Wine Society’s Generation Series is balanced and elegant with great ageing potential. Co-op’s Irresistible 10 Year-Old Tawny Port oozes berries and black cherry while Graham’s Fine White Port is perfect for summer drinking.

Outside of these two classic regions, seek out Samos Vin Doux from UWC Samos – a fully sweet fortified Muscat with honeysuckle and fruit salad aromas. Martinez’s 5 Year Old Dolce Superiore Riserva Marsala offers a great alternative to cream Sherry, with its notes of nutty toffee, dried figs and vanilla oak spice.

Great-value fortified wine: 11 to try

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There’s nothing quite as celebratory as a bottle of sparkling wine. And nothing more evocative of a celebration of love than a bottle of sparkling rosé. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we guide you through a selection of pink bubbles that will make an elegant statement and also work as perfect gifts.

How is rosé sparkling wine made?

Sparkling rosé simply uses a rosé base wine, which then goes through one of the methods of sparkling winemaking. That could be ancestral, traditional, charmat or transfer method. The rosé base wine itself is produced through one of the usual rosé winemaking techniques (saignée or direct press), although some regions – such as Champagne – allow the addition of red wine to a white-dominated blend.

Looking beyond Champagne

Champagne might be the region that first springs to mind when thinking of a celebratory fizz. Indeed, some rosé Champagnes have become synonymous with romantic occasions: Billecart-Salmon and Laurent-Perrier rosés are just two of a number of cuvées that are ubiquitous in Valentine’s Day displays and have acquired iconic status among lovers of pink Champagne.

Scroll down for our selection of brilliant sparkling rosés

But it’s well worth looking beyond the French flagship region for sparkling wines, pink or not, that deliver a different character but the same quality. Other regions and appellations producing outstanding traditional method sparkling include:

Cava

A peculiar appellation in that it is scattered across multiple regions rather than corresponding to a delimited area. Most Cava is, however, produced in Catalunya, with Sant Sadurni d’Anoia as its historical and spiritual epicentre. Cava Rosado uses the red varieties Garnacha, Monastrell, Pinot Noir and/or Trepat for colour, in addition to the other permitted white varieties. When looking for high-quality Spanish fizz you will also need to explore the wines from producers that have actually decided to leave the Cava DO. Amidst disagreements about viticulture and winemaking standards, leading names such as Raventós i Blanc, Recaredo and Gramona (the latter two being founding members of the Corpinnat group), have left the denomination and produce some of Spain’s finest bubbles under specific regional labels.

Crémant

A term referring to French traditional method sparkling wines produced outside of Champagne. The regions producing Crémants are Alsace, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Die (in the Rhône), Jura, Loire, Limoux and Savoie.

Franciacorta

This northern Italian region, in the hills east of Brescia, has a somewhat short but impressive history producing traditional method sparkling, mostly from Champagne varieties. Its reputation has grown quickly, firmly establishing it as a leading sparkling wine region in Europe and the world, with some of the most renowned producers making highly sought after wines, not least outstanding rosés.

Tasmania

The southern Australia island state produces some of the country’s best sparkling wines, with its cool climate yielding fruit of incredible finesse and balance, particularly suited for elegant, precise, ageworthy fizz.

United Kingdom

If you are looking for a proper bottle of pink fizz you don’t need to look further than the British Isles, where sparkling is winning awards the world over with expressive wines marked by a very characteristic freshness. The rosés in particular show beautiful wild berry flavours brought to life by vibrant acidity.

Prosecco

Prosecco only made a move into pink territory relatively recently. In May 2020 the Italian government approved the production of Prosecco DOC Rosé, a move ratified by the EU in November the same year. The crossing of two highly popular categories, Prosecco rosé uses Pinot Noir for colour in addition to Prosecco’s own variety, Glera. Unlike the other regions listed above, Prosecco can be made using either the traditional or Charmat Method.

Sparkling rosé: Taste and food pairing

So does rosé sparkling taste different from white sparkling, or is it just a matter of colour?

Grape varieties, blend and winemaking process all play a role in the eventual flavour of the wine, making it difficult to generalise how a sparkling rosé tastes and how it is different from its white counterpart.

Having said that, there are some general characteristics you might expect from a pink fizz:

• Subtle red berry flavours, sometimes with a hint of red citrus (think pink grapefruit or blood orange) and red orchard fruit.
• A hint of tannin, imparted by mild contact with skins during the production of the base wine, which might give it a pleasant grip and texture.
• The higher degree of phenolic compounds can give it a richer body, especially if the wine has spent more time ageing on its lees prior to disgorgement.

Sparkling rosé for Valentine’s Day

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Pink wine and sunshine? Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. But there are still plenty of reasons to enjoy a glass of great-value rosé this time of year. Whether you’re looking for a bottle for Valentine’s Day, something to pair with a particular dish or simply something to put you in mind of warmer climes, the selection below offers plenty of inspiration.

Scroll down to see notes and scores for 14 great-value rosé wines

The choices are based on value and quality and while we couldn’t run this piece without the south of France playing a large role, we’ve cherry picked some delicious wines from further afield, and in a variety of styles.

Our selection of great-value rosé showcases 14 pours priced at £20 and under, all tasted and rated by the Decanter team.

Fans of Provence rosé are – predictably – well catered for here. The depth and concentration of Château des Sarrins’ Grand Cuvée 2023 makes it a great example of a more ‘serious rosé’. Mirabeau’s Haute Couture Rosé 2023 with its red berry, citrus and white flower profile would make a great pairing for richer fish dishes, while Marks & Spencer’s Collection Rosé 2023 offers up an abundance of peaches and cream.

Or how about something from Corsica? We’ve included two picks from l’île de beauté, including Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference 2023, pale in colour but with a great texture having spent up to six months on the lees.

Austria provides a treat in the form of Judith Beck’s Beck Pink 2023 – a biodynamic blend of Zweigelt and Blaufränkisch boasting wild strawberry and zesty orange rind.

Italy’s Antinori may be better known for its celebrated reds, but its Scalabrone Rosato 2023 is well-worth seeking out, with its bouquet of cherries, wild berries and a hint of rose petal.

Marks & Spencer presents a home-grown pick with its Bramble Hill 2023, made by Surrey producer Denbies from dry-farmed old vines. A beautiful balance of acidity, fruit and candied lemon.

Great-value rosé wine: 14 to try

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With so many bottles lining the shelves it can be hard to know where to begin in seeking out great-value red wine.

Scroll down to see notes and scores for 20 great-value red wines

Our selection comprises celebrated names, powerhouse regions and notable grape varieties as well as a few off-the-beaten-path picks, all offering a fantastic price-quality ratio.

The 20 wines below have been reviewed and rated by the Decanter team and are priced at £20 or less.

Mendoza Malbec fans are in for a treat here with Doña Paula’s elegant high-altitude 2022 from Luján de Cuyo and Marks & Spencer’s food-friendly 2023 Uco Valley offering made by Decanter’s Hall of Fame 2024 winner, Susana Balbo.

Or how about Wirra Wira’s Church Block 2021 from Australia’s McLaren Vale: a Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot blend oozing with black fruit and chocolate.

Highlights from France include both Northern and Southern Rhône offerings, in the respective forms of M Chapoutier’s silky smooth Crozes-Hermitage 2022 and Boutinot’s Soleil Pierres Cairanne of the same vintage, showing beautiful typicity of style. You could also opt for a refreshing and zesty Beaujolais 2023 from Louis Jadot.

A great choice from Spain comes in the form of a new-wave Rioja – Marks & Spencer’s Viñedos en Laguardia 2023 – boasting perfumed cherry spice.

Italian favourites have also made the list. Morrisons caters for Amarone enthusiasts with its velvety The Best 2020 and Castellore’s Specially Selected Chianti Riserva 2021 impresses with its elegant fruit and smoky spice notes.

Waitrose’s Loved & Found range strikes again for those wanting to try something less mainstream – its Campania Piedirosso 2023 from Orion Wines shows an expressive red fruit and herb character alongside a hint of white pepper and vanilla.

Great-value red wine: 20 to try

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We’ve chosen the wines below based on value and quality and while many may be familiar names, we’ve also thrown in a few more unusual options to explore, all tasted and rated by the Decanter team. Our selection of great-value white wine showcases 20 refreshing pours all priced at under £20.

Scroll down to see notes and scores for 20 great-value white wines

Burgundy may not be a region you’d necessarily associate with value, but Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Vielles Vignes 2022 and Cave de Lugny Les Charmes 2023 are both welcome exceptions. Another Chardonnay – this time from Kent producer Balfour – also made the cut. It’s unoaked and a great option if you’re looking for something bursting with crisp acidity.

Sauvignon Blanc fans would do well with The Horologist 2023 – a classic Marlborough choice offering gooseberry and green citrus notes. The variety also shows well in Domaine Roblin’s Sancerre Les Côtes 2023.

Those in search of classic Italian options are also well-catered for with Pieropan The Society’s Exhibition Soave 2023 and Castellore Specially Selected Gavi 2023. For something a little different, the Don Vincenzo Eghemon Passimiento 2023 is bursting with ripe peach, melon and mango teamed with a fresh dose of acidity.

We’ve also listed a couple of Albariños ideal for quaffing – the Morrisons 2023 vintage from Spain’s Rías Baixas balances salinity with peachy weight while Left Field’s 2023 offering from New Zealand is bold with a buttery character.

If you’re looking to impress without spending a small fortune, try the La Baume Blanc 2022 – an elegant Grenache Blanc-based blend which comes in an eye-catching bottle you won’t want to hide away.

It may still be traditional ‘red wine season’ in the UK – let’s face it, the weather has had many of us tempted by a comforting glass of Malbec by the fireside – but let’s encourage an early spring with some invigorating white wines.

Great-value white wine: 20 to try

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Decanter brings you the first in a new series of articles celebrating great buys by wine category from UK supermarkets and wine merchants. We’re focusing on bottles chosen for their great value and taste whilst also highlighting a few curveballs with points of difference to discover. The collection kicks off with a look at great-value sparkling wine, with a price cap of £25.

Scroll down to see notes and scores for 18 great-value sparkling wines

We’ve chosen a selection of 18 wallet-friendly bottles of bubbly to try from regions around the world and in a variety of styles – all reviewed and rated by our Decanter tasting team. From Champagne to South Africa, Prosecco to pét-nat, there are plenty of options perfect for glass-raising.

Starting on home ground, check out The Best English Sparkling Grand Reserve NV by Morrisons. The latest release is made by Rolling Green Hills and would make a refreshing apéritif.

Heading to Spain, Chosen by Majestic Viña Majestica Cava NV is aged on the lees for 15 months and has notes of green apple and lemon pith. Sainsbury’s offers a fresh and vibrant vintage option, Taste the Difference Cava 2020, at a bargain price.

For those in the market for Champagne, why not try the Pinot-dominant Veuve Monsigny Premier Cru NV or Alexandre Bonnet’s non-vintage concoction for Waitrose, made with up to 40% reserve wine.

Other traditional method offerings from France worth seeking out include Marks & Spencer’s Classics no12 Crémant de Bourgogne NV and Prince Alexandre Crémant de Loire NV, a Chenin-based sparkler with intense acidity.

Over in Italy, you could opt for Co-op’s Irresistible Prosecco NV or for those seeking something a little different, try Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference Pignoletto NV, made from 100% Grechetto.

Graham Beck’s Blanc de Blanc 2019 with notes of creamy brioche is drinking very nicely now – and will continue to develop for the next 10 years. Another South African option to seek out is New Theory’s Pot Luck Pét Nat 2023 – a playful wine delivering a salty sherbet tingle and savoury creaminess.

Festivities may be well and truly over for the season but that doesn’t mean we can’t still unwind with a glass or two of bubbles. And with the pinch of January upon us, let’s embrace the fact that good sparkling wine doesn’t need to break the bank.

Great-value sparkling wine: 18 to try

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You’re nearly there! Christmas is done and dusted and there’s just one more party left before the new year begins in earnest.

New Year’s Eve is a time when friends and family get together to see in the next 12 months (and if it’s anything like the previous 12 months it will be filled with tax rises, political dogfighting and French protests).

But it can be a juggling act trying to appeal to everyone, especially when there’s a wide spread of tastes even among like-minded friends. Below, we identify some of the key drinking types and suggest how to make them feel at home at your New Year’s Eve party.

The Traditionalist

The Traditionalist wine drinker excels at purporting the virtues of claret, Burgundy, Rioja, Sancerre and Chablis. It’s a tough crowd as they know exactly what they like – but it may not fit your New Year’s Eve party budget.

Try visiting a trusted wine merchant and ask them what their bestselling Bordeaux is. Chances are it will be affordable and delicious. There are also some good picks available in the supermarkets, although you’ll need to rely on our reviews rather than a memeber of staff to guide you.

Rioja is a great option, as even the very affordable options can be absolutely delicious – as long as they’re not drowned in oak – while younger, cheaper Bordeaux can be a bit more fickle. Look for Rioja Crianza for a vibrant, bright style, or a Reserva for a great balance of quality and complexity (but typically at a higher price point).

If it’s a more intimate dinner occassion, you could consider upping the budget to a cru classé (classed growth) Bordeaux or premier cru Burgundy (red or white) for more wow factor, as well as good compatability with your guests’ palates and the food you are serving.

The Occasional Drinker

There are many possible reasons why some of your guests may not be consuming alcohol at your New Year’s Eve party; designated driver springs to mind. But it’s also becoming an increasingly popular lifestyle choice – and as the host it’s important to respect your guests’ choices.

Serving no/low alcohol beverages can be a great way to provide some mindful alternatives to wine, and has the added bonus of making you appear to be on the cutting edge of drinks trends.

The Pinot Grigio Lover

A bit like the Traditionalist, the Pinot Grigio Lover has a firm vision of what they like, and what they don’t – but in this case it revolves around one thing; Pinot Grigio.

They’ll go out for lunch and order a Pinot Grigio. Take them to dinner and they’ll order a bottle without even asking to peruse the wine list. They’ll probably turn up to your party with a couple of bottles tucked under their arm too, but just in case they don’t, it’s best to stock up on a few bottles.

You’ll have to have very poor observational skills to not find one in your local wine merchant or supermarket, and for our money, the most delicious examples come from north Italy, in Trentino. Luckily, options are abundant and bottles are very affordable.

The Rosé Lover

Nothing says ‘winter drinking’ like a rosé from the French Riviera, but no doubt it will be the preferred drink for some of your guests. Given the popularity of Provence pinks, you’d be forgiven for going down that route – and you’ll be spoilt for choice.

But there are alternative rosé styles to consider, especially if you’re hosting a dinner party – in this case, you might want something a little bit more structured to stand up to a particular course you are serving.

The Spirits Fiend

The Spirits Fiend will take a hard pass on your vinous offerings in favour of a gin & tonic (double, of course), cuba libre, Aperol spritz or negroni. Why not appeal to their tastes and set up a cocktail station to inject some novelty into proceedings?

The ingredients don’t need to be complicated, and you could even cater to your Occasional Drinkers by offering some alcohol-free cocktail options.

It’s got to be sparkling

Chances are you’ll have some fizz lined up for midnight anyway, but given the celebratory occassion it would be remiss to not offer some to your guests when they arrive. Prosecco and Champagne are the two most obvious choices, there are also cremants, pét nats, Cava, Franciacorta to consider if you’re hosting a more open-minded crowd.

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It’s arguably become a tradition in itself: Waitrose’s Fine Wines at £10 campaign, running through December each year, is always a much-anticipated opportunity to stock up on a selection of great wines for a mere tenner per bottle.

Many if not all the wines in this year’s line up are already very good value when not discounted – delivering quality and a point of difference at prices ranging from £14.99 to £16.99 – making the promotion all the more appealing.

Affordable classics

The selection covers an interesting array of styles and regions, with a classic leaning. As the wine world grapples with sky-rocketing Burgundy prices, Cave de Lugny’s Les Charmes will make for a particularly budget-friendly addition to your festive cellar – and makes the case for the enduring relevance of quality-driven cooperatives. Montecillo’s Reserva, on the other hand, shows how Rioja remains a reliable source of classical elegance at reasonable prices.

Likewise Doña Paula’s El Alto Malbec – a truly beautiful, nuanced take on Argentina’s flagship variety, hailing from high-altitude vineyards. Winemaker Cristóbal Undurraga is doing such fantastic work producing refined expressions of the estate’s vines, while keeping them approachable and affordable.

The only fortified wine in the line up, Warre’s King’s Tawny Port, is another example of an enduring classic delivered consistently, without breaking the bank.

Decanter Premium: The perfect gift for a special wine lover

Opportunities for discovery

But the Fine Wines at £10 campaign is also an opportunity to step beyond one’s comfort zone and explore alternatives to the ‘usual suspects’.

A case in point is Bijou’s Éminence, a food-friendly pink from Languedoc-Roussillon, challenging you to consider French rosé outside Provence. Or Louis Jadot’s Beaujoulais-Quincié, a smooth Gamay, exclusive to Waitrose, that reflects a trend for ‘Burgundy adjacents’ that evoke the drinkability and affordability of the Pinot Noirs of yore.

An unoaked Bordeaux? That’s Croix des Coteaux’s proposition with its Saint-Émilion AOC – another example from a region having to somewhat reinvent itself in the face of economic challenges and changing consumer demand.

Another wine that defies expectations, Wirra Wirra’s Church Block combines the power of an Australian red with very ‘Old World’ refinement and detail.

Restraint and focus is also the hallmark of the Stich Sauvignon Blanc; it might disappoint lovers of overtly aromatic exuberant Marlborough Sauvignon but will delight those who appreciate purer, more terroir-expressive takes on both the variety and the region.

At the crossroads of classic and offbeat, Prince Alexandre’s Crémant de Loire is among a host of traditional method sparkling wines that offer intriguing alternatives to Champagne at appealing prices. This Chenin Blanc-based blend, with splashes of Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc, will not disappoint – creamy, textural and with fine mousse it makes for both a great aperitif and great companion for food.

Explore further

It’s well worth looking beyond these 11 wines though; Waitrose’s winter selection is looking very strong indeed, particularly on the fortified front. And the retailer’s own No.1 and Loved & Found ranges remain a source of well-priced, interesting discoveries, many of which produced in partnership with renowned winemakers.

Waitrose’s Fine Wines at £10

All wines tasted 21 November 2023. Prices shown here are the full retail prices, and do not reflect this, or any other, special offer.

Some wines might only be available in selected stores.

Wines grouped by style and ordered by score, in descending order.

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Christmas marks the time of year when marketing hype goes into overdrive, encouraging us all to part with our hard-earned cash for everything from the latest kids’ toys to wifi-enabled washing machines..

For many of us, it’s the one occasion every year we will spend above our comfort zone on a few bottles of wine. But there’s no need to break the bank: despite rising supply chain and duty costs, it’s still possible to pick up some delicious, Christmas-worthy wines for under £15.

The selection below covers a wide selection of regions and styles, which will pair perfectly with turkey, duck, beef, vegetarian options, or even boxing day leftovers.

Surprise the wine connoisseur in your life this Christmas with a Decanter Premium subscription

Red wine for Christmas: things to know

Avoid big tannins

Unless you’re serving beef, it’s perhaps best to save your tannic reds (think young Bordeaux, Barolo, Napa Cabernet) for another time. You’ll find that the intense flavours, punchy spices and fattiness of traditional Christmas fare does not play nicely with tannins, and the result will be an astringent mouthful.

Instead, pick out a red with softer tannins such as a Rioja Gran Reserva, Chianti Classico, Pinot Noir, or a mature vintage of Bordeaux or Barolo.

Serve cool

One of the most common mistakes when serving reds is to pour them too warm, perhaps based on the misnomer that ‘room temperature’ is ok – except these days, most of us have central heating and houses are much warmer than when this advice first circulated. If served too warm, red wines can seem ‘flabby’ and lacking in energy. Instead, aim to serve light- to medium-bodied reds at 12-16°C (54-61°F), and fuller bodied reds at 15-18°C (59-65°F). They’ll warm up once in the glass anyway.

Don’t be misled by marketing tricks

As tempting as it can be, don’t fall for snazzy labels, heavy bottles and deep punts. They’re all marketing tricks to make a wine seem more premium than it is. Instead, home in on wines from a region or made from a grape variety that you know you like, and ideally find a winery that makes wines you’ve enjoyed in the past.

Buy ‘in the middle’

The cheapest wines are a false economy, as most of the price covers packaging, shipping and duty costs with very little left for the wine in the bottle.

Equally, once you get into premium territory you’re not always just paying for better wine – while the price will cover the cost of better production, such as high quality oak barrels, you might also be paying for the prestige of the winery or the region (think Champagne), or for buying a much more limited product (the law of supply and demand…).

The optimal value-for-money window is somewhere between around £10 and £25, and below £15 you’re in bargain territory if you shop carefully.

There are resources available to help you

You can, of course, search for reviews and recommendations on decanter.com. And we strongly recommend asking your local wine merchant for guidance. They may even have some samples open for you to taste!

Christmas red wine recommendations under £15/$20

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Online supermarket Ocado has finally joined the UK’s other high-street retailers in showcasing its seasonal wine highlights.

Despite having more than 1,600 wines, a recent autumn/winter tasting focused on ‘a small snapshot’ of just 27: 11 reds, nine whites, four sparklings, two rosés and one fortified.

Being free of shelf space constraints means Ocado’s online offering boasts popular brands alongside exclusives and wines from small producers. And, like the bricks-and-mortar supermarkets, it is also promoting lesser-known regions, unusual grape varieties and wines made using innovative production methods.

In addition to offering the entire Marks & Spencer wine range, Ocado has announced a partnership with Virgin Wines. Some 50 bottles from that online retailer are available to Ocado customers.

While only five Virgin Wines were on show at the focused 27-wine tasting, they excited Decanter the most. We recommend four below: Eghemon’s Passimento Bianco, De Martino’s Old Vine Cinsault, Soleil Pierres et Vent’s Cairanne and Black Flag’s Shiraz-Viognier.

Beyond these, this year’s En Rama Fino from Tio Pepe is a great buy, as is the 2019 red blend from Lebanon’s Chateau Musar. Of the Ocado exclusives, we particularly enjoyed the Provence-like white from La Baume.

A notable benefit is that customers can filter their search on Ocado.com to find wines that suit their dietary needs. There are currently 44 organic, 307 vegan, 330 vegetarian and four Fairtrade wines.

The six-strong buying team, headed by Vanessa Pearson, intentionally avoided featuring M&S wines in their inaugural tasting as they are already familiar to most UK shoppers. But it is interesting to note that more M&S sparkling wines are sold via Ocado than in Marks & Spencer stores.

Ocado’s wider portfolio also includes 1,000 spirits, ready-to-drink and no-and-low alcohol beverages, along with 600 beers and ciders.

Ocado wines: Best buys for your online shop

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Your wine choices, as your wardrobe’s, are subject to seasonal review. It’s a matter of weather and it’s a matter of mood. So what does the arrival of autumn (and the faint hope of an Indian summer) call for? Versatile wines with character and food-pairing appeal.

Pale rosés give way to their fuller-bodied counterparts, chillable reds make space in the fridge for rich whites and bolder reds sneak in. Cocktail recipes get zesty and spicy, perfect for longer autumn evenings.

Fittingly-coloured orange wines are also perfect autumnal wines. At once refreshing and generous, for these moody days when sun and rain might be out within the same hour. And as the season’s produce starts to fill market stalls these amber-hued wines will give you perfect and versatile food pairing options.

Scroll down for tasting notes and scores of 12 orange wines to try this autumn

How is orange wine made?

An orange wine is made from white grapes fermented in contact with the skins – hence why they are also called skin-contact wines.

The light hue of most commercially available white wine is a result of the separation of the juice from the skins immediately or shortly after the grapes arrive at the cellar, by pressing the bunches. Fermentation happens without the skins thus preventing the extraction of colour, tannins and other polyphenolic compounds.

The length of maceration (the period when skins are left in contact with the juice before, during and after fermentation) determines the colour intensity of an orange wine. Fermentation temperature as well as the vessel used for fermentation and/or ageing also have a role to play.

As mentioned above, maceration extracts tannins and flavours compounds in addition to colour, which is why orange wines tend to have a distinct textural character (often described as grippy), some weight on the palate and, therefore, great food pairing appeal.

It’s sometimes said that orange wines are ‘white wines produced like a red’. However, historically, fermentation on the skins was the rule for all grapes, red and white, namely because these were often grown and fermented together. The concept of single-varietal wine and mono-varietal planting is very recent in the history of wine.

Even when varieties started being planted and vinified separately, wines were rarely light and clear in the glass. Light-hued white wines are a modern invention, only made possible by modern winemaking techniques such as cold settling, sterile filtration, temperature control and routine use of sulphites. Wines used to have a slight hue due to a degree of oxidation if not skin contact.

Millennial revival

As the industrialisation of wine production took hold, orange wines – perceived as less sophisticated, symbols of a less technologically advanced era – lost territory to modern ‘cleaner’ styles. They survived in regions where the wine sector struggled to establish itself as an industry, such as the Balkans, and at the hands of mavericks such as Josko Gravner and Stanko Radikon.

Orange wines were rediscovered at the beginning of the 21st century as part of a backlash against the standardisation of industrially-produced wine and the resulting loss of diversity of grape varieties, styles and traditions.

Orange wine was adopted by the ‘natural wine movement’ as its flagship style and propelled to the international stage as a beacon of resistance to commercially-made wines. Skin-contact became shorthand for low intervention as both producers and consumers increased their awareness of the sustainability implications of mass production.

Countries, like Georgia and Slovenia, where the style had remained firmly in production throughout the 20th century, found a new, enthusiastic audience and encouraged new producers. The vibrant natural wine community in Austria and Italy passionately embraced orange wines, with producers like Gut Oggau, COS, Claus Preisinger and Elisabetta Foradori releasing some of the defining wines of the dawn of the new millennium.

Winemakers in Portugal, Spain and Chile started researching their own regions’ historical iterations of orange wine – especially those produced in clay vessels – while adventurous ‘new world’ winemakers also embraced the style. Even producers in England and Wales are exploring the expressive potential of fermenting white grapes on their skins.

The result was a fresh understanding of the history of many wine regions, of the expressive potential of white varieties, and of how wine styles need to be seen in a spectrum rather than classified as ‘black (or red) or white’.

It’s important not to confuse orange wine and natural wine: the latter is a style while the former is a technique. It follows that not all orange wine is necessarily natural, and vice versa – i.e. skin-contact wine is not necessarily ‘funky’ or low intervention.

While texture and complexity are attributes of all (good) amber-hued wines, they can also be extremely refined. You will find a range of expressions, and both adventurous and classical wine lovers will surely find an orange wine they love. This style is not as divisive as one might think.

Tannins, flavour, texture – perfect food wines

Aromatic complexity, structure and textural character are what make orange wines special. At the crossroads of a red and white wine, they playfully stimulate and challenge the senses. Imagine the freshness and taught acidity of a white wine entwined with the tannic grip and suppleness of a red. What could possibly be better to pair with food?

Many orange wines are perfect companions for cheese platters, smoked fish, root vegetable-based dishes and roasted meat. They usually have a herbal, savoury edge that brings a meal’s flavours to life, supported by gentle tannins and firm acidity.

Best enjoyed only slightly chilled, skin-contact wines have a fresh vibrancy but also a sense of textural warmth, perfect to ease yourself into autumn’s mood. Nothing better than a picnic with a amber-hued bottle alongside the season’s harvest bounty – grapes, pear and Mediterranean citrus – before the winter’s loom sets in.

Great orange wines for autumn – 12 to try:

The wines below have been tasted and rated by Decanter’s editorial team and contributors.

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With the autumn equinox on the horizon on 22 September, days are getting shorter and late summer nostalgia weaves into the appeal of longer evenings and richer meals. Darker rosés are some of the best transitional wines for this period.

As we enjoy the last of the season’s barbecues and garden parties, these deep-hued pours are best enjoyed alongside some nibbles and served slightly less chilled than their paler counterparts.

Regions and appellations producing dark rosé wines:

Cerasuolo d’Abbruzzo – Abruzzo, Italy

Chiaretto di Bardolino – Verona, Italy

Cigales and Ribera del Duero – Spain (namely Clarete styles)

Nemea – Peloponnese, Greece

Tavel – Rhône, France

What makes the colour of a rosé more or less intense?

Two main factors contribute to the colour of a rosé wine: winemaking method and grape variety.

Wine gets its colour from the grape skins. The longer the grape juice is in contact (or macerated) with the skins, the more colour, aroma, flavour and tannin will be extracted.

Pale Provence-style rosés are mostly produced using the direct press method without extended maceration.

Whereas Tavel winemakers typically macerate for up to 48 hours, for wines comparatively more intense and deeper-hued. For context, in red wine production the juice macerates on the grape skins for anything from a week to over a month.

Grapes with thicker skins will produce more colour in the wine than thin-skinned varieties. Hence why a rosé made from Garnacha is generally more intense than one produced from Pinot Noir, if macerated for a similar number of hours.

A traditional style, revived

Pale rosé wines are in fact a relatively modern trend, dating back to the 1980s, only made possible by technological advancements in refrigeration, cold stabilisation and sterile filtration.

Previously, rosé wines were more akin to light reds in both colour and structure. They were either a product of short, but not insignificant, macerations or co-fermentation of red and white grapes. Generally produced as a cheaper wine for local consumption, they were often seen as ‘farmer’s wines’ which in turn led to the perception of light rosés as a more sophisticated alternative.

There is, however, renewed interest in these more traditional styles of rosé, fuelled by a growing movement towards terroir specificity, historical research, varietal expression and low-intervention winemaking.

The revival of Clarete in Spain and Palhete in Portugal is an example of this new trend.

Perfect food companions

It’s not by chance that the French call these deeper hued wines ‘rosés d’assiette’ – in other words, rosés to eat with. Dark rosés are ideal food companions and versatile when it comes to pairings.

Whether you are planning the season’s last barbecues or looking for a dry alternative to serve alongside fruit-based desserts, an intense rosé will not let you down. Their textural richness, aromatic intensity and subtle tannins are the ideal combination to handle a wide range of foods, and therefore often favoured by sommeliers.

Dark rosé wines for late summer drinking:

Wines shown in score order

Related content:

Welcome to the dark side: Champagne’s Rosé de Saignée

Best rosé wines beyond Provence

Best rosé wines: 30 to try this summer

Cap Classique, South Africa’s signature sparkling wine, has plenty to offer wine lovers. Made in the same way as Champagne, with a secondary fermentation in bottle, Cap Classique costs a fraction of the price, with an array of styles to choose from.

Admittedly Cap Classique has a much shorter history than Champagne. It was first made at Simonsig in 1971 by the late Frans Malan, who dubbed his traditional-method brut sparkling wine Kaapse Vonkel – or Cape Sparkle.

At a time when most of the country’s fizz was cheap, sweet and carbonated, the sophisticated style of Kaapse Vonkel stood out. But it would be another decade until a second South African winery – Boschendal – also decided to make a dry traditional-method sparkler in the 1980s.

The style gained momentum gradually. As producers began to share knowledge and ideas, the name Méthode Cap Classique was adopted to identify their premium product. The Cap Classique Producers Association (CCPA) was founded in 1992.

Although Cap Classique only celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2021, it has been one of South Africa’s fastest-growing wine categories in recent years.

What is Cap Classique?

The CCPA has a series of guidelines for production of Cap Classique, which can be made anywhere in the Cape winelands. First, the wine must ferment on its lees in the same bottle that it will be sold in. Second, that period of lees ageing must be for a minimum of 12 months (though it is often longer for top wines).

Since the 2023 harvest whole-bunch pressing is mandatory. The CCPA also requires its members to use only the first 450 litres of juice from pressing 1,000kg of grapes to make their top expressions. That figure rises to 600 litres for simpler styles.

The main styles of Cap Classique are defined by their residual sugar levels. Brut must have below 12g per litre of residual sugar, Extra Brut below 6g/L and Brut Nature below 3g/L.

Perhaps surprisingly there are no legal restrictions on permitted grape varieties for Cap Classique. While the CCPA recommends the classic Champagne varieties – Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier – other grapes including Chenin Blanc and Pinotage are used.

Names to know

Although Cap Classique can be made across South Africa, certain regions have become known for their quality. The hardened limestone soils of Robertson produce elegant Chardonnay-led Cap Classiques, assisted by cooling ocean breezes, funnelled by the Langeberg and Riviersonderend mountains.

Other names to look out for on labels are: Elgin, Darling, Durbanville, Overberg, Plettenberg Bay and Walker Bay. These cooler regions are a good source for the Pinot Noir used in Cap Classique blends.

While pioneering wineries Simonsig and Boschendal continue to make Cap Classique, they are no longer lone rangers. The CCPA has grown from just 14 founding members in 1992 to more than 100 today.

What differentiates them on a global stage? The minimum of 12 months lees ageing for Cap Classique positions it neatly between the nine-month minimum for French crémant or Spain’s Cava and the 15-month minimum for non-vintage Champagne.

Not as cheap as Prosecco, but cheaper than Champagne or English sparkling wine, Cap Classique is a style of fizz that hugely over-delivers for the price. If you want to explore the category, here are some good value recommendations chosen by the Decanter team…

Best Cap Classique: value picks

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Vino is integral to Argentine culture. Imports can be prohibitively expensive, but – despite Argentina’s volatile economy – domestic wine consumption remains steady. Local wines are even more affordable for international visitors and many vinotecas (wine shops) hold tastings in both English and Portuguese (as well as Spanish, of course).

Over the past five years, many sommeliers have flown their restaurant coops and launched solo projects. These new vinotecas offer expert advice and stock interesting, hard-to-find wines from smaller Argentinian producers whose wines don’t usually reach the larger wine retailers (such as Ligier).

Porteños (as Buenos Aires residents are known) have been particularly captivated by the development of hybrid vinoteca-restaurants – offering wines at retail prices, alongside food. Aldo’s Vinoteca led this initial charge in 2011; Naranjo Bar (@naranjo_bar), a hipster haven serving small plates and eye-catching labels, followed suit in 2020 and a movement has since spawned, including Diviiino’s three locations and Veredita de Vinos. Other worthy mentions include Vinoteca SOIL in Recoleta, Ozono in Parque Patricios and Lo de Joaquín Alberdi in Palermo Soho.

Buenos Aires wine shops: 10 of the best

Anchoíta Cava (@anchoitacava)

Grab a takeaway bottle or be lured inside this compact vinoteca and bar that’s bursting with energy. Renowned sommelier Valeria Mortara leads the dynamic team here (and at sibling restaurant, the Michelin green-star Anchoíta, a block away), serving more than 50 wines by the glass, in-house cured charcuterie and more than 100 cheeses. The street-side tables are bustling with sommeliers keen to hone their palates on Achoíta’s stock of hard-to-find (at least in Argentina) international wines. Pull up a stool inside for a more relaxed vibe. Anchoíta Cava opens from midday, Tuesday to Sunday. No bookings.

La Cava de Lucia

During the pandemic, newly minted sommelier Lucia Cordera curated mixed cases of wines for consumers. She was so successful that she opened a bricks-and-mortar store in 2022 – a stunning, modern space in Las Cañitas, adorned with beautiful artwork and minimalist, Scandi-style furnishings. Cordera organises weekly tastings for consumers, with both boutique producers and traditional wineries. All are paired with cheese and charcuterie, served at an enchanting communal table.

La Cueva de Musu (@mr.wines)

In 2014, wine aficionado Fernando ‘Musu’ Musumeci converted a launderette in the offbeat Caballito neighbourhood and opened La Cueva (the cave), quickly garnering a dedicated following through word of mouth. Musumeci introduced drinkers to a bold new wine world, attracting those who had tired of supermarket offerings. He keeps an eagle eye out for bargains as well as interesting wines from smaller producers, and the lesser-known side projects of winemakers from larger bodegas.

Lardito

Behind the floor-to-ceiling street-side window, lies one of Buenos Aires’ hippest vinotecas, that doubles up as a casual restaurant. Since opening in April 2022, Lardito has inspired a new generation of wine lovers. Book a spot at the impossibly long communal table – made from polished granite and adorned with towering vases of gerberas – or sip on the outdoor patio. The 150-strong selection has been expertly curated by sommeliers Pipe Colloca, Julián Palomieri and Lourdes Calo. ‘Put simply, we stock wines we like – both conventional and unconventional,’ says Collaca. Star dishes for sharing include Japanese tataki and xiaolongbao (Chinese steamed buns).

La Vinícola (@la.vinicola)

La Vinícola is one of (Catena Zapata winemaker) Alejandro Vigil’s many side projects. Stocking more than 1,500 wines, from Argentina’s largest bodegas to small-scale independent projects, it’s located in the heart of trendy Palermo Soho. (There’s also a store in Mendoza.) Led by a team of four sommeliers, it’s directed by Paola Mattera, who always asks aficionados ‘what exactly do you like?’ Try before you buy, enjoying a glass outside on the deck with a plate of cured meats.

Nilson (@nilson.une)

Tucked away in the southern side of the legendary Mercado de San Telmo, this trusted wine shop and bar allows curious punters to soak up the market’s ambience with a glass of something tasty in hand. Sommelier Samantha Nilson is determined to open drinkers’ minds to new styles and varieties. With a list of 20 wines available by the glass (changing weekly), it’s easy to traverse all the colours of Argentina’s wine rainbow here.

Pain et Vin

In a prime location in trendy Palermo Soho, Pain et Vin (Bread and Wine) caters to an international clientele who want to taste the diversity of Argentina’s terroir. Sommelier Eleonora Jezzi opened Pain et Vin in 2013 with her baker husband Ohad Weiner, who kickstarted the local sourdough movement. Keen to educate, Jezzi’s young sommelier team leads two tastings a day in both English and Spanish, delving into the 250-strong cellar selection. The by-the-glass list changes daily and there’s a substantial selection available via Coravin, too.

Tinte

Andy Donadio made a name for herself at Oporto Almacén restaurant a decade ago and was crowned Argentina’s best sommelier in 2022. During Covid, Andy teamed up with Oporto’s Rodrigo Colombres to create Tinte, an online wine store focusing on Argentinian wines. The 300-strong list covers everything from well-known brands such as Catena Zapata to next-gen Pielihueso’s El Gallo Clara, an innovative blend of red, rosé and skin-contact white wines. Tinte also hosts intimate in-person tastings for small groups (up to 12 guests).

Vino El Salvador

Guile Carnevali honed his service skills at top Buenos Aires restaurants including the former World’s 50 Best-ranked Tegui (now closed). He’s since launched Soma and Aurea, two distributors that spotlight small producers. Vino El Salvador (the playful name means ‘Wine is our saviour’), is the direct-to-consumer arm, stocking brands such as Finca Suarez and Onofri, as well as hard-to-find and collector wines. Look out for magnums from Bodega Chacra, Zuccardi and the new kid on the block, Raquis. The store also sources interesting verticals: for example, Noemia J Alberto Malbec (2018–2021), Casa Yagüe Sauvignon Blanc (2018–2021) and Ver Sacrum Geisha de Jade (2016–2022).

Vini Bar (@vini__bar)

Low-intervention labels are at the heart of Vini, a wine bar and store, with a 90-wine list curated by sommelier Luciano Sosto. Favourites include Bodega Chacra’s Syrah and Canopus’ cool-climate Pintom Pinot Noir. Take wines away, or enjoy a flight of whatever’s open that day, watching the world pass by from behind the sash window. Note that Vini is one of few vinotecas to open Mondays (closed on Tuesdays instead).

Winemakers Vinoteca – Bar de Vinos (@winemakers.vinoteca)

Winemakers Vinoteca hosts one of Buenos Aires’ best happy ‘hours’, from 5-8pm daily, offering two-for-one on a selection of 10 wines by the glass. Sommelier Juan Casarsa stocks more than 400 wines, focusing on small producers. The private salon in the back often sees oenologists leading guided tastings; recent guests included Gonzalo Tamagnini of Uco Valley’s Desquiciado Wines.

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It wasn’t all that long ago that judging the rosé class in a New Zealand wine show was a bit like receiving a competition booby prize. Quality was as variable as the colours, but alas, not nearly as enticing.

New Zealand’s rosés may still come in a veritable rainbow of pink hues, but the quality has taken a huge leap forward as winemakers, following the global trend in rosé appreciation, have stepped up their game.

Hawke’s Bay consultant winemaker Damian Fischer observes: ‘The industry is clearly taking the category seriously and putting more effort into crafting these wines. The trend for paler colours and drier styles is continuing and I’ve noticed more freshness, purity and delicacy in the wines without sacrificing flavour.’

Rosé wines are produced the length and breadth of the country, though as expected, the output from industry engine room Marlborough surpasses all other regions.

Grapes and regions

Pinot Noir is the country’s most common red grape variety and accordingly produces the majority of rosés, be they still or sparkling. But there is a decent range of Merlot and Syrah-based wines to be found, alongside a few of the less usual suspects. These include Malbec, Pinotage, Cabernet Franc and even Tempranillo. Occasionally, white varieties such as Pinot Gris or Chardonnay are also slipped in, though generally only in small blending fractions.

Regional variation tends to reflect the respective climatic and varietal makeups. So you can expect to find more robust, spicy Merlot or Syrah-based wines from Hawke’s Bay. Meanwhile Marlborough and Central Otago’s focus is generally bright, aromatic berry fruit-rich Pinot Noir-based wines. The latter’s cooler climes add crisper acidity as well as cherries and fresh herbs.

Most wines showcase New Zealand’s signature fruit purity; vibrant and refreshing, they’re intended to be consumed nicely chilled within a year or so of harvest, and are generally dry or just off-dry, though a few have a crowd-pleasing hint of residual sugar for that lusher mouthfeel. There is also a small diverse faction of winemakers experimenting with degrees of skin contact, oxidative winemaking, oak or amphorae.

Unfortunately many rosés don’t leave New Zealand’s shores. Export figures have climbed from 0.7 million litres in 2014 to 4.3 million litres in 2023, according to the New Zealand Winegrowers Annual Report 2023. However producers either have a strong enough domestic sales base, or instead struggle to find a place in the hyper-competitive global rosé market. So should you happen to spot one of the following wines on the shelves in your own market, best snap it up quick.

Top New Zealand rosé: 20 to try

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Barcelona is the undisputed jewel in the crown of the beautiful Catalan coast. With its unique architecture, gastronomy, vibrant nightlife and warm, sunny weather, the city’s global popularity is unsurprising.

There are currently 28 Michelin-star restaurants in Barcelona and the restaurant scene touches every cuisine imaginable. Yet the real charm and beauty of Barcelona’s food culture is to be found in fresh, local ingredients and informal dining. Locals typically enjoy a light snack in the sunshine with friends and a glass of vermouth, particularly in the long, summer evenings that stretch into the night.

Of course, where gastronomy flourishes, so does wine.

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It’s hard to believe it now, but once upon a time, Barcelona suffered from ‘Rioja-itis’ – it seemed that every bar and restaurant served Rioja, Rueda and little else. Now, Barcelona’s wine scene has something for everyone.

Catalonia’s distinct wine regions are well represented in Barcelona. The very best Catalan wines are to be found in Barcelona’s bars, shops and restaurants – including those produced in quantities too small for wider retail distribution.

There are plenty of bricks-and-mortar bottle shops in Barcelona. High summer temperatures, small homes and a lack of professional wine storage means large at-home wine collections are rare. Most neighbourhoods have good wine stores, or bodegas, where residents can find the perfect bottle of good wine to accompany the evening meal.

Wherever you are in Barcelona, it’s always worth exploring your local neighbourhood – chances are you’ll have a great local wine shop nearby.

Below are 10 of the best.

Bodega Maestrazgo

Bodega Maestrazgo is a third-generation family business, operating since 1952. Bordering the Born, Gotic and Eixample districts, it’s an authentic neighbourhood bodega complete with ‘vino a granel’, bulk wine served direct from large barrels. There’s an excellent selection of mostly Spanish wines. The bodega regularly organises social events and tastings too. You can drink your purchase inside the bodega for a small corkage fee.

El Petit Celler

Barcelona has a growing ex-pat community and the international wine scene is expanding with it. El Petit Celler stocks more than 250 wines from around the world. Sommelier and owner, Sebastián Lozano, routinely introduces wines from his own collection, selling bottles as special lots or serving by the glass via Coravin. El Petit Celler is one of the few places in Spain where you can purchase a €8 Catalan Garnatxa and also sample a glass of mature, grand cru Burgundy. There is also an online shop offering free shipping for orders over €80.

L’Ànima del Vi

L’Anima del Vi is the original mecca for natural wine lovers in Barcelona, run by the delightful Benoît Valée and Núria Rodríguez. The menu is short and charming, continually changing according to season and the availability of fresh produce. But the real beauty here is the wine list, including some of the most exclusive names in the natural wine world. An evening spent with a bottle of L’Anglore Tavel is no hardship after a long day on the beach!

La Vinícola

La Vinícola is a gem in the heart of the Eixample district. Owner Victor Jiménez focuses on Catalan wines, from both French and Spanish sides of the border. As a result, La Vinícola has the city’s best selection of wines from Roussillon. A beautiful, spacious store in Carrer Girona, this is a great spot to grab a bottle with a strong Catalan identity, with a particular focus on Empordà and the north of Spain.

Magaztem Escola

Magatzem Escola is one of the biggest and best – yet least-known – wine shops in Barcelona. It’s located next to Parc Ciutadella, behind the Born Cultural Centre. Hidden away on a quiet street, this vast store has deep cellars and an incredible selection of wines from across Spain. It also stocks spirits, with a strong selection of whiskies. The sheer range of wines, helpful staff and enomatic machines (serving wine by the glass from around 20 bottles at a time) make Magatzem Escola a must-visit if you’re in the neighbourhood. Wines can also be purchased online.

Món Vínic Bar de Vinos y Quesos

Previously known as Món Vínic store, this bar is a spinoff of the (sadly now closed) Món Vínic restaurant. Run by Delia Garcia and her team, it’s arguably the very best hybrid wine bar-shop in the city, with a stunning array of minimal-intervention wines from around the world. In-store wine purchases can be consumed in the wine (and raw-milk cheese) bar for a €10 corkage fee; wines can also be purchased online.

Outlet de Vinos

Located in the Eixample district, Vila Viniteca’s Outlet de Vinos is the place to find good-quality, ready-to-drink wines from older vintages at a good price. If you’re local to Barcelona, it’s worth following the Outlet on social media for offers on wines as they are released from the depths of Vila Viniteca’s cellars. This is the perfect place to find that special bottle.

Salut Wine Studio

Salut Wine Studio changed hands in 2023 and is now one of the most exciting venues in Barcelona. There’s a strong focus on local Catalan producers and it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a smartly curated selection that won’t overwhelm you. The wine tastings and especially the ‘wine casino’ nights are a lot of fun. Located right on the edge of the Born district, close to the Arc de Triomf.

Viblioteca

This modern, well-lit wine ‘library’ and bar in Gracia is the work of owner-sommelier and cheese lover, Yolanda Villegas. There’s an incredible selection of more than 50 cheeses to complement the well-stocked wine list, and a variety of other cold plates. Both wine and food can be ordered online for home delivery.

Vila Viniteca

Vila Viniteca is arguably the premier wine store in Barcelona; it’s also the largest wine distributor in the region. There are three Vila Viniteca stores in Barcelona, but the Born store is the flagship, with every fraction of wall space crammed with bottles from around the world. What you see in store is only a fraction of what’s available, too. It also has cavernous cellars, so it is always worth asking if you’re looking for something specific. Wines can also be purchased online.

When you’ve finished shopping, visit the store’s excellent wine bar, La Vinya del Senyor, just around the corner by the 14th-century Basilica di Santa Maria del Mar.

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Some of the best biodynamic wines are produced by small-scale, independent growers all over the globe, while other examples incorporate prestigious labels.

Below, you’ll find some great biodynamic wines reviewed by Decanter experts to help you raise a toast to the wider movement for environmental protection on Earth Day 2024 – on Monday 22 April.

Taking inspiration from scientist and philosopher Rudolf Steiner, biodynamics is rooted in a holistic vision of vineyard management, respectful of soil and nature and promoting a form of ecological harmony.

It is also associated with lower intervention in the winemaking cellar, to a stronger extent than organic approaches.

As with organics, some wineries choose to pursue certification, while others have long adopted biodynamic principles without seeking such ‘official’ certifications, which come from bodies including Demeter and Biodyvin, and whose logos adorn the bottles of wines which meet the various criteria.

As Decanter’s Amy Wislocki wrote in her article of biodynamics in winemaking, ‘both Biodyvin and Demeter have rules on growing and vinification that can be stricter than organic alone – for example, less use of copper sulphate per hectare, and the use of natural yeasts for fermentation’.

Châteaux Palmer, Pontet-Canet and Climens in Bordeaux are leading proponents of biodynamic wines, but others in the region have been embracing the methods, as Simon Woolf highlighted in this article.

Jean-Baptiste Lécaillon, the highly regarded chef de cave and executive vice-president at Louis Roederer, owner of Cristal, has credited biodynamics with enhancing a ‘fight for freshness’ in Champagne vintages, in particular. He has previously spoken of how biodynamic approaches encourage greater attention to detail in the vineyard and critical thinking.

Some producers have said biodynamic approaches enhance the expression of terroir in the glass, although the skill and expertise of the winemaker is inevitably a big factor in terms of overall wine quality, while higher costs can be a downside of biodynamics.

Best biodynamic wines: a selection of top bottles to seek out

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However, not all Manhattan-based wine stores are created equal, and seeking one that best suits your needs is a great place to start. Whether looking for well-aged greats from France and Italy or a unique selection of low-intervention or natural wines, Manhattan certainly has a well-stocked store for you; it’s simply a matter of knowing where to look.

We’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up a curated list of Manhattan’s best wine shops, and a couple from Brooklyn. Our picks cover a diverse array of selections and are situated across a variety of NYC neighbourhoods. In short? If you’re in Manhattan, access to great wine is likely just a few blocks away.

Manhattan

Millesima USA (Upper East Side)

Now located at its brand new address of 1257 Second Avenue at E. 66th Street, this long-standing New York icon debuts a new chapter of its historic story. Founded in 1983 in Bordeaux, the family-owned company opened its New York retail location back in 2006 and is best known for its luxurious design and fine wine / collectable offerings, though it doesn’t stop there. In addition to sought-after Bordeaux (the shop’s undeniable speciality), Millesima also offers a large array of mid-range drinkers from Burgundy and Champagne, as well as smaller lineups from America, the southern hemisphere, and the Iberian peninsula.

Astor Wines & Spirits (Greenwich Village)

For one of New York’s largest wine and spirits selections – as well as some of its lowest, unbeatable prices – look no further than Astor Wines & Spirits. Located at 399 Lafayette Street, this long-standing, warehouse-esque store is situated in a landmark 19th-century building and offers a massive variety of wines and spirits from around the world. Whether seeking out something quirky (a Sagrantino, Vermentino and Dolcetto pét-nat from Australia, anyone?) or gems for the cellar, Astor Wines & Spirits (hello, 2021 Chablis Grand Cru Valmur from Raveneau) truly has something for every wine drinker in the city. You likely won’t find the bottle you’re looking for at a better price. As of 2022, Astor Wines & Spirits officially became an employee-owned company and today stocks an impressive 5,000+ SKUs.

Crush Wine & Spirits (Midtown East)

Situated in Manhattan’s Midtown East neighbourhood, Crush Wine & Spirits was founded by native New Yorkers Drew Nieporent, Josh Guberman, and Robert Schagrin back in 2005. The shop focuses on its ‘pillar’ regions: Champagne, Burgundy, Piedmont, Beaujolais, Germany, Loire and Northern Rhône, though also offers a variety of selections from South America, Austria and beyond. Crush also has a Fine & Rare department providing corporate gifting services and one-on-one cellar building consulting. In addition, it regularly offers early access to special offers and discounts via email (be sure to sign up to the mailing list!). Current feature highlights include Pascal Cotat Sancerre, a White Burgundy selection dating back to 2008, and ‘Jura Rarities’ from Montbourgeau, Domaine du Pélican and Fumey-Chatelain.

Parcelle (Midtown West)

Every so often, a new wine shop comes to Manhattan’s scene and gives its historic counterparts a run for their money. Such is the case for Parcelle, which first opened its doors back in 2018. Spearheaded by sommelier Grant Reynolds, Parcelle marks the first retail concept for the city’s beloved Delicious Hospitality Group, which is best known as the brains behind Charlie Bird, Pasquale Jones and Legacy Records. The shop offers a variety of daily drinkers and mid-range offerings, as well as a Fine & Rare section that promises to wow collectors of all stripes (think large-format Champagne, back-vintage Mascarello and more). Parcelle offers a daily deal, which is easily found at the top of its website and, as of summer 2022, also has a partner wine bar at 135 Division Street that offers similar by-the-glass pours and regular on-site events.

Somm Cellars (Upper West Side)

Like Parcelle, Somm Cellars is also a welcome new addition to Manhattan’s wine shop scene. Owned by friends (and industry vets) Jason Jacobeit and Daniel Jung, formerly of Bâtard and Tribeca Grill, respectively, Somm Cellars seeks to bring a curated array of wines and spirits to New York’s Upper West Side with an emphasis on high-level hospitality and inclusivity. The shop is situated on the ground floor of One Waterline Square, which doubles as the perfect backdrop for hosting a variety of events. The team sends out daily email offers featuring discounted back-vintage bottles (recent offers include 1983 Château Talbot, St-Julien and Robert Chevillon wines dating back to 1997) and also sells an array of accessories, including Zalto and Riedel glassware along with Coravin preservation devices.

Chambers Street Wines (Tribeca)

Deemed one of the OG natural wine stores in New York, Chambers Street Wines’ massive influence on the industry still reverberates today. Founded in 2001 by David Lillie and Jamie Wolff, this artisanal wine-focused staple recently moved from its original location at 149 Chambers Street down to 79 Chambers Street, yet its focus remains the same. Chambers has long pioneered small-batch wines from growers committed to sustainability, with an emphasis on the Loire Valley, Burgundy, Piedmont and Austria. In the words of the shop: ‘Every wine we stock is tasted, re-tasted, debated,’ and the commitment to authenticity, coupled with the shop’s knowledgeable staff, is undeniably what’s made it a Manhattan wine staple for over 20 years.

Flatiron Wines & Spirits (Flatiron)

Flatiron Wine & Spirits has been an institution in the Flatiron / Union Square / NoMad area since its opening in 2012. Last year, the shop relocated from its original 21st / 22nd Street location to a roomier space on 18th and Broadway, allowing for on-site events, classes – and, of course, more carefully sourced wines. In addition to a robust Burgundy section, what Flatiron does best is its daily drinker selection, with a plentiful amount of bottles clocking in between the $15 and $25 dollar price points. Whether classically styled bottles or more eccentric natural wines are what you’re after, this well-curated shop’s got something for every price point.

Wine Therapy (Nolita)

Natural wine lovers in the know are no strangers to the powerful impact that Wine Therapy has had on the city’s burgeoning, low-intervention wine scene. Founded in 2005 by Jean-Baptiste Humbert, Wine Therapy began pioneering eclectic, off-the-beaten-path grape varieties, regions and producers far before doing so was fashionable, and today continues to stock its shelves with the same ethos as day one. Expect classic natural wine pillars such as Les Capriades, Agnès et René Mosse, and Fabien Jouves to grace the shelves, as well as more eccentric picks from Greece, Slovenia and beyond. (The shop also boasts an impressive lineup of rosé, orange wines and pét-nats.) Wine Therapy also offers curated cases and free local delivery, as well as delivery throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn for an added fee.

Brooklyn

Leon & Son (Clinton Hill)

In the realm of Brooklyn wine shop offerings, Leon & Son has completely changed the game. Founded by industry veteran Chris Leon back in 2015, the shop fervently (and successfully) pursued its initial goal of becoming Clinton Hill’s go-to neighbourhood wine shop – and has since taken the entire borough by storm. Focused on ‘hidden gem wines from progressive and natural winemakers’, Leon’s selection highlights classics and newcomers alike while shedding equal light on classic regions (Piedmont, Burgundy, Champagne) and lesser-known areas in other countries (Portugal, Australia, and South Africa).

Brooklyn Wine Exchange (Cobble Hill)

Situated on the border of Brooklyn Heights and Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Wine Exchange first opened its doors in 2009 and has since become a pillar in the borough’s off-premise wine industry. The shop’s friendly staff and easy-to-navigate site make exploring new wines easy and hassle free, with prompts like ‘chilled reds’, ‘crisp mineral whites’, ‘certified biodynamic’ and ‘vegan-friendly’ promising to lead new drinkers and seasoned wine lovers alike to something new and exciting. The shop also offers annual memberships for $100, with benefits including 10% off wines and 5% off most spirits with every in-person or online purchase. We’d also be remiss not to highlight the impeccably curated spirits selection, which features a variety of classic whiskies and agave-based spirits, as well as amari, liqueurs and vermouths.

Additional wine shop recommendations in Manhattan:

Beaupierre Wine & Spirits (Hell’s Kitchen)

Morrell Wine (Midtown)

Pasanella & Son Vintners (Downtown / South Street Seaport)

Tribeca Wine Merchants (Tribeca)

Convive Wine & Spirits (East Village)

Discovery Wines (Lower East Side)

Wine & Unwind (Harlem)

Grape Collective (Upper West Side)

Eastside Cellars (Upper East Side)

Additional wine shop recommendations in Brooklyn

Vine Wine (Williamsburg)

Smith & Vine (Carroll Gardens)

VyneYard (Prospect Lefferts Gardens)

Slope Cellars (Park Slope)

Thirst Wine Merchants (Fort Greene)

Good Wine (Park Slope)

Vanderbilt Ave Wine Merchants (Prospect Heights)

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In 2023 global Champagne shipments fell by around 8% to 299 million bottles but Champagne remains a firm favourite with UK customers and is particularly popular as a celebration wine.

With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, rosé Champagne is in sharp focus right now. This is a category which has been on the rise for a while, but how is rosé Champagne made and what should it be paired with?

See the results of the Decanter vintage rosé Champagne panel tasting

Rosé on the rise

While non-vintage rosé Champagne is still a popular choice with consumers, sommelier Jan Konetzki notes that vintage and prestige cuvée rosé Champagnes are gaining traction, particularly in restaurants.

It’s easy to see why, as many of the best examples can work brilliantly at the dinner table – whether it’s Valentine’s Day or not.

The list below features rosé Champagnes reviewed by our experts and available at a range of prices, with some great value options to more expensive choices over £300 a bottle.

How rosé Champagne is made

There are two ways to achieve the pink hue of rosé Champagne: rosé d’assemblage or saignée.

Rosé d’assemblage

Champagne is the only region where the blending of red and white wine is permitted for the production of rosé wines, and it is common across quality levels.

A small amount of red wine made from Pinot Noir and/or Pinot Meunier is added to the white base wine prior to its second fermentation. The percentage of red wine added at this stage depends on the producer’s preference and can vary from 5% to more than 15%.

The aim is to ensure that the freshness and tension of the Champagne is maintained. Carine Bailleul, chef de cave at Champagne Castelnau, says her goal is ‘to have a fine balance between fruitiness, sweetness, colour and acidity’.

It goes without saying, therefore, that the red wine added should be of high quality. It not only contributes colour to the finished Champagne, but also flavour and texture.

Saignée

The saignée method involves bleeding off the pink-tinged juice from macerating red grapes.

Louis Roederer uses a version of this technique alongside cold maceration to make Cristal rosé, for instance.

The Fleur de Miraval variant uses the saignée method, blended with top Chardonnay, according to winemaker Rodolphe Péters, who worked on the project alongside Brad Pitt and the Perrin family.

How rosé Champagne tastes

It is difficult to generalise about what rosé Champagne tastes like because styles can vary, yet many will have noticeable red berry characters alongside citrus such as grapefruit and orange. In more complex styles, such as vintage rosé, you might find this balanced with the traditional autolytic flavours of Champagne, such as brioche or bread-like aromas, associated with ageing on lees.

Rosé Champagne and food pairing

Pink Champagne is versatile when it comes to food pairing. Richer styles can stand up to bigger flavours and richer foods, while the more delicate, fruit-driven wines make for a stylish aperitif. Sweeter styles such as demi-sec are a great match for fruit-forward desserts.

Konetzki recommends ‘a colossal, Pinot Noir-heavy prestige cuvée like Bollinger La Grande Année Rosé with Peking duck’. The plum sauce in the dish matches the sweet plummy flavours in the wine.

He suggests a beetroot Wellington with something like the Philipponnat Clos des Goisses Juste Rosé. The pastry-rich, fruity, earthy flavours in the wine pair perfectly with the sweet, earthy beetroot.

For extra glamour, add some preserved black truffles into the dish and try it with a 20-year-old vintage rosé Champagne for a superb – yet fairly pricey – match.

Rosé Champagnes to try for Valentine’s Day

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Lake Michigan, the fifth largest lake in the world, is an integral part of quality grape growing in the state. The Michigan coastline is extensive and full of peninsulas formed thousands of years ago due to glaciation. Arctic glaciers pushed south during the ice ages and carved out the major Great Lakes basin. The lake accumulates heat during the growing season and retains it through the autumn when temperatures drop, thus extending the growing season and giving the ‘lake effect’ necessary to produce quality wine.

‘Our vineyards hug the shores of one of the largest freshwater inland seas in the world, in a land once carved out by glaciers – and this unique terroir creates some real magic in any bottle of Michigan wine,’ says Patrick Brys, president & CEO of Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery.

Riesling: Michigan’s great grape

The latest figures show that Riesling is the most widely planted vinifera grape in Michigan, with 29% of plantings. Over 930ha of vinifera grapes are grown in the state, 270 of them Riesling.

Considered one of the great white grapes of the world, Riesling is lauded by experts for its purity and versatility. Despite this, many consumers believe that all Riesling is sweet, when in fact, the grape can be vinified from a bone-dry wine to the stickiest botrytised style. Riesling is known for its prominent aromatics and high acidity. The naturally high acidity from the grape can be balanced with residual sugar, usually from a halted fermentation. Alcohol levels are generally low, sometimes even in the single digits.

The best regions for Michigan Riesling

For quality grape-growing regions in Michigan, we look to Traverse Wine Coast and Lake Michigan Shore, located in the northwest and southwest corners of the state, respectively. Michigan, shaped like a mitten (or mitt) has 5,200 kilometres of the nation’s largest freshwater coastlines. ‘We have a range of Riesling styles in Michigan. Including more commonly recognised late harvest or sweeter Rieslings, but also dry in style and similar to the highest class Trocken and Alsatian producers,’ says Emily Dockery, executive director of the Michigan Wine Collaborative.

Home to nearly 40 wineries, the Traverse Wine Coast in the north includes two peninsulas moderated by the massive waters of Lake Michigan. The Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsula wine trails both provide optimal expressions of winemaking. They showcase the influence of the lake with very fruit-forward wines. These two peninsulas, north on either side of Traverse City, are responsible for 55% of the state’s production.

In the southwest corner of the state, with 130km of coastline is the Lake Michigan Shore AVA. With 15 winery members, it accounts for approximately 40% of the state’s production. This region is home to the oldest and longest-running winery in the state, St. Julian, founded in 1921. The area is slightly warmer than in the north, giving it an extra two to three weeks for the growing season.

Says Adam McBride, president of the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail and owner/winemaker at Hickory Creek Winery: ‘While refreshing acidity is constant across Michigan Rieslings, the wines in the Lake Michigan Shore seem to have a bit more texture and deeper fruit notes. We’re getting more peach, pear, apple and orange phenolics here compared to lighter citrus like lemon and lime in the northern AVAs.’

How Michigan Riesling tastes

The cool-climate wines wines of Michigan have a strong backbone of acidity and fruit-forward aromas and flavours, specifically with Riesling. As is common with the variety, it is vinified from dry to sweet, including botrytised and ice wine styles. McBride says: ‘The constant characteristics across Michigan Rieslings are bright acidity, lower alcohol and aromatic stone fruit and citrus notes. Michigan Rieslings are refreshing, easy to drink and meant to be paired with food.’

Pairing Riesling with food

With the proximity of Lake Michigan, local freshwater fish is a plentiful and a natural pairing with Michigan Riesling. Simple grilled fish from the lake, including salmon and trout, works well with a dry Riesling with a small hint of residual sugar. For a more flavour-packed fish dish such as honey garlic salmon, an off-dry Riesling gives a nice interplay of sweetness and acidity to cut through the sweetness of the sauce.

The most common pairing with Riesling is any mention of ‘spicy Asian food’. More specifically, the high acidity and slight residual sugar in a Michigan Riesling can counteract and balance the spice from dishes such as gochujang noodles, Thai coconut curry, or a spicier curry vindaloo.

Cherries, as an agricultural crop, reign in Michigan. It is the number one state for cherry production in the country. Spiced cherry chutney over roasted pork tenderloin pairs well with a dry Michigan Riesling. On the sweeter side of things, a sweet Riesling or ice wine paired with a fresh-baked cherry cobbler shows how the tartness in the cherries plus the acidity in the Riesling can match each other.

Best Michigan Rieslings to try

This selection of bottles covers the styles and regions mentioned above. In general, the Rieslings from Michigan are affordable and approachable.

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Supermarket own-label wines feature frequently in Decanter’s recommendations and reviews, because they provide notable consistency and value for money.

While it is difficult to make great Champagne cheaply – it is a labour-intensive process, after all – there are still gems to be found on supermarket shelves under their own-label brands.

If you’re looking for recognisable names, the grandes marques can of course also be found in supermarkets.

Scroll down to see the top value UK supermarket Champagne to seek out

There are are also impressive Champagne alternatives in supermarkets that go beyond Prosecco, such as Crémant de Bourgogne and English Sparkling. Find the Decanter team’s recommendations here.

Looking for bubbles and feeling adventurous? Check out these 15 offbeat sparkling wines

The UK remains one of the strongest export markets for Champagne, only second behind the US, with 28,061,766 bottles exported to the UK in 2022.

The selection below lists Champagnes from most of the key UK supermarkets, including Aldi, Booths, Co-op, Lidl, Marks & Spencer, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Waitrose.

Champagne styles

There are a number of factors which influence the style of Champagne, including grapes, vintage, colour and sweetness.

The majority of the supermarket Champagne in the list below is non-vintage, with a few vintage examples.

Blanc de Blancs Champagnes offer the pure, citrus character of Chardonnay, whereas Blanc de Noirs offers a richer, red-fruited character, like Waitrose own Blanc de Noirs Brut made from 100% Pinot Noir.

Prepared to splash out this Christmas? See the Best vintage and non-vintage Champagnes to try

The best supermarket Champagne to try:

The wines below have been tasted and rated by the Decanter editorial team, and are ordered by colour and score.

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Waitrose 10 Fine Wines at £10: tasted and rated

Best Sherries: top bottles to try

There are plenty of sparkling choices if you’re selecting bubbles for the festive season. From Champagne, Crémant and Prosecco to English sparkling wines. But there’s only one type of fizz that combines signature Spanish style with quality and value.

Cava, Spain’s flagship sparkler, offers something for everyone. World-class gran reservas and vintage wines will please fine wine lovers. Meanwhile great-value non-vintage bottles are ideal for bargain-hunters. Many UK retailers offer great value own-label options too.

What’s more, with its own trio of grape varieties, Cava has a gastronomic character that makes it an ideal choice for Christmas meals. Serve it as an aperitif or pair it with a variety of dishes (see below).

How is Cava made?

For a sparkling wine to be classified as Cava it must be made using the traditional method (also known as méthode Champenoise). In this process the second fermentation happens in the bottle.

Cavas must also be made within specific areas approved for Cava DO (Denominación de Origen) production. Unlike other DOs, however, the defined area for Cava production is not contiguous. While most Cava is produced in Catalunya – with the village of Sant Sadurní d’Anoia as its epicentre – it can also be made in other Spanish provinces. These include Aragón, Euskadi, Extremadura, La Rioja, Navarra and València.

Rather than origin, what truly differentiates Cava from other Spanish sparkling wines is production method and regulations.

This scattered geography has caused intense debate within the Cava DO itself in the past. Some producers opposed a system that, in their opinion, should focus more on terroir. As a result some famous names, such as Raventós i Blanc, chose to leave the DO and lobby for region-specific classification. Similarly the Corpinnat group from Penedés is now making wines under a new quality label.

Others chose to push for change from inside the DO, which resulted in a new classification introduced in 2017: Cava de Paraje Calificado. Cava’s top classification, this is for single-vineyard Cava from an exceptional vineyard. To qualify, vines must be at least 10 years old, with lower yields. All wines must be brut, extra brut or brut nature, and bottle-aged on the lees for at least 36 months.

There is also a requirement for full traceability, which means all Cava de Paraje Calificado vineyards must be owned by the winery or contracted on a long-term basis. If all of these criteria are met, the Cava is tasted blind by a panel of independent wine judges and experts. Finally winemakers have to explain to the judging panel what makes their vineyard a unique terroir.

Which grapes are used to make Cava?

Another key part of Cava’s identity is grape varieties. Most renowned traditional-method production areas focus on the Champagne trio: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier. However Cava has its own flagship varieties, which impart distinctive aromatic and textural characters.

While Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are also permitted in the Cava DO, the traditional and most commonly used varieties are:

• Macabeu (also called Macabeo or Viura) – Widely grown across Spain as well as in the French Roussillon. Although relatively neutral in flavour, it plays an important role in blends by adding body and texture.
• Xarel·lo – The grape largely responsible for the trademark herbal perfume of the best Cavas. In addition to lime blossom and hay-like aromas it adds acidity and earthiness to blends, therefore being essential to the age-worthiness of top quality Cavas.
• Parellada – Grown almost exclusively in Catalunya, Parellada contributes with fruit aromas, especially green apple and citrus notes. There are single-varietal examples of Cava that use just one of the above, but blends are by far the most common, making the most of the characters imparted by each variety.

For Cava rosado (rosé), Garnacha, Pinot Noir, Mataró (Mourvèdre) and the local Trepat are the most commonly used red grapes. They are often blended with at least one of the flagship whites.

Malvasía, known locally as Subirat Parent, is increasingly used to make Cava dulce (sweet) and semi-dulce (semi-sweet).

Is Cava good value for money? 

It’s true that Cava delivers great value: you can pick up reliably good bottles for under £10. But it’s worth investing a bit more money to explore some of the higher quality Cavas. Reserva, gran reserva and Cava de Paraje Calificado (single-vineyard wines) are well worth seeking out.

The fact that Cava is often dismissed in favour of its traditional method sparkling counterparts, especially Champagne, means that great wines are unfairly overlooked. Wine lovers are missing an opportunity to discover a different, specific expression of fizz, produced by very talented winemakers. It’s worth exploring the top Cava producers. All of them make wines with outstanding ageability.

On the flip side, Cava has been somewhat immune to the branding and pricing games which have inflated prices elsewhere. Wine lovers can benefit from a great value-for-money option, across tiers, quality levels and price points. So if you’re looking for a great fizz for the festive season consider Cava; but look at the top, not the lower shelf!

What can you pair Cava with?

Because it’s generally quite dry, with most wines falling in the brut category, Cava is particularly versatile when it comes to food pairing.

It makes a wonderful festive aperitif, no doubt. But try it with a selection of canapés, buttered lobster or a chocolate-based dessert and you won’t be disappointed.

Extra-brut and brut styles of the traditional white blends go well with meat- and fish-based recipes. Rosados will pair better with dairy and/or rich sauces. They’re a good alternative if you are having a vegetarian or vegan Christmas banquet.

If your festive table features more exotic flavours, try pairing Cava semi-dulce with Asian-inspired dishes. It’s also a surprisingly good match for your Christmas cheese selection.

Whichever style you try, here are a few suggestions to get you started…

Top Cavas for Christmas

Recommendations by Decanter’s editorial team.

Wines ordered by score, in descending order. 

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In my opinion Sherry is the single-most underrated style of wine from Spain. Even among wine lovers it suffers from misconceptions about taste (‘It’s too sweet!’), how to serve it (‘In a tiny glass from your granny’s cupboard?’) and strength (‘It’s fortified: is it as strong as a spirit?’).

But as any Sherry aficionado will tell you, this style of wine is as nuanced, enjoyable and complex as any fine wine from Spain. In fact it isn’t even a single style – but we’ll come to that later…

Sherry comes from Southern Spain, in the so-called ‘Golden Triangle’ of vineyards that lie between the towns of Jerez, Sanlúcar de Barrameda and El Puerto de Santa María. Sherries are fortified wines, meaning that a small amount of grape spirit (brandy) is added to them, after fermentation, to give them greater longevity and stability.

What is Sherry?

Sherry is an aged white wine that’s matured by being passed through a series of 600-litre barrels, in a system known as a solera. The solera system allows for fractional blending of the wines. The barrels in a solera are arranged in different tiers or groups, called criaderas, according to their age.

The oldest criadera holds wines that are ready to be bottled. When wine is removed from a barrel for bottling, that barrel will then be topped up with an equal amount of wine from the first criadera, which holds the youngest wines.

The first criadera will be topped up from the second criadera; the second from the third; and so on. This means that any Sherry will be a blend from different years.

Where you see an age statement on a label, such as 40 years, this will be an approximate average age. The blend will certainly contain wines much older than 40 years, but also some younger.

The Sherry styles

There are two broad styles of Sherry. The first is known as ‘biological’ and refers to wines that are aged under a thick layer of yeasts, called the flor. This flor prevents the wine from being exposed to oxygen. But it also interacts with the wine, eating sugars and other chemical compounds, and producing acetaldehydes, which give Sherry its distinctive ripe apple aroma.

The second broad style of Sherry is ‘oxidative’. These wines are aged without their layer of flor, so in contact with oxygen. Oxidative ageing gives Sherries a deeper colour and a complex nutty character.

Within these two broad types, the Sherry category is then broken down further into distinctive styles, depending on the exact method of ageing.

Six Sherry styles to know

Fino is made from the white Palomino grape (see above) and fortified soon after fermentation to 15% abv. It is then aged under flor in a solera, for a minimum of two years. The resulting style of Sherry is fresh, pungently aromatic and very dry.

Manzanilla is initially made in the same way as fino. The difference is that it has to be aged in a solera in Sanlúcar de Barrameda. Here the humid sea air encourages a denser layer of flor. Similar in taste profile to a fino though the sea adds a salty character to this delicate wine.

Amontillado starts life as a fino before undergoing further ageing without its protective layer of flor. For some Sherry lovers Amontillado offers the best of both worlds, combining the freshness of fino with more evolved textural, nutty and creamy notes.

Oloroso Full is is aged oxidatively (without its blanket of flor) producing a Sherry that’s full-bodied, relatively high in alcohol and packed with flavours. Olorosos are dry and savoury, but they can seem to show a hint of sweetness thanks to the ageing process.

Palo Cortado is one of the rarest Sherry styles, which is a product of natural deficiencies in the flor layer. Traditionally it begins life as a fino, but casks that fail to develop a complete covering of flor are fortified to 17-18% abv, then aged oxidatively like an oloroso. In style, palo cortado combines amontillado’s aromatics with the fuller structure of an oloroso. The results can be buttery and nutty, with a full body, dried fruits and a tang of salinity.

Pedro Ximénez or PX, as it’s also known, is an indulgently sweet dessert wine. Thick, luscious and syrupy, with flavours of Christmas pudding, it’s an after-dinner treat to be paired with chocolate, coffee or cheese. Or simply pour it over ice cream for a decadent dessert.

How to store Sherry

When a Sherry is bottled, it’s ready to drink. But it can be kept for future consumption. Fino and manzanilla can be kept in a sealed bottle for up to 18 months after purchase. Amontillado, oloroso and palo cortado for up to 36 months. And PX for up to two years.

Like other wines, unopened bottles of Sherry should be stored in a cool, dry, dark place. But unlike other wines they should be stored upright in order to minimise oxidation via contact with the cork.

Once you have opened a bottle of Sherry, it will keep for longer than a bottle of regular wine because it’s been fortified with spirit. But as with any wine, it will start to deteriorate once it has been opened, so reseal the bottle and keep it in the fridge.

Opened bottles of fino and manzanilla will keep in the fridge for a week. Amontillado and palo cortado for up to three weeks. Oloroso will last for up to six weeks. And PX for up to two months.

How to serve Sherry

Always serve Sherry chilled. Enjoy fino and manzanilla at 5-7°C. Amontillado, oloroso and palo cortado should be served at 12-14°C and PX at 14°C .

Finally, Sherry is a white wine, so serve it in a wine glass – particularly if you are drinking it with food. In fact Sherry is one of the most food-friendly wines out there, as well as being a great aperitif (fino and manzanilla) or dessert wine (PX).

Best Sherries to try

This selection of bottles covers the six styles mentioned above, with Sherries to suit every palate and pocket. Discover top-scoring expressions from leading producers such as Bodegas Barbadillo, Lustau and Hidalgo. Alongside some great value own-label bottles from supermarkets and specialist merchants, with prices starting from as little as £4.99 for Aldi’s Specially Selected Pedro Ximénez. Proof that Sherry is brilliant value for money!

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It’s no secret that when it comes to finding quality wines with complexity and character at affordable price points, Languedoc is ripe for the picking.

Value isn’t its only calling card, but it is one of the main reasons Languedoc remains so exciting – you can discover new wine styles and experiment with grape varieties you’ve never tried before all without breaking the bank.

Scroll down to see tasting notes and scores for the 10 best value picks from the Languedoc report 2023

See the Languedoc report 2023 homepage

Individual appellation analysis:

Limoux | Corbières & Minervois | La Clape | St-Chinian | Faugères | Picpoul de Pinet | Terrasses du Larzac | Pic St Loup

Here is a breakdown of the top five value wines from each appellation from the Languedoc report 2023.

If any of the following wines are available to buy at retail in the UK, this has been indicated in the wine’s tasting note and most are £20 or less. Of those that are not available in the UK, I have selected wines that retail in France at €15 or less, except for appellations such as Pic St Loup and Terrasses du Larzac, where the wines representing the best score to price value have been selected.

Limoux

Clos Teisseire, Vue Sur Ciel, Haute Vallée de l’Aude 2022 – 92 points

Domaine Rosier, Cuvée Ma Maison, Blanquette de Limoux 2021 – 91 points

Domaine J Laurens Clos des Demoiselles Brut Crémant de Limoux 2021 – 90 points

Domaine Begude, L’Etoile, Limoux 2022 – 92 points

Plô Roucarels, La Petite Rive, Haute Vallée de l’Aude 2022 – 90 points

Corbières & Minervois

Domaine Py, Troisième Cuvée, Corbieres 2022 – 91 points

Château Beauregard Mirouze, Campana, Corbières 2022 – 90 points

Clos de L’Anhel, Le Lolo de L’Anhel, Corbières 2022 – 92 points

Domaine Combe Blanche, La Chandelière, Minervois La Livinière 2020 – 93 points

Château Maris, La Touge, Minervois La Livinière 2020 – 94 points

Picpoul de Pinet

Château Petit Roubié, L’O Sur Lie Patience, Picpoul de Pinet 2022– 92 points

Château Petit Roubié, Picpoul de Pinet 2022 – 92 points

Domaine Belle Mare, Classique, Picpoul de Pinet 2022 – 92 points

Font-Mars, Picpoul de Pinet 2022 – 92 points

Domaine Félines-Jourdan, Picpoul de Pinet 2022 – 91 points

St-Chinian

Domaine La Linquière, Fleur de Lin, St-Chinian 2021 – 93 points

Les Vignobles Foncalieu, Petit Paradis, St-Chinian 2022 – 88 points

Cave de Roquebrun, Les Fiefs d’Aupenac, St-Chinian 2020 – 93 points

Clos la Rivière, St-Chinian 2019 – 93 points

Clos Bagatelle, Sentiers de Bagatelle, Colline, St-Chinian 2020 – 90 points

Faugères

Domaine Ollier-Taillefer, Allegro, Faugères 2022 – 93 points

Mas Olivier, Blanc, Faugères 2022 – 90 points

Domaine de Cébène, Ex Arena, Faugères 2022 – 93 points

Château Chênaie, Conviction, Faugères 2021 – 93 points

Mas Olivier, Sélection, Faugères 2020 – 92 points

Terrasses du Larzac

Domaine Plan de l’Homme, Cuvée Khi, Terrasses du Larzac 2020 – 93 points

Mas de Cap Daniel, Les Cormiers, Terrasses du Larzac 2021 – 91 points

Castelbarry, Les Raisins d’Y Croire, Terrasses du Larzac 2019 – 90 points

Château de Jonquieres, Lansade, Terrasses du Larzac 2021 – 90 points

Mas d’Amile, Le Petitou, Terrasses du Larzac 2021 – 90 points

Pic St Loup

Château de Lascaux, Carra Rosé, Pic St-Loup 2022 – 93 points

Château de Lancyre, Vieilles Vignes, Pic St-Loup 2020 – 93 points

Le Chemin des Rêves, L’Optimiste, Pic St-Loup 2021 – 93 points

Château de Cazeneuve, Les Calcaires, Pic St-Loup 2021 – 92 points

Domaine de Villeneuve, La Muse, Pic St-Loup 2021– 92 points

La Clape

Château Rouquette sur Mer Cuvée Arpege – 92 points

Château La Negly La Brise Marine – 92 points

Cave La Clape L’Empreinte – 90 points

Sarrat de Goundy, Le Moulin 2021 – 90 points

Château Combe des Ducs, Pierres de Mer 2021 – 90 points

See the Languedoc latest releases score tables:

All top-scoring wines

All top-scoring white wines

All top-scoring red wines

Individual appellation analyis:

Limoux | Corbières & Minervois | La Clape | St-Chinian | Faugères | Picpoul de Pinet | Terrasses du Larzac | Pic St Loup

The 10 best value picks from the Languedoc report 2023:

The wines below are listed by style then score.

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Online wine retailer Naked Wines has made significant steps in improving and developing its range over the last few years. Buying director Matt Smith and wine director Ray O’Connor MW have continued to plug what they saw as key gaps in the range across various classical regions, as they now look to introduce a broader set of wine styles to fulfil the tastes of new consumers.

The company uses a crowd-funding business model to fund production costs for winemakers across the world, providing its members, dubbed ‘Angels’, with exclusively made wine directly from its producers.

Scroll down for the top 30 buys from Naked Wines this autumn

Reports of slowing sales and £15m loss

Despite an increase in revenue and subscriber numbers during the pandemic (which shot from 260,000 to 350,000 in the UK), current UK membership numbers now sit around 300,000.

‘We haven’t been aggressively acquiring new customers recently,’ said Smith, ‘we’ve been focusing on providing an excellent experience to our members. Driving innovation, finding quality wines and spirits, broadening the range to a degree, plugging some gaps, and keeping things really interesting [for members].’

The delayed release of the company’s results for the financial year up to April 2023, published on 19 September 2023, shows a £15m loss, despite total sales being up 1% year on year.

The results also show that the company has had a ‘slower than expected’ start to the new trading year, and share prices have dropped significantly.

Founder and former CEO Rowan Gormley, who stepped down at the start of 2020, returned in July 2023 as the company’s new chairman. In a letter to shareholders, he said that trading conditions are tough. ‘High inflation, higher taxes on alcohol and falling disposable incomes has put pressure on sales and costs,’ he said.

Unavoidable price increases

Despite the company absorbing costs amid rising inflation and increases across the supply chain, the latest UK duty rise has not left the company unscathed.

‘We’ve tried to offset as much as possible, but when the new duty came in [in August 2023] – there’s nothing you can do,’ said O’Connor, ‘it’s a new landscape’.

Retail prices per bottle have therefore had to increase, which is being seen widely across the sector.

Tasting the range

Despite these price rises, there are still many wines to be found that offer excellent value for money.

Over the last year Naked Wines has ‘made good progress in filling in gaps in the range,’ said Smith, bringing in 19 new Bordeaux wines, as well as classical styles from the northern Rhône and Alsace.

The retailer has long been strong in wines from eastern Europe, and O’Connor said ‘Angels ask us a lot for wines from Croatia’. Check out the Malvazija Istarska from Kabola, the retailer’s new producer from the Istria region.

Highlighting under-the-radar regions is one of Naked Wines’ calling cards, and it has brought in two delicious new wines from the Custoza appellation within Italy’s Veneto region. For under £20, the Tenuta Monte Fitti Custoza Superiore has upfront aromas of ripe fleshy peach, apricot kernel, marzipan and preserved lemon and is easy to drink, succulent and lip smacking. Or for a little more money the Monte del Frà Sexaginta Custoza Superiore offers a whole other level of power and luxury, showing a real Burgundian elegance and refinement.

Chile has fared particularly well in the recommendations below, with one white and two reds to seek out. ‘It’s Chile but not as you know it,’ said O’Connor, and he’s right; all three showcase single grape varieties and are excellent value, with a lot of complexity and concentration on show.

The Green Grape logo

This year Naked Wines launched its Green Grape logo. ‘By working closely with winemakers we’ve reviewed how they have been trying to minimise their impact right from grape to glass,’ said Luke Landers, the company’s senior sustainability manager.

Of the 600 wines in its range, more than 100 have been awarded the new logo. ‘We plan to continue to develop the framework and reflect best practice as the green agenda moves forward in wine,’ said Landers.

The company has made some headline-grabbing environmental commitments, for example saving 500 tonnes of glass in 2022, and as of summer 2023 it has lightweighted 6.5 million bottles in an effort to cut its carbon emissions.

The company has also recently announced that it is making a growing number of its wines capsule-less, removing the plastic or foil capsule from 11 of its wines to date, which should be up to 17 by the end of March next year.

‘More than a quarter of a million bottles will be capsule-less – that’ll help us avoid more than 230kg of unnecessary packaging,’ said Landers.

Decanter Retailer Awards: Runner Up

It has been announced today that Naked Wines is the runner up in the Best Large Online Retailer category at the Decanter Retailer Awards 2023.

See more about the Decanter Retailer Awards here.

Pricing structure

Naked Wines displays both a member price and a non-member price for most wines on its website. All wines are benchmarked and tasted blind against similar wines available on the UK market. The non-member price is therefore determined by the retail price of these comparable wines – what Naked deems the market price.

This can range from anywhere between 0% and 60% more than the Angel’s price, depending on what comparable wines they have been benchmarked against. Some wines on the site are ‘Angel exclusives’ and can only be purchased as a member.

Being a member also provides a platform for customers to engage and converse directly with the winemakers themselves. Through its online wine community, members rate wines and interact with winemakers, and their feedback ultimately decides whether Naked continues to sell the wines.

See tasting notes and scores for 30 top finds from Naked Wines:

The selection below includes both member-exclusive wines and wines available to non-members. Where the wine is exclusive to members, this has been indicated in the tasting note.

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‘Everyone deserves a perfect partner, as a nice bottle of wine deserves the right glass,’ says Marcello Neri, head sommelier of Kensington’s Launceston Place restaurant. However, unlike spectacles, where one pair ordinarily suffices to bring a multitude of subjects into sharper view, humanity has managed to further complicate the subject of wine by designing a dizzying array of glasses to enhance it, whether they flatter specific varietals, styles or bottles at a particular stage of maturity.

In this guide, you will find such specialised tools as well as, for those on a budget, with limited storage, or incurable indecision, excellent one size fits all options. However, common to every glass included is the tapering, tulip shaped nature of the generously proportioned bowl which, true wine lovers unite on, helps build and nurture aromas and, when swirled, keeps the liquid within from spilling out.

Such a form also applies too to glasses for sparkling wines. As Nick Baker, founder of merchant, The Finest Bubble, advises, ‘remember, the Champagne flute can be beautiful if you want to watch bubbles, but it is hopeless if you want to enjoy the aromatics hence we recommend people throw them away!’ Stephen Duckett, co-founder of England’s Hundred Hills sparkling wine estate agrees. ‘Designed to mask poor quality Champagnes, flutes were never expected to become ubiquitous, but cheap Champagnes and Prosecco accelerated the need for them in modern times.’

And best, too, to avoid the saucer-shaped coupes. These, say Charles Goemaere, executive director of Comité Champagne, were popular in the 1920s for their stable base when carried on trays. ‘However, their shape rapidly dissipates Champagne bubbles.’

Best luxury all-rounder for sparkling wines:

Lehmann Grand Champagne Mouth-Blown Ultralight ((£94 for two, The Finest Bubble)

Both the shapely Lehmann Grand Champagne and subsequent Synergie are informed by self-described ‘oenoconsultant’, Philippe Jamesse, a sommelier in Champagne for 30 years. Of the Grand Champagne, while its machine-made counterpart is ‘okay’ says Nick Baker, the mouth-blown version, which takes a minimum of six master glassmakers to manufacture one item, is ‘exquisite’. These ‘offer a lightness and delicacy without being too fragile.’ The Grand Champagne’s chief attribute: to bring forward the reductive elements in a sparkling wine and help suppress oxidation.

Best for prestige sparkling rosé and saignée:

Lehmann Jamesse Synergie 60cl Mouth-Blown Ultralight (£88 for two, The Finest Bubble)

‘There is rarely much to be gained going any larger, though prestige cuvée rose will nearly always benefit from a larger bowl,’ notes Baker, as seen in these more Burgundy-shaped glasses which coax forth red fruit, including those from the rarer, redder saignée style of fizz.

Best affordable all-rounder for sparkling wines:

Riedel Veritas (£43.95 for two, The Riedel Shop)

According to chairman of the Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships, Tom Stevenson, the machine-made Riedel Veritas is a vessel which adeptly assists in ‘swirling, nosing and assessing’ hence its use in the competition. It also happens to be the ‘go-to fizz glass’ for Riedel’s MD, Stephen McGraw when he is enjoying English sparkling wines at home.

Best for younger whites:

NUDE Stem Zero Master (£49 apiece, Nunido)

At once wafer-thin and lightweight, this Turkish designed, handmade glass brings the drinker in closer contact with the liquid. It is debatably less showy than a Zalto Universal and remarkably tougher than its looks suggest thanks to the ‘Ion Shielding Technology’ deployed in which, according to the manufacturer, ‘larger ions replace smaller ions in the glass surface, suppressing the micro-fissures that cause glass to crack.’

Best for more developed whites:

NUDE Stem Zero Full Bodied White Wine (£48 apiece, Bonbinate)

With a broad diameter of 125mm, this large but lightweight, again, handmade glass encourages the wine to interact with the air while notes of oak and the backbone of acidity, are simultaneously nursed.

Best all-rounder:

Jancis Robinson x Richard Brendon (£90 for two, The Finest Bubble)

A graduate of Kingston School of Art, Richard Brendon often looks to the past, as per his ‘1650’ collection of just 24 seal impressed decanters crafted by classical British glassblower, Simon Moore. In contrast, his collaboration with Master of Wine, Jancis Robinson OBE is much more contemporary. Conveniently intended to degust every style of wine imaginable, their wine glass holds one sixth of a bottle at its widest point, tapering to an undistracting, thin rim. For Bastille Day, the English-designed collection, which is handmade in Slovenia, will be filled with sparkling wine from Stephen Duckett’s aforementioned English estate, Hundred Hills of Henley, as the toast to strengthen an Anglo-French entente at Raymond Blanc OBE’s Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons.

Best for younger reds:

NUDE Ghost Zero Belly (€98 apiece, NUDE)

Our third entry from NUDE is the most visually striking so far, evoking in shape the Mr. Greedy protagonist immortalised by children’s author, Roger Hargreaves. The voluptuous, handmade Ghost Zero Belly captures the wine in its ‘belly’ and then vigorously funnels the ensuing aromas along the chimney. Tactile, it is also a good glass to ‘hug’ to bring cool wines to a warmer temperature, if required.

Best for more developed reds:

L’Esthete (£237 per six, Wineware)

Antoine Schvartz founded the Sydonios company ‘from a piece of paper’ five years ago. ‘We started with one year of scientific research involving more than 100 wine professionals, reading all the papers written on the impact glass has on wine tasting, meeting the best winemakers from each French appellation.’ The resulting handmade L’Esthète glass, which sleekly tames tannins in young wine and coaxes nuances from older renditions without exposing the wine to a shocking amount of air, is now used by ‘around 80% of the Grand Cru Classes in Bordeaux,’ says Schvartz. While these are currently mouth-blown in Bohemia, Schvartz is due to open a factory in France later this year. Resourcefully, he intends to release ‘the Unperfect glass’ in September, ‘which has a bubble or more at a discount of around 35%.’

Best varietal specific glass:

Riedel Winewings Pinot Noir/Nebbiolo (£29 apiece, Riedel)

Although arguably the least visually appealing entry in this guide given its vast, wobbly helmet-like look, our second entry from Riedel comes from the machine-made Winewings range. This is so-called after the way the broad base of its bowl extends like an aircraft’s wings. The Pinot Noir/Nebbiolo glass however positively transforms the sometimes-shy Pinot Noir or Nebbiolo, especially when the latter is youthfully tannic.

Best for sheer luxury:

Lalique 100 Points Burgundy (£140 apiece, Lalique)

‘Once a customer has used a Lalique wine glass, they always come back and buy into the wider collection,’ says Frederick Fischer, Managing Director of Lalique UK. The 100 points collection was designed in collaboration with the wine personality, James Suckling, and takes pride of place at the freshly Michelin-starred Lalique restaurant at Scotland’s Glenturret distillery. Lalique creative director, Marc Larminaux says it can take as many as 20 workers five days to perfect each glass. While the 100 points collection runs to 15 designs, characterised by a tactile, frosted, pillar-like stem, I particularly rate the Burgundy glass which lifts Syrah as well its raison d’être, Pinot Noir.

Best for value:

Villeroy & Boch Manufacture Rock (41.52 for four, Dawsons Department Store)

At around £10 per glass if you shop carefully, this machine-made range is designed to dovetail with a corresponding matt finish porcelain range which evokes slate in its look. The white wine version is a good all-rounder for still wines, and has an interesting, gently diffusing black stem leading to an ample bowl.

Best for city dwellers:

Waterford Elegance Stemless (£65 for two, Waterford)

Ireland based Waterford is today owned by Finland’s oldest company, Fiskars (1649), which is famous for its sturdy, practical, orange handled scissors. Also rational in design are these hand-made stemless glasses made to a new crystal formula, which feel generations away from Waterford’s much imitated, deeply etched Lismore design. At only 11 centimetres high, these stemless glasses are easy to store in the tightest of cupboards, while the dimple in the base provides a grip point and aesthetically evokes the punt of a wine bottle. Despite their apparent informality, the Slovenian crystal brings a sense of occasion to a daily pour.

Best for blind tasting:

Spiegelau Authentis Blind Tasting (£71.40 for four, RoyalDesign)

Now owned by Riedel, Germany’s Spiegelau brand dates to at least 1521. Sprayed black to dramatic effect, these shiny, machine-made glasses are intended to wholly strip a wine of its visual cues. The results can be humbling if it transpires a so-called professional cannot tell their Riesling from a rosé.

Best for sweet wines:

Rochini Oekks Digestif (€216 per six, Rochini)

This precise, tall, hand-made glass, which works for sweeter styles of wine, including the full canon of sherry, is part of a range of ‘feather-light hand-blown eye-catchers’ according to Austrian designer, Hannes Tiefenthaler. All glasses in the core range adhere to a harmonious height. ‘Every glass has the same height leading to a well-balanced feeling on the table,’ adds Tiefenthaler. Quirkily and effectively, at Farringdon’s classy Persian restaurant, The Drunken Butler, owner, Yuma Hashemi delights in serving his signature antique Negronis, free from ice, in these glasses.

Best for a picnic:

YETI Rambler wine tumbler (£25 apiece, Yeti)

Adhering to their motto, ‘built for the wild’, the Texas based outdoor living specialist, YETI, has created a strong, puncture and rust resistant, machine-made stainless-steel vessel for wine with an optional lid. And being double wall insulated, no condensation will form, even if you like your juice as cool as these revolutionary vials look.

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Port will be celebrated across the world on 10th September. National Port Day offers the perfect opportunity to explore the many styles of this famous fortified wine.

In his guide to Port styles Richard Mayson explains that there is a Port for all occasions, if you know what you’re looking for. ‘Often thought of as an after-dinner, fireside drink, Port can be enjoyed in multiple ways depending on the character of the wine,’ he says.

Scroll down to discover 12 top-scoring Ports reviewed by Decanter’s team of experts

Take a look at his ‘Know your Port styles – The Decanter guide’ for a formidable look at the Port pyramid, which explains each different style from white Port (often served with tonic water to make an alternative version of a gin & tonic) through to vintage Port and everything in between. It will point you to the right Port for any occasion, winter or summer.

All Port comes from Portugal’s Douro Valley, which is one of the oldest regulated wine regions in the world, with demarcation dating back to 1756. Given the myriad grape varieties native to Portugal more than 100 different varieties are permitted in port production, but in reality just a handful are used.

For red Ports Touriga Nacional, Tinta Barroca, Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), Tinto Cão and Touriga Francesa are the key varieties, while for white Ports, Viosinho, Malvasia Fina, Códega and Rabigato are the most common.

Whatever style you prefer, make sure you enjoy a glass on National Port Day.

To get you in the mood, here’s a selection of recently reviewed Ports.

12 top Ports to try on National Port Day

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While different wine styles and market shares seem to have waxed and waned over the last few tumultuous years, no wine save sparkling has shown the resilience of rosé. From New York State to California, there are pink wines for every palate. While often cast as ‘porch pounders’, the level of rosé’s sophistication has risen over the last few years to make it well-suited for more refined meals and summer barbecues and, in a few cases, even worthy of ageing.

Scroll down to see notes and scores for 20 US rosé wines

A decade in pink

Rosé has had quite the decade. A global trend, not merely confined to Provence or the Instagram-savvy influencers of Brooklyn or Portland, Oregon, rosé has ruled and for quite some time. The high watermark for rosé tends to be seasonal, with sales increasing in the warmer months, and as a planet, we’re nothing if not warmer. Celebrities have launched their own rosé brands, from John Bon Jovi to Sarah Jessica Parker, and perhaps most famously, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie’s Miraval brand.

Pink wines have never been cooler, particularly as temperatures rise, and their market share and production growth have both been astronomical. No one makes or sells more rosé than the French of course. In a report from beverage industry data company Provi, the presence of Provence rosé in the US market increased by 7,100% (that is not a typo) from 2001 to 2016.

The sales of rosé have bucked all the wine trends in both still and sparkling categories. While younger generations may be turned off by some wines and are choosing alcoholic seltzer, they have not turned their backs on rosé. According to Provi, three of the top five wine growth categories are comprised of rosé.

Myriad styles

Stylistically, Americans have settled on dry rosé in the style of the wines of Provence after a long love affair with the sickly sweet White Zinfandel. However, style can vary within that range. Depending on how the wines are produced, they can appeal to a variety of drinkers. How a particular rosé is made will affect the texture, colour and the finished wine.

The three main methods of producing rosé wine are to make it via direct press, saignée, and – in a few cases – blending of red and white wines.

When rosé is made in the direct press method, red grapes are picked and crushed. The grape skins remain in contact with the juice until the desired level of colour is achieved. The grapes are typically harvested specifically to make rosé when made in this way.

The saignée method is a type of short maceration and the wine is actually a bi-product of red wine production. This involves bleeding a portion of pink-coloured juice out of a tank destined to make red wine. The juice has not been in contact with the grape skins for very long. It is typically very lightly coloured, depending on the grape variety and the desired hue of the finished rosé. In many cases, the remaining wine will go on to be made into red wine, though not necessarily always.

Sometimes rosés may use a small amount of red wine blended into a white wine. This approach is seen as non-traditional and more of a shortcut than a winemaking technique. Note that this method is not allowed in the majority of EU appellations (rosé Champagne is an important exception).

Below, find an array of rosés to choose from for all budgets.

20 US rosés to beat the heat

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