From the First Toast to the Last Slice: Christmas Wines from The Wine Cellar

There’s a moment when Christmas dinner finally comes together. The roast is resting, someone has found the extra chairs, and the kitchen smells of herbs, butter and something deliciously crisp around the edges.

Then comes the familiar question: “What shall we open?”

At The Wine Cellar, we think the best Christmas wines earn their place by bringing pleasure to the table. They might be a favourite bottle everyone recognises, a new discovery to share, or something special you’ve been saving. Here are five picks from our range to see you through this year’s celebrations.

A sparkling welcome

For that first festive toast, our choice is Champagne Gremillet Brut Ambassadeur — £33.95.

Fresh citrus, white flowers and peach give way to biscuit notes, making this a lovely way to welcome guests. There’s freshness to lift the palate and enough roundness to enjoy alongside a few simple canapés.

Chill it ahead of time, put out something to nibble, and give yourself a moment to join your guests.

A white for the first course

If seafood is opening proceedings, La Motte Chablis — £21.95 would be our pick.

Its mineral character and ripe fruit offer a balance of freshness and richness. We’d serve it with smoked salmon blinis, prawns or a fish starter with a creamy sauce.

Let the bottle warm a little in the glass after pouring; serving it too cold can hide some of its character.

A red for the Christmas table

Turkey arrives with plenty of company: stuffing, roast potatoes, gravy and cranberry sauce all compete for attention. We’d reach for Louis Latour Domaine de Valmoissine Pinot Noir — £19.75.

From the Var in Provence, this Pinot Noir has raspberry aromas and savoury notes, with blackcurrant, liquorice and mocha on the palate. Ripe tannins and balanced acidity make it an inviting choice for a table where everyone has piled their plate a little differently.

It’s also our suggestion for a mushroom Wellington, where its fruit and savoury character should sit comfortably alongside the earthy filling.

Something richer for roast beef

For households where Christmas centres on beef, Hermandad Malbec — £29.25 is our choice for a fuller red.

Rich black fruit, cherry and plum flavours give it generosity, with hints of violet and vanilla adding interest. We’d pair it with roast beef, a deeply flavoured gravy or a festive rib-eye dinner.

It would also make a thoughtful gift for someone who enjoys bold, full-bodied reds.

A mellow finish

When the plates have been cleared and the conversation settles into a slower rhythm, open Graham’s 10 Year Old Tawny Port — £28.75.

Oak ageing brings flavours of nuts, honey, figs and caramel. Serve it slightly chilled with blue cheese, an almond dessert or a slice of apple pie.

It’s a lovely bottle for that quieter part of Christmas, when there’s time to linger over the cheese board and hear the end of someone’s story.

Find your Christmas favourites

You don’t need all five bottles to make a memorable Christmas meal. Choose around the food you’re serving, the people coming and the amount you’d like to spend.

Come and talk to us at The Wine Cellar. Whether you’re choosing a bottle for dinner or a gift for someone special, we’ll help you find something you’ll look forward to opening.

Prices checked on 2 November 2026 and may change before Christmas. Availability is subject to stock.