SWEET AND FORTIFIED

NV Winemakers’ Selection by Sainsbury’s Muscat St Jean de Minervois, France

£5, half-bottle, Sainsbury’s

THIS is one of the cheapest sweeties around, but it doesn’t hold back in terms of flavour or finesse. The epitome of grapiness, with a lovely honeyed feel on the palate, it’s designed for lighter, fruity puddings and is a delight. It is also a classic match with the meaty flavours of pâté.

2011 Tesco Finest* Dessert Semillon, New South Wales, Australia

£6, half-bottle, Tesco

THIS sweet wine is off the scale in every respect. The flavour is near perfect, the value is extraordinary and the skill and excellence of the winery is never in doubt because it is made by De Bortoli, Australia’s finest sweet wine makers.

2010 Carpe Diem, Malaga Dulce Añejo, Spain

£6.99, 50cl, Lidl

I HAVE tasted all of Lidl’s top picks this season and this is one of only two that’s up to my lofty standards. A fortified, sherry-like, sweet, dark potion that tastes like the brulée part of a crème brulée, this is a crazy wine, but it’s incredible how well it goes with Christmas pudding and mince pies. Serve it cool, not cold, for maximum enjoyment.

NV Morrisons Cream Sherry, Spain

£7, 100cl, Morrisons

YOU have to suspend your disbelief because the label is terrible and the bottle is huge, but it is made by Lustau, one of the legendary sherry producers, and the sweetness and class in the glass is amazing. Drink with cakes and tarts and you’ll be amazed. Just pour it out of view of your guests!

2011 Tesco Finest* Late Bottled Vintage Port, Douro, Portugal

£10.50, reduced to £9.50 until January 9, Tesco

MADE by the Symington family, who own the well-known port brands Dow’s, Warre’s and Graham’s, this has layer upon layer of fruit and a fabulous mellow finish. The value is amazing, given its quality.