Get into the party spirit, says Susy Atkins, with a bright, juicy red
Terribly well-organised party planners will have stocked up weeks ago, but there are plenty of us (yes, me too) who only turn our thoughts properly to buying Christmas wine after Bonfire Night. So here we are and those who waited may be glad (smug) as there are some keen bargains this weekend, especially among the reds suitable for a big bash. It’s time to pounce.
What makes a good party red? It’s a combination of bright, juicy fruit and an easy-drinking, soft texture. Heavy tannins, hearty oak and peppery spice are no-nos, since the wine may not be partnered with substantial food. And a decent price tag is, of course, essential – not exactly bargain basement perhaps, but certainly not splash-out, not for a crowd. A special offer is especially welcome right now.
Waitrose is a sensible place to start as it currently has 25 per cent off all wines priced over £5 if you buy six bottles. But only until Tuesday, so do rush. Best Waitrose party reds include the ripe, redcurrantloaded Cellier des Dauphins Réserve des Vignerons Merlot-Grenache NV, France (13.5% ABV, usual price £5.89) and the strawberry-rich, subtly oaky Anda TempranilloSyrah 2018 from southern Spain (14% ABV, normal price £7.99, but this goes on offer again at £6.49 for a bottle from Wednesday to Dec 4).
The three on the right are canny choices to buy in for a bash and also happen to be on offer now. The German red (yes, really) is the somewhat lighter, more unusual choice, the Bordeaux is the most trad, and the Aussie is the ripest. Take your pick; they’ll each go down a storm with a crowd.
TASTE THE DIFFERENCE RHEINHESSEN PINOT NOIR 2018
Germany (12.5%, Sainsbury’s, £8 down to £6.75 until Nov 19)
Made from grapes grown in Nierstein, this is a refreshing and tangy pinot dancing with red cherries and blackberries, with hints of clove and cinnamon spice. Fine on its own or with a charcuterie board.
FINEST MONTAGNE ST EMILION 2018
Bordeaux, France (13.5%, Tesco, £9 down to £8 until Nov 18)
Claret is a classic choice at Christmas and this merlotbased one is both fresh and velvetsmooth enough to open at a party. Made by Yvon Mau, it’s got plums and damsons and isn’t too sweetly ripe.
MARKS & SPENCER COONAWARRA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018
Australia (14% , £9 down to £7 until Dec 2)
This wine is great value at its normal price, but on offer it’s a true bargain. Not a wimp, and there’s a bit of tannic grip here, but that means it will take on a multi-dish party buffet. At the heart is ripe, pure cassis.