The Buying Director's Collection, Christmas 2015

At Christmas, I try to combine the classics with something a little more adventurous – but probably not so adventurous as to not have Champagne. Thereafter it’s contrasts: more delicate whites alongside something more forthright; enjoyable (but not simple) reds and showstoppers. Then, as we relax into proceedings, some choices from the slow-lane: wines to be sipped and lingered over. This selection of wines should make your “what to drink” decision-making that little bit easier.

The 12-bottle case includes two bottles of the following:

Champagne
Gardet Brut Tradition Brut NV

Fruity white
Grüner Veltliner Hohenberg 2012, Josef Ehmoser

Richer White
Hautes Côtes de Beaune Sous Eguison 2010, Jean-Noël Gagnard

Lighter Red
Moulin-à-Vent Les Rouchaux 2011, Thibault Liger-Belair

Centrepiece Red
Châteauneuf-du-Pape Piedlong 2011, L’Accent du Domaine de la Roquette

Dessert Wine
Banyuls Cuvée Parcé Frères, Domaine de la Rectorie