Christmas Uncorked

Dan's Christmas Day Selection! I'm unabashedly traditional when it comes to Christmas. I want wines that are celebratory and instantly recognisable - think Champagne, Sancerre, Claret, and Sauternes.

Is it a little too early to be thinking about Christmas? I'm sure I spotted a couple of baubles when I was out shopping the other day.

Making the most of the big day and keeping it stress free all comes down to preparation. In my army days we would talk about the 6 P's - prior preparation and planning prevents poor performance (former military types may know a slightly more vulgar version with an additional adjective).

To get you prepared I've selected six classic wines which will ensure Christmas lunch goes off without a hitch, all presented in a wooden case. Reserve yours today for £35 (the balance will be collected in December) with free delivery in early December.

Start the day with a bright, crisp, fizzy aperitif. Keep it traditional and get your guests in the mood with a bottle of Champagne Paul Langier Cham pagne NV, AOC Champagne is a real crowd pleaser and the pop of the cork will let everyone know that the party has started.

Whether you're serving prawn cocktail, smoked salmon or any other light starter, Domaine Andre Neveu "Les Longues Fins" 2023, AOC Sancerre has the freshness and acidity to work. Everyone will love this classic expression of Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley.

Who doesn't love a Chablis? Famille Gueguen Chablis 2021, AOC Chablis brings lemon, quince and touches of white flower blossom, all underpinned with a steely minerality. The ideal partner to sushi, sashimi, scallop carpaccio and lots more.

The main event is more challenging, with all its varied flavours - turkey, pigs in blankets, roast potatoes, cranberry sauce, bread sauce - how do match such bold foodstuffs?

Clos du Vieux Bourg Morgon 2020, AOC Morgon from the cru village of Morgon has notes of cherries and cranberries, a heavenly combination with turkey It also has enough structure and depth to stand up to other game birds, such as goose or duck.

If you have a wine connoisseur joining you for lunch, a bold, aged, Claret will gladden their heart. Château des Demoiselles 2015, AOC Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux is from an excellent vintage which is just coming of age. If there's any left after the main course it will pair perfectly with any hard, mature cheeses.

Finally, a half bottle of Château Les Mingets 2020, AOC Sauternes will draw the meal to its close. A classic Bordeaux dessert wine with a balance of sweetness and acidity all rounded off with a lovely hint of marmalade.