Christmas Crackers Six

Whether you’re pouring for guests or seeking the perfect gift, we’ve taken the legwork out of sourcing six outstanding wines ready for the festivities.

Cahors,Tradition, Malbec, Château Haut-Monplaisir 2023 (organic)

“This wine, with its firm tannins and dense black plum fruits, is ripe and concentrated. From the high quality vineyards on the third terrace above the River Lot, the wine, with its dark coffee aroma, is worth aging. Drink from 2028. 93 points”

Roger Voss, WineEnthusiast.com, 10th August 2026

Chiroubles La Grosse Pierre, Domaine de la Grosse Pierre 2024

“This silky bistro-style gamay has strawberry aromas and a sour, dry finish with a little spice. Enjoy with cold meat.”

Will Lyons, The Times, 24th June 2026

Sesti 'Grangiovese', Toscana, Castello di Argiano 2024

"…not only superior to many rival Brunellos, but also drinking beautifully already, and I can hand on heart say I have never tasted a finer vintage since this wine debuted with the 2007. It is a true, medium-weight, lithe, red berry and wild herb-soaked Tuscan red with masses of class and a mellifluous nature that commands immense respect and also uncommon thirstiness in all who have the pleasure of its acquaintance.”

Matthew Jukes, MoneyWeek, 26th June 2026

Eva Pemper Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, Single Vineyard, Marlborough 2024

"Mineral, floral nose matched by uplifting orchard green fruit. Palate of spice and grapefruit with gooseberry highlights. Long finish with hints of salinity.”

95 points Gold Medal at International Wine Challenge 2026

Vouvray, Clos le Vigneau, Château Gaudrelle 2024 (organic)

"Located in Rochecorbon, Château Gauderelle was founded in the 17th century and for the last 100 years, no herbicides nor insecticides have been used and current owner Eric Pasquier decided to go completely biodynamic in 2021, with all grapes collected by hand. He even uses horse power in his vineyards. This wine is full-bodied, just off-dry Chenin Blanc, produced biodynamically with minimal use of sulphur. A sec-tendre, light golden yellow in colour, it is characterised by notes of quince fruit and acacia flower and is best enjoyed now with grilled white fish, or scallops.”

Natasha Heard, LuxuryLifestyleMag.co.uk, 22nd July 2026

Ide 'El Verano' Chardonnay, Sonoma County 2024

"This is made by Sonoma Bespoke, who aim to make good quality, value-driven wines in Sonoma. Textured and refined, this has ripe pear, peach and citrus fruit, showing some mid-palate richness but also nice brightness on the finish, with good acidity. This is made more in a Chablis style, looking to express the bright fruit of Chardonnay, rather than oak influence and ripeness. Stylish and expansive. 91/100”

Jamie Goode, www.wineanorak.com, ‘Six wines from UK independent wine merchant’, 11th July 2026