16/12/2016 – Three Sparkling Wines for Christmas

(2016) A fine, traditional method and award-winning sparkling Pinot from Miguel Torres' Chilean operation, this has a creamy mousse and crisp apple aromas and flavours, a light touch of floral character adding extra interest, the finish dry but easy and approachable, in a very stylish wine.

(2016) The Hampshire vineyards of Exton Park are beautiful and are producing some exceptional sparkling wines, as I reported in 2015. Now it's a delight to see they have released their wines in half bottles, always such a handy size to have around. This is the Brut, a blend of 60% Pinot Noir and 40% Chardonnay, that in half bottle has wonderfully easy and sweet fruit, a touch of brioche and toast, and a glittering finish.

(2016) Note that the price is for a magnum (two bottles equivalent) of Moët & Chandon's non-vintage Brut, though the price does reflect seasonal Champagne discounting - on average it's nearer to £60-£70. Magnums always feel so good, as does this with its biscuity but bright and elegant nose, and raft of apple fruit moving through to a per, lemony finish that's also très easy to drink. A brilliant superior party stand-out.