Wine expert predicts Champagne rush this Christmas

A Leamington wine expert has warned Champagne lovers to “buy early” if they want to ensure their Christmas has that extra sparkle. Alastair MacBrayne is predicting a mad rush for the bubbly as people use Christmas celebrations as a reason to forget the recession.

“There is no doubt about it, people are fed up with being frugal – this Christmas they are really going to let the corks pop and Champagne will certainly be in demand.

“If you want a wide choice, both in quality and price, then now is the time to buy,” says Alastair, who lives in Leamington and runs the Dorjes Wine Company from Warwick’s Heathcote Industrial Estate.

“Champagne sales have been down over the past year as a result of people tightening their belts,” said Alastair, “But I sense wine-lovers are ready to let loose again this Christmas and I think we could be in for a record-breaking year.”

Alastair, with a lifetime’s experience in the wine trade, has already started making Christmas deliveries in the region and says that website sales are rising rapidly. And he has plenty of expert advice to give if you’re looking to suit both your pocket and your tastebuds.

“The Generation Champagne from the Family Autreau, is elegant, expressive and very affordable  at only £18.99 per bottle, while those looking for something exciting and expressive should check out the small family House of Georges Gardet ,based at Chigny-Les-Roses in the Montagne de Reims. It is often described as Mini Krug with the Selected Reserve Cuvée that has old Reserve wines in the blend to give it personality at only £29.95 per bottle,” he advises.

If you want something extra special Alastair points you in the direction of Laurent-Perrier Grand Siècle La Cuvée at just under £100.00 per bottle, while if you’re feeling in the pink then the Laurent Perrier Brut Reserve Rosé could be just for you.

But it’s not just Champagne that can add the extra fizz to your Christmas celebrations. Alastair recommends several sparkling wines including the Blanc de Noirs Blush (100% Pinot Noir) from Domaine Ste Michelle, in Washington State, at just £10.99 a bottle.

“Please don’t just stick to Champagne – there are sparkling wines from all over the world that will make your party pop. Feel free to ask for advice and don’t let people bully you into choosing the dearest bottle. You don’t have to burst the bank to have perfect parties this Christmas,” he says. 

For further information visit dorjes.co.uk.