A straw poll around the office generated lively discussion as to what colleagues will be drinking once we have closed our doors on Christmas Eve. We hope that our selections inspire your Festive food matching!
While there was unanimous agreement that any of the excellent J. Dumangin Fils Champagne would feature strongly over both Christmas Eve and Day, one or two suggested that Clairette de Die Tradition (at just 7% ABV) might be a sensible breakfast tipple for any chefs who are organizing the lunch!
Ex-pat Frenchman, Michael, is toying with either white Cassis Clos Sainte Magdeleine 2008 or Picpoul de Pinet Domaine Peyrificade 2009 with the traditional Gallic starter of oysters, while fellow Bristolian, Richard, is eyeing up Pouilly Fumé Les Loges 2009 en magnum to satisfy the extended family and do justice to a side of smoked salmon.
Few of us could improve on Hamish’s match of a magnum of Châteauneuf-du-Pape Père Caboche in the terrific 2007 vintage to mark the main day, partnered with a rib of beef. Our anglicized dutch colleague, Bianca, will be evoking memories of home with raclette accompanied by the crisp, red Savoie Mondeuse 2008. Vegetarian Michelle will be drinking the ripe, fruity Chinon l’Arpenty 2009 whose soft tannins will complement baked squash and spiced couscous.
Jason will be serving the garrigue-infused Pic Saint Loup ‘Arbouse’ 2008 to his thirsty neighbours on Boxing Day with Jane Grigson’s classic recipe for devilled and pulled turkey. Tom is looking forward to tucking in with Colombian-in-laws and thinks that Richeaume Tradition 2008 might have the versatility to tackle Bandeja Paisa - grilled steak, fried pork rind and chorizo on a bed of rice and red beans that is then topped with a fried egg and a side of sliced avocado and plantain – provided his cargo survives the journey to South America.
Joyeaux Noël and bon apétit,
Yapp Brothers
P.S. Stuck for last minute Christmas gift ideas? A wine gift voucher from Yapp Brothers could be ideal!
