The Christmas Case
Welcome to the Christmas edition of the l’Art du Vin wine club.
As the year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued enthusiasm and support throughout 2025. It has been a pleasure sharing discoveries from across the wine world with you, and I hope these bottles have brought joy to your table.
For this festive season, we’ve curated a case that celebrates both tradition and indulgence. These wines are designed to accompany the celebrations, feasts, and quiet moments of reflection that December brings. Whether you’re raising a glass with friends, pairing with Christmas dinner, or simply enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, I trust this selection will bring warmth and delight.
From all of us at l’Art du Vin, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May your celebrations be filled with joy, laughter, and of course, great wine.
Philippe
Crémant de Bourgogne Blanc de Blancs, Domaine Henri Delagrange, Burgundy, France NV
Producer
Domaine Henri Delagrange is a historic, family-owned Burgundy estate in Volnay, run by Didier Delagrange (6th gen) and now his son Alexis (7th gen), known for elegant Pinot Noir & Chardonnay as well as this excellent Cremant.
Tasting Notes
Delicate bubbles carry aromas of green apple, citrus zest, and freshly baked brioche. The palate is crisp yet creamy, with a fine mousse and a refreshing mineral finish.
Food Pairing
Perfect for festive toasts, smoked salmon blinis, or oysters. Also a versatile partner to creamy cheeses and lighter canapés.
Muscadet de Sèvre‑et‑Maine sur Lie Château Haute Carizière, Domaine Daniel Bideau, Loire, France 2024
Producer
Domaine Daniel Bideau is a family‑run estate in the Loire Valley, specialising in Muscadet wines that highlight the purity and freshness of the Melon de Bourgogne grape. Extended ageing on the lees adds complexity and texture to their wines.
Tasting Notes
Bright and lively, with notes of lemon, green apple, and subtle saline minerality. The sur lie ageing lends a gentle creaminess and depth to the crisp, refreshing palate.
Food Pairing
A classic match for shellfish—think prawn cocktail, oysters and smoked salmon.
Cabrol Rouge, Domaine Cabrol, South West, France 2023
Producer
Domaine Cabrol is a historic family-run estate in the Languedoc region of France, known for producing distinctive wines from high-altitude vineyards in the Cabardès AOC, focusing on terroir expression with practices like nighttime harvesting, sustainable viticulture (Terra Vitis certified), and a mix of traditional and modern techniques.
Tasting Notes
A generous, fruit‑forward red with aromas of blackberries, plums, and garrigue herbs. The palate is smooth and rounded, with soft tannins and a touch of spice on the finish.
Food Pairing
Ideal with hearty winter dishes—slow‑cooked lamb, cassoulet, or roast game. Also pairs beautifully with mature cheeses.
Wilyabrup Valley Cabernet Merlot, Woodlands, Margaret River, Australia 2020
Producer
Woodlands is one of Margaret River’s founding wineries, established in 1973. Renowned for Bordeaux‑style blends, they craft wines of elegance and longevity, showcasing the unique terroir of the Wilyabrup Valley.
Tasting Notes
Rich and structured, with layers of cassis, dark chocolate, and cedar. The Merlot adds plushness to the firm Cabernet backbone, creating a wine of balance and depth.
Food Pairing
A superb match for roast beef, venison, or festive turkey with all the trimmings. Also excellent alongside mushroom‑based dishes or aged hard cheeses.