£10.99, Majestic
Everyone needs a Pinot Noir at Christmas. Maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration but it is a very useful, versatile red wine to have around over the festive period, not least because wine drinkers who prefer white wine often find Pinot Noir acceptable.
This one, from sky-high vineyards in the north of Chile, is a little fuller and bolder in style than many, with more emphatic oak and velvety richness, making it particularly adaptable to the boisterous flavours that traditionally gather on the festive table and lie in wait to sabotage lighter, more ethereal Pinot Noirs.
The oak is balanced by bright plum, cherry and pomegranate fruit, sweet, nutmeggy spice and, as if to remind us that the Titon vineyards from which it comes are only 18km from the Pacific Ocean, a refreshing, slightly saline finish.
It will take turkey and all the trimmings and side dishes in its stride, or roast beef or duck, glazed Christmas ham, mushroom and chestnut wellington, roast butternut squash with festive stuffings, root vegetable gratins, or salmon en croute.
And I know I bang on about this, but drink it cool, not at room temperature. Around 16ºC is your goal. 14%. Empty bottle weight: 429g.
Mayu Gran Reserva Pinot Noir 2022, Valle de Elqui, Chile
£10.99 in any 6-bottle mix (£14.99 single), Majestic
18km from the Pacific Ocean sounds fascinating! Do you have any more details on the Titon vineyards? It must have an interesting terroir! If you are looking to play Subway Surfers Online, you can typically find various versions available on websites that host online games