Once again it is that time of year when we are looking to stock up on wine, champagne and spirits for the festive season! Whether you fancy being the hostess with the mostess or finding the ideal gift for friends and family, today’s post is one for you.

I personally find wine buying a bit overwhelming, especially when faced with the large range offered by most outlets. When I’m at a loss I tend to stick with ‘the usual’ but I occasionally attempt to be adventurous by choosing a new one. However, my tendency to pick the most decorative bottle hasn’t always worked well!

On a positive note, I have learnt that all this indecision can be avoided by making use of the helpful advice of our local independent wine merchantThe Vineyard – located in South Street, Dorking.

John, the founder, and his team are all passionate about wine and always willing to give informative and friendly advice. They offer a wide range of wines, spirits and beers stocking over 1000 lines from Claret to Cloudy Bay and Burgundy to Bolgheri and offering a discount for mixed cases.

What wines to buy this Christmas

John has selected a couple of his top picks for you this Christmas, both of which he discoverd on his latest trip to South Africa.

Vuurberg White £15.99

An epic, delightful blend from the ever inventive Donovan Rall based in the Western Cape.

Le Riche Cabernet Sauvignon £17.99

The backbone of the range, it’s a phenomenal expression of Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon when it’s allowed a maritime influence, and it is this that sets it apart and marks it as truly Bordelaise.

More of John’s wine recommendations for Christmas:

Honoro Vera Calatuyd Spain £9.99

Deep, smoky fruit making a stylish nose. Full, round, rich palate and well-integrated tannins that flow beautifully.

Baglio Gibellina U.Passimiento Sicily Italy £9.99

A blend of fresh Frapatto and dried Nero d’Avola grapes grown at high altitude in the Sicilian hills. The rich concentrated red berry fruit is balanced by a lovely freshness.

The Perfect Spirits for Christmas Gifts

The Vineyard is also a great place to buy a special gift. We think one of the loveliest gifts they have is a bottle of the locally stilled Silent Pool Gin with two beautiful glasses featuring the distinctive design for which they are becoming famous for £45.00.

For the whisky lovers, we recommend The Glenrothes Sherry Cask Finish. Unlike most whiskies, Glenrothes is bottled at its peak of maturity and flavour rather than at a pre-determined age.

Another idea is a set of 6 Whisky Stones. What better way to take the edge off warm whisky than by using genuine Scottish granite rock. Keep them in the freezer and use one or two to cool your wee dram without diluting it at £21.99 per set.

Christmas provides the perfect excuse to uncork a bottle of something extra special. Whatever you choose for the occasion, what better way to raise a glass and enjoy it with friends and family.

We can help you to organise the perfect party this Christmas or New Years Eve.

Whether it is a small gathering of 10 people or a larger ‘do’ of 100 guests, we can order in your selected alcohol and arrange the catering, china and glassware so that you can enjoy your party without the stress.

Contact Surrey Hills Concierge to hear how we can help.