The Real Spirit of Christmas...

With all this talk of food I’ve failed to talk about my favourite accompaniment - alcohol!   And what is a great meal without a good drink to wash it down? Like many others, I find there’s no better way to get into the festive mood than to share a drink with family and friends; work takes second place to festive parties, everyone needs something medicinal to get through the madness and Christmas Day represents one of the best excuses to drink Champagne from the time you get out of your bed, until you retire into it again.  Alcohol is also an excellent gift so I’ve put together some intriguing ideas from the wine and spirit world.

 

First up, Piper-Heidsieck joined forces with Christian Louboutin to offer something for the fashionista in your life, the crystal, stiletto-shaped Champagne flute and accompanying special edition Champagne that is sure to bring out your inner burlesque diva for a smooth $500. 

In Paris, La Tour d’Argent opened their world-renowned wine cellar (estimated to hold more than 450,000 bottles valued at €25 million and guarded 24 hours a day, 365 days a year by its own security team) to auction off 18,000 vintages for those with a penchant for fine wine and deep pockets.  For those on a more conservative budget, the Beaujolais Biker Brigade kicked-off the Beaujolais Nouveau season in New York and Miami.  This wine should be consumed at its peak from mid November – early Jan and should be served at a cool 55 degrees, making it ideal for Floridian festivities. 

Finally, if you’re looking for the best time to drink your favourite wine then consider purchasing this book: When Wine Tastes Best 2010: A Biodynamic Calendar for Wine Drinkers. The book pinpoints the best days and hours to drink different wines based on the Biodynamic principles of the moon and the constellations.  If you’re skeptical or simply believe that wine is good at any time (you’re not alone) then take into consideration that two of the UK’s largest supermarkets use these principles when they are showcasing their new wines. 

Alternatively, stick to the usual PJ and socks gift combo and keep all of that sweet liquor and smooth wine for yourself.  Whatever your libation and wherever you are in the world, lets raise a glass to friends and family, no matter how near or far!