December is the Friday of months and this year it happened to start on a weekend, which means we’ll have five Saturdays ahead of us to celebrate. Whether you’re hosting or joining a party, or simply having a much needed evening of “me time”, a glass of wine to match the occasion will always be welcome.

Below, three different wines for the weekend, with three different occasions in mind to enjoy this month…

Côtes du Rhône ‘Alizé’ 2016, Les Deux Cols
14% ABV
€16.95 – Available at Searsons, siyps.com

This balanced rouge combines 55% Grenache, 35% Syrah and 10% Cinsault for a delightful blend of moderate tannins and plenty of concentrated red and black fruit flavours.

Cherries, cranberries and blackberries, along with a delicate peppery note and a juicy acidity, make of it a very versatile glass that will go nicely with a cheese and charcuterie board as well as with lamb or roasted turkey.

Beaumont des Crayeres Grande Réserve NV Champagne

12% ABV

€29.95 (on offer from €36.95) – Available at O’Briens Wine

This Champagne is just the perfect aperitif. Aged for two years and made with a 60% Pinot Meunier, 25% Chardonnay and 15% Pinot Noir, it offers a fresh and citrusy exemplar of intense bubbles and a pleasant floral touch.

One to welcome your guests or to show appreciation to your host.

Muga Rioja Blanco Barrel Fermented
13% ABV
€16.00 – Available at Donnybrook Fair and wineonline.ie

White wines for the weekend’s winter warmer tip? Yes, but not your typical crisp pour. This barrel aged Rioja is a rich and creamy combo of Viura and Malvasia with a full body and a parade of aromas such as lemon curd, ripe pineapple, vanilla and frangipane.

Very aromatic and with a long finish, it’s a complex treat worthy of lobster and creamy seafood dishes, but also one that stands its ground on its own.

Gabriela’s passion for writing is only matched by her love for food and wine. Journalist, confectioner and sommelier, she fell in love with Ireland years ago and moved from Venezuela to Dublin in 2014.

Since then, she has written about and worked in the local food scene, and she’s determined to discover and share the different traditions, flavours and places that have led Irish food and drink to fascinate her.

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