Christmas pudding, mince pies and trifle are not for everyone when it comes to the sweet end of Christmas desert indulgence. Surely everyone likes chocolate though, and surely chocolate versions of these classics could convert the hordes of naysayers.
The usual candidates (Port, Sauternes etc.) this time of year will certainly work well with a wide variety of sweet treats however allow us to present a wine from esteemed produced Roc Des Anges in the Roussillon.
Roc Des Anges Fagayra Red 2013
Bottle Price: £28.95 / €39.99 Case Bottle Price: £26.06 / €35.99
This is a "Vin Doux Naturel" (translating as "naturally sweet") from the Maury area. Maury is at the northern limit of the Côtes du Roussillon-Villages area in SW France. We think this beautiful, opulent sweet wine pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of chocolate based puddings from chocolate torte right through to Yule Log. The well integrated acidity and textured mouthfeel of the wine would be sublime with chocolate panna cotta or chocolate profiteroles. Just as long as you remember the golden rule, keep the wine sweeter than the desert.
Traditionally speaking (and Christmas certainly is a time for tradition), a fine bottle of Port is deserving of a seat at the Christmas table.
Ramos Pinto 30yr Old Tawny Port 50cl
Bottle Price: £47.50 / €62.83 Case Bottle Price: £42.75 / €56.55
An aged tawny port such as Ramos Pinto 30 Year old Tawny is a rarefied and delicate treat and is one that is particularly suited to the myriad of post dinner offerings usually on offer. From Chocolate Puddings to Stilton and figs, this is a Port that is sure to be memorable and indulgent.
