Top 10 wines in the UK press

Thymiopoulos Xinomavro, Trilofos Naoussa 2011

This recommendation comes from David Williams in The Observer, who wrote that, “interest in Greek wine seems to be rising in roughly inverse proportion to the fortunes of its economy.”

He added: “Marks & Spencer is also doing its bit, and its red collaboration with Apostolos Thymiopoulos from Naoussa in Greek Macedonia, is classic Xinomavro: rippling with juicy dark cherry in a sweet-sour, Italianate mode. (£10.49, Marks & Spencer).”

Feiler-Artinger Blaufränkisch 2010

Williams also picked out this wine, writing that, “Like neighbouring Germany, Austria has a talent for red wines that tends to get obscured by its facility with whites, specifically those made from Grüner Veltliner and Riesling.”

He added: “For a sample of [Blaufränkisch] at its silkiest, aromatic best, it’s hard to look past the varied bottlings from cult producer Roland Velic at Weingut Moric (Fortnum & Mason has the Blaufränkisch Reserve 20111 at £32.50). Feilinger-Artinger’s take is more affordable but still full of subtly peppery blackberry succulence. (£10.99, Waitrose).”

Cedro Do Noval 2009

In The Independent, Terry Kirby picked this as a wine to enjoy with “Sunday lunch”. He wrote: “A red of depth and richness from one of the oldest port houses, many now producing table wines using a traditional mix of port grapes such as Touriga Nacional, while some Syrah adds velvety spice. Good for roast game, red meats and robust casseroles. The 2007 is even more developed. (£14.99, ocado.com (2009); £18.35, bbr.com (2007)).”

Tercius Alvarinho 2012

This wine was Kirby pick for one to drink with a “midweek meal”. He wrote: “From the Vinho Verde, made with local Alvarinho grapes but closer in style to Galician whites to the north – where it is called Albarino. No characteristic pétillance, but a fuller-bodied, concentrated white, with intense fruit flavours, lovely acidity and just a tinge of smokiness. Eat with seafood or possibly pan-fried pork escalopes. (£10.99, Marks & Spencer).”

2012 St. Hallett, Gamekeeper’s Reserve

Matthew Jukes picked out this wine in the Daily Mail, writing that it is, “made by one of the most talented chaps in Australia, Toby Barlow.”

Jukes added: “His exquisite taste in blending the three red grapes together has given us a jaw-droppingly moreish wine. With spice, briar, cedar and pepper on the nose and a long, black fruit-drenched palate this is a classic winter warmer. (£9.99, Waitrose).”

2012 Panul Merlot, Viñedos Marchigüe

Jukes also recommended this wine, writing: “This inexpensive Merlot is the finest young Chilean red I seen in ages. With bright, juicy, jolly red fruit and no noticeable oak flavours getting in the way Panul is a stunning ‘house red’ for you to pour with alacrity for friends and family without breaking the bank. (£7.25, Corney & Barrow tel. 020 7265 2400 & www.corneyandbarrow.com).”

Cambalala Chenin Blanc 2013

Writing in the Mail on Sunday, Olly Smith described this as his “top value” pick for Christmas. He wrote: “Top value for an apply, fruity fun wine that dazzles at this price. You need look no further for a bargain weeknight sip. (Aldi, £3.99).”

Pol Roger Brut 2002

This is the sparkler recommended by Victoria Moore in the Daily Telegraph. She wrote: “Mere words are not going to be able to express how I feel about this perfect, discreet, elegant champagne from the extremely good 2002 vintage. It seemed to stop a crowded room moving around me each time I have tasted it. I can feel the clichés descending: it’s Grace Kelly, an Aston Martin – oh look, Champagnes this good don’t come along often. (Lea & Sandeman, £59.95; also available from Berry Bros & Rudd Exchange and Farr Vintners by the case of six).”

Vajra Langhe Nebbiolo 2011 

Moore also picked out this wine, as a “Christmas dinner red”. She wrote: “Like a mini-Barolo but one that’s ready to drink and far better value. Scented, rich and generous, this would be particularly delicious if there’s Parmesan in your sprouts, chestnut in the stuffing and pancetta or bacon in the spread. Also, tastes even better the next day. (14.5%, Roberson, £23.95; Park + Bridge in Acton, £21.99; also Philglas & Swiggot, Fortnum & Mason, S H Jones Wines, Hangingditch, Latitude Wine and Lockett Bros).”

2012 Wolf Blass Yellow Label Chardonnay

And finally, Brian Elliott picked out this wine in The Scotsman. He wrote: “Branded Oz chardonnay can get a bad press these days but do not throw the baby out with the bath water. For sure, there is a discernible oaky backdrop but it is neatly balanced with apricot and honeydew melon fruit and proportionate lemon-centred acidity. Typical of what the genre does well. (£6.99, down from £9.99 until next Sunday at Morrisons).”