As Dry January draws to a close, we here at Laithwaite’s would like to congratulate wine lovers who have stayed strong and kept their resolution. The finishing line is close, so take your pick from our top suggestions below to ensure your first glass of 2015 is one to remember…
…That being said, you might have decided to give Dry January a miss entirely, in which case we applaud your commitment to the grape. We’re confident there is something for you, too, in this great selection.
After much deliberation, here are our top five recommendations for the first bottle of the year – and they can still be found in our January Sale, while stocks last!
1. Ravissement des Vignes 1996
We are a little giddy to have been able to secure such a remarkable 1996 vintage, made exclusively from Chardonnay. Carefully cellared, quality Champagne becomes something unique and magical – loved in the finest restaurants of Paris, where it commands eye watering prices, Blanc de Blancs Champagne of this age rarely makes it to Britain. Savour the irresistible soft fizz, bright citrus freshness and underlying toasty, nutty richness. For a limited time, we are offering this ethereal treat for £40 a bottle.
2. Gaston Burtin Premier Cru 2009
This fine vintage Champagne is crafted from Pinot Noir grown in the finest Premier Cru vineyards – a cut above the rest and distinctly rich in flavour. 2009 is an excellent vintage, brimming with pear, quince, honey and classic, toasted brioche character. It is a true testament to the skill and dedication of Gaston Burtin’s acclaimed winemakers. Enjoy on its own, or with celebratory canapés – half price at the moment, just £24.99 a bottle.
3. Illustrious Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
At time of writing, there are only 53 bottles left of this stunning red in our cellar. It is the result of a “hush hush” deal with one of Napa Valley’s big guns – their top wine is among the highest rated Cabernets in the world. We secured a small parcel exclusive to our customers and it’s yours for £40 per bottle – if you hurry… Full of succulent, ripe fruit flavours this magnificent Cabernet is perfect with a juicy steak or rack of lamb. Ideally, decant an hour before serving to release all the flavours.
4. Château Tour du Roch-Milon 2009
For this exciting scoop we head to Pauillac, the priciest corner of Bordeaux. From exactly the same soils and grape varieties as a £650 a bottle Bordeaux ‘First Growth’, this is a fraction of the price. Why? Because no official château existed here when Bordeaux properties were classified back in 1855, so Tour du Roch-Milon missed out on becoming a classed growth like its neighbours. That quirk of fate means it’s something of a fine wine lover’s secret bargain. With a real density of blackcurrant and cedar, it is perfect with a fine Sunday lunch – and is currently £30 a bottle from Laithwaite’s.
5. Mystery Cases
Finally, if you really want to make February a month to remember, treat yourself to one of our ever-popular Mystery Cases. With these cases one thing is certain – you will be bagging an excellent deal. Each of our cases is worth at least £100, and you only pay £83.88. Choose between reds, whites or leave it up to us, we’ll make sure it’s a special surprise. You may even find you’ve hit the jackpot and nabbed a case worth £1,000!
