Your Guide to Festive Wines - This Month's Novel Wines Explorer's Club
Welcome to this month's Novel Wines Explorer's Club, the UK's most exciting wine subscription for the curious drinker. Each month, we will introduce you to a new wine region as part of our promise to deliver no two wines the same for a whole year. Not a member yet? Subscribe here.
Looking for an older guide? See all the Explorer's Club guides here.
What's in this month's Explorer's Club?
This month, we’re embracing the magic of the holiday season with a festive Explorer case inspired by the warmth and cheer of Christmas. But in traditional Novel Wines fashion, you won’t be finding any classic holiday reds or sparklers, we have chosen some more surprising choices for your perfect for celebrations.
Explore wines with flavours that evoke cozy fireside evenings, festive gatherings, and the comforting aromas of the season. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas feast, giving the gift of wine, or simply indulging in a moment of holiday bliss, this month’s case has been handpicked to make every occasion merry and bright.
So, pour a glass, gather your loved ones, and let this special collection transport you to the heart of holiday traditions around the world. As always, we’re here to answer your questions and wish you the happiest of holidays!
You can’t start a Christmas party without some bubbles! Hailing from the picturesque Serra Gaúcha region in Southern Brazil, Fausto Pizzato is a sparkling wine that brings a vibrant celebration in every glass. Produced by the Pizzato family, pioneers in crafting high-quality wines from this emerging region, their commitment to innovation and tradition shines through in every bottle.
Made using the traditional method, it is lean and fresh with fine, persistent bubbles, it greets you with enticing aromas of green apple, citrus zest, and freshly baked brioche. On the palate, expect a harmonious balance of crisp acidity, refreshing notes of lemon and pear, and a creamy texture that leads to a lively, dry finish.
Perfect for festive toasts, parties, or accompanying light bites like smoked salmon or creamy cheeses, this sparkling wine embodies the spirit of celebration. Fausto Pizzato Brut is a dazzling example of Brazil’s growing reputation for crafting world-class sparkling wines, making it a must-try for sparkling wine enthusiasts.
From the picturesque Pfalz region of Germany, Oliver Zeter has become a celebrated name in the world of modern winemaking. Known for his innovative yet thoughtful approach, Zeter crafts wines that showcase both elegance and versatility. His passion for excellence shines through in this beautifully expressive Grauburgunder (Pinot Gris / Grigio).
It is a stunning example of this delicious grape. With a bouquet of ripe orchard fruits like pear and golden apple, complemented by subtle hints of almond and white blossom, it offers an enticing introduction. On the palate, it’s vibrant and textured, balancing luscious fruit flavours of peach and citrus with a refreshing minerality and a touch of spice on the finish. You’ll never believe it’s the same Pinot Grigio grape that you see in Italy!
This wine’s rounded structure and crisp acidity make it a delightful companion to roasted poultry, or a festive platter of charcuterie and cheeses, perfectly capturing the charm and complexity of this versatile varietal, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.
From the historic vineyards of Ilok in eastern Croatia, Iločki Podrumi is one of the country’s most esteemed wineries, with a legacy that dates back centuries. Nestled along the Danube River, this region is known for its exceptional terroir, which lends elegance and character to its wines.
The Frankovka Rosé Select is the perfect Christmas Rose. Crafted from the Frankovka (Blaufränkisch) grape, delivering a rosé that’s as vibrant as the Adriatic coastline. With a delicate salmon-pink hue, it opens with enticing aromas of wild strawberries, raspberries, and a hint of rose petals. On the palate, it’s fresh and lively, with flavours of red currants and citrus zest balanced by a subtle minerality and a crisp, dry finish.
Perfect as an aperitif or paired with Mediterranean dishes like grilled fish, light salads, or prosciutto and melon, this rosé is a versatile delight. It beautifully reflects Croatia’s winemaking heritage and offers a refreshing glimpse into the country’s burgeoning reputation for producing world-class wines.
Nestled in the serene coastal region of Canelones, Uruguay, Viñedo de los Vientos is a boutique winery renowned for its innovative approach and respect for tradition. Led by winemaker Pablo Fallabrino, the estate artfully combines old-world techniques with the unique microclimate of Uruguay to create captivating wines with character and soul.
This Barberais a brilliant expression of this Italian grape, thriving in its new South American home. Vibrant and juicy, it opens with inviting aromas of ripe cherries, blackberries, and a hint of dried herbs – very Christmassy indeed! On the palate, it delivers a lively burst of red fruit flavours, underscored by refreshing acidity and subtle notes of earth and spice, characteristic of its coastal terroir. The smooth tannins and balanced structure make it an incredibly versatile wine.
A fantastic match for duck or goose, this Barbera is a delightful discovery for fans of approachable, food-friendly reds. The Viñedo de los Vientos Barbera 2020 is a testament to Pablo Fallabrino’s dedication to crafting wines that bridge tradition and innovation, offering a taste of Uruguay’s burgeoning wine scene.
From the sun-soaked Istrian peninsula of Croatia, Frank Arman crafts wines that celebrate the region’s unique blend of Mediterranean and continental influences. A family-run winery with deep roots in Istria’s winemaking traditions, Frank Arman is known for producing seriously wonderful and expressive wines that reflect the local terroir.
This hearty red is a testament to this dedication, offering a rich and layered expression of Merlot. On the nose, it reveals inviting aromas of ripe plums, black cherries, and a touch of dark chocolate, interwoven with hints of tobacco and sweet spice. The palate is velvety and full-bodied, with flavours of blackberries, redcurrants, and a subtle earthiness, all balanced by soft tannins and a lingering, smooth finish.
Ideal alongside roasted lamb, grilled vegetables, or of course with that Turkey with all the trimmings, this Merlot is both versatile and deeply satisfying. It showcases the remarkable potential of Istrian wines, making it a standout choice for lovers of bold yet refined reds.
Steeped in tradition and expertise, Wiese & Krohn is one of Portugal’s most respected Port houses, producing exceptional fortified wines since 1865. Based in the heart of the Douro Valley, Krohn is renowned for its dedication to crafting Ports that showcase the rich flavours and complexity of this historic region.
The Krohn Ruby Port NV is a classic expression of youthful and vibrant Port. With a deep ruby colour, it bursts with aromas of ripe red fruits like cherries, plums, and raspberries, complemented by subtle hints of spice. On the palate, it’s rich and luscious, with concentrated fruit flavours, a velvety texture, and a balanced sweetness that leads to a smooth, warming finish.
Perfect for pairing with dark chocolate desserts, aged cheeses, or simply enjoyed on its own, this Ruby Port is an excellent way to end any Christmas dinner. The Krohn Ruby Port NV offers an inviting, approachable style that captures the essence of Portugal’s winemaking heritage.
