Collection: HSBC Classics vs Contenders - The Wines

Thank you for joining our Classics vs Contenders event! Here you will find the wines poured on the evening.

Ca’ del Bosco’s Zero Dosage Noir. A blanc de noirs (100% Pinot) from the hidden gem Franciacorta region that has has matured for an extended period on its lees, imbuing it with an impressive richness and character that will even surprise that know-it-all uncle who reckons himself to be a fizz expert. Please contact us to order this wine.

 Macharnudo San Cayetano De La Riva: This extraordinary dry white Palomino from Jerez “The Montrachet of Sherry”, demonstrates the same finesse and intensity as its more famous fortified cousin, and despite its exotic origins, tastes like a mature grand Cru Chablis – perfect to enjoy with a few salty oysters, or smoked trout paté.

For when tucking into richer, creamier fish dishes, Domaine Rapet’s Corton-Charlemagne Grand Cru is a savvy choice; Vincent and Sylvette own 20 hectares of Burgundy’s most prestigious vineyards across Pernand-Vergelesses, Savigny les Beaune, Aloxe Corton and Beaune, making divine wines, which are the choice of true connoisseurs.

If looking for an alternative Pinot Noir with the fowl that traditionally takes pride of place on our Christmas tables, I’d highly recommend Bodega Chacra’s Cincuenta Y Cinco ‘55’, an exceptionally nuanced red from very old vines planted at vertiginous heights in the wilds of Patagonia, by visionary winemaker Mario Incisa dell Rochetta, whose family is best known for their Tuscan trailblazer Sassicaia. A more traditional but no less thrilling choice, Domaine Georges Lignier et Fils’s Clos de la Roche Grand Cru will also offer something aromatically rich and spicy to partner.

For Claret and Cabernet lovers, pairing equally well with beef, or venison, here are a couple of superb, under the radar alternatives to Bordeaux: The storied Tenuta San Leonardo, from the foothills of the Dolomites, often referred to as the ‘Sassicaia of the North’ is Italy’s finest Cabernet blend outside Tuscany, but is more akin to Bordeaux than Bolgheri. Alternatively, Leeuwin Estate Art Series Cabernet from vineyards in Western Australia’s cooler climate, coastal-influenced Margaret River is a complex, powerful yet silky velvet-fruited red with alluring spices strong enough to awake the ghost of Christmas past.

For a more avant-garde cheese & dessert pairing this year, try La Giaretta’s I Quadretti Amarone Classico Riserva with its super-rich cherry and black forest gateaux aromas, and fruit-driven freshness and energy that pairs beautifully with blue cheeses (Gorgonzola Piccante especially) and varied chocolate box assortments.