The 25th of November saw the coming together of a selection of outstanding local producers at the Bubbles and Botanicals Fair at South Lodge in West Sussex. Apart from sampling their wares, we also got the heads up on their favourite Sussex Christmas drinks. Over the next couple of weeks, we’re going to drip-feed you their Christmas recommendations. So, let’s get the party started with…
Mulling it over with Loxwood Meadworks
Loxwood Meadworks fuse Medieval with modern with their new take on mead and following demand, have developed their very own mulled mead version of their honey wine. All you have to do before you head out carol singing is gently warm your mead and garnish with lemon peel, a cinnamon stick and a grating of fresh nutmeg.
Shop here: Mulled Mead.
Cuvée and canapés from Bolney Estate
Pioneers on the Sussex wine scene, Bolney Estate are producing award-winning sparkling wines that are perfect for Christmas day. Their recommendation is a bottle (or two) of their Classic Cuvée for those Christmas canapés!
Shop here: Bolney Wine
Foxing clever with Fox and Fox
Another important name in the Sussex and UK wine scene and a huge supporter of all things local, Fox and Fox have got the Christmas celebrations pretty much covered. Stock up with:
Mosaic. This Brut is the perfect “anytime” fizz.
Tradition! This Brut Blanc de Noirs is a joyous wine and a Pinot Noir dominated fizz.
Inspiration. Their Brut Blanc de Gris celebrates the Pinot Gris, with a dash of ripe Chardonnay.
Meunier. A Brut Blanc de Blanc which is an elegant and exceptional Pinot Meunier Limited Edition.
Shop here: Fox and Fox
Crack on with the cheese with Mountfield
Mountfield Winery is set in stunning grounds just outside Battle. This Christmas, they recommend their 2018 Rosé – delicious paired with both shellfish and cheese.
Plumpton Reserve
If you really want to push the boat out (and why not), the Plumpton Estate Brut Reserve is your wine! A powerful blend of Reising, Seyval Blanc, Pinot Blanc and Regner, this wine has been aged for five years on lees. Pair with fish and poultry as well as tartes and cheeseboards. Or just savour in a quiet moment on your own!
Dillions’ aperitif
The folk at Slake Spirits take their inspiration from locally foraged flavours and a dash of folklore. Their gins are sublime and their Wild Elixirs will always bring cheer to a cold winter’s eve. Here’s their cocktail.
The Cosmos
- 35 ml Hedgerow Gin
- 35 ml Cranberry juice
- 35 ml Bacchus Wild Elixir
- 15 ml Lime juice
- 10 ml Sugar syrup
Shake and pour over ice. Top with a Cranberry skewer!
Shop here: Slake Spirits
A rum idea from Goldstone rum
Here is their unique after-Christmas lunch cocktail!
Goldstone Snowball
- 30 ml Goldstone White Rum
- 30 ml Advocaat
- 30 ml Choc van
- 50 ml Cream or almond milk
