About this episode
In this festive episode, Janina sits down with Duncan Gammie, founder of The Wee Vinoteca, to build the ultimate Christmas Wine Box. Together they explore pairings for classic holiday dishes, taste through six standout bottles, and unpack why English fizz, Greek Assyrtiko and South African Chenin Blanc belong at your Christmas table this year.
Shownotes
[01:37] The Christmas Pairing Game begins - smoked salmon, prawn cocktail, Stilton, roast turkey, roast beef, nut roast, mince pies, sticky toffee pudding and panettone - what are the perfect wine pairings?
[21:45] Duncan shares his background, how The Wee Vinoteca started, which recently won Wine Club of the Year from IWC.
[24:26] Introducing the Christmas Wine Box - six wines designed to cover the entire holiday table with versatility and balance.
[24:48] Black Chalk Classic Cuvée – English Sparkling Wine (Hampshire, UK)
Duncan explains chalk soils, vintage differences, and why English sparkling has become a staple for holiday starters, seafood and celebrations.
[29:04] Visiting English vineyards - where to go.
[31:35] Muses Estates, Assyrtiko (mainland Greece)
A structured, saline white that handles seafood, richer starters and vegetable dishes. Duncan compares mainland Assyrtiko with Santorini, discussing old vines, wild ferments and gastronomy pairings.
[37:45] The conversation widens to Greek grapes and styles – Assyrtiko, Xinomavro, Savatiano, Roditis and today’s fresher, high-quality Retsina – with advice on discovering them by the glass or in tastings.
[39:20] Brookdale, Old Vine Chenin Blanc (Paarl, South Africa)
Why Chenin shines at Christmas: texture, generosity, acidity and ageing potential. References to producers like Lismore and stylistic comparisons to white Burgundy.
[43:40] Roccafiore, Sangiovese (Umbria, Italy)
Fresh Italian red ideal for antipasti, turkey and Boxing Day dishes. Duncan highlights its balance and easy versatility and contrasts Sangiovese from this inland region with Chianti and explaining how Umbrian Sangiovese offers softer tannins and great value. And discussing Sagrantino grape.
[47:51] Hey Diddle, Malbec/Cabernet Sauvignon (Claire Valley, Australia)
Discussing the Claire Valley, and what is happening in this region, alongside practical tips on opening bottles sealed with wax.
[51:54]
