Dreaming of a Red Christmas?
The Bumper Christmas Newsletter!
Seasons Greetings! The count down to Christmas has begun! We thought you might like a few moments of escapism to dream of where to holiday in 2015 in this bumper edition newsletter. Plus, we’ll be ticking off the days with our advent calender of 24 recommended wines as well as giving you some gift ideas for that extra special stocking filler….
24 Advent Wines to Enjoy Before Xmas Day!
In the countdown to Christmas we will be recommending a different bottle of wine to try each day available to purchase in the UK. Follow us on Twitter @Smooth_Red or Facebook /Facebook to hear our top tips!
Christmas Gift Ideas
If you’re still looking for a Christmas stocking filler, look no further! A SmoothRedgift voucher can be redeemed against any wine tour at any time and since the trip is tailored to suit your individual needs it will definitely be enjoyed by all those who receive!
Blow the Budget for Someone Special
Looking for something really really special? That once in a lifetime trip that will really blow the budget? Why not jet off in your very own private plane and enjoy a whirl-wind seven day, private tour of three wine regions – Start with Chianti andBrunello di Montalcino, followed by Cabernet Sauvignon and washed down with Tempranillo. You’ll be staying in luxury hotels with private, chauffeured guided tours and spoilt thoroughly throughout. This exclusive getaway is the gift that even Santa can’t deliver! Contact us for more information.
Escape to the Top 5 Wine Destinations of 2015!
In at No. 5 is Carcassonne. Located in the Languedoc-Roussillon region in southern France, this city is famous for the Cite de Carcassonne, a medieval fortress which for nearly twenty years has been a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once you’ve explored the cobbled streets and taken in the sights and sounds, enjoy sampling a glass or two of the wide range of local wines available including Corbiere, Minervois and Pic St Loup to name just a few.
Porto comes in at No. 4. The second largest city in Portugal, situated on the Douro River and home to one of the country’s most most famous exports, Port. A charming and charismatic city with stunning colourful houses, winding down towards the river where river boats cruise along. As one of the oldest European centres, Porto is a city not to be missed – once you’ve walked the picturesque streets, relax and sample the local treats and wines on over.
At No. 3 is Rioja. It may be one of the smallest provinces in Spain, but this perfectly formed region has found world fame due to the hearty bottles of Rioja produced each year! A valley of vineyards with beautiful cities and medieval villages to discover, sheltered by the magnificent Cantabrian Mountains. With its wide range of wineries including chateaux-style and grand famous estates, you’ll be spoilt for choice and longing to linger a bit longer in this idyllic setting.
Puglia, located on the southerly Salento peninsula of Italy, comes in at No. 2. This area still offers a picture postcard vista with its ancient, gnarled olive trees found behind low stone walls and a landscape dotted with the distinctive, white-washed ‘trulli’ buildings. Negroamaro is king here, making robust reds and fragrant rosés especially in the south, whilst Primitivo is probably the most recognised grape, thanks to its close genetic twin, the Zinfandel of California. Sit back, relax and enjoy the local gastronomic delights and wines of this region.
Lastly, in at No 1 is Santorini. This spectacular Greek Island isn’t just famous for its picture perfect sunsets, dramatic views and beautiful beaches but also its award-winning wines. Santorini has been producing great wines since ancient times, over 3000 years, and with over forty native wine varieties there’s a wealth of wineries to visit and wines to savour.
Santorini has a unique climate and the mineral content of its volcanic soil, means wine aficionados will get to enjoy some of the best wines produced in Greece including Assyrtiko, Athiri and Aidani varieties.
