There is a real art to picking the right tipple to go along with a Christmas dinner, and it’s not always a case of the most expensive bottle rules the (deliciously roasted chicken) roost.

If you’ve ever picked an exxy bottle to try and impress friends and family, only to be met with sour faces and strained compliments when the cork has been popped, I have your answer. I’ve spoken with a number of senior Australian winemakers to get the expert’s recommendation of who, what, wine!

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The Decadent Brunch

Christmas brunch generally serves as a warm-up for the big dinner occasion, but like any athlete would know, the warm-up is the most
important part. While you opt between French toast with maple syrup and berries, buttery croissants with cream and smoked salmon and dill frittatas, Senior Winemaker at Yellowglen, Trina Smith recommends a sparkling wine to quench your thirst.

Pick of the bunch:
Yellowglen Pink Sparkling – RRP $12.99

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The Casual BBQ

Nothing says summer in Australia like a classic poolside BBQ, complete with fresh seafood and a huge crunchy salad with creamy mayo. With all the energy you’ll exert going from the pool to the patio, Winemaker at Seppelt Wines, Mel Chester recommends choosing a white wine that is layered in texture, flinty and restrained. The key with this wine is to opt for one that lets the flavours of the seafood and salty sides shine through, adding to the meal, not overshadowing.

Pick of the bunch:
2013 Seppelt Jaluka Chardonnay – RRP $26.99

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The Main Course

To go along with a traditional roast turkey or ham, you need to choose a tipple which will cut through the rich, oily flavours. This is a challenge that Wynns Coonawarra’s Sarah Pidgeon believes a classic cab sav will rise to. Opt for a bottle with a bit of history, preferably aged 3-5 years and if you want to make a real impression, go for an award winner.

Pick of the bunch:
Wynns Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 – RRP $44.99

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Dessert

For those of us with a sweet tooth, this is the meal we’ve been waiting for. Whether you’re served a tropical fruit platter, a crispy fresh pavlova or a cheese platter complete with figs and grapes, Mel Chester from Seppelt Wines recommends a pinot grigio that has a crunchy and vibrant flavour.

Pick of the bunch:
2014 Lindeman’s Bin 85 Pinot Grigio – RRP $9.99

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The Boxing Day Recovery Session

With full bellies, only the brave will continue to feast come Boxing Day. But for those that are happy to graze on leftovers, a spicy, fragrant red is best. Winemaker at Wynns Coonawarra Estate, Sarah Pidgeon, recommends a shiraz that has a feathery light texture, with a depth of flavour to go along with a simple meal made of leftovers.

Pick of the bunch:
Wynns V&A Lane Shiraz 2012 – RRP $59.99

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