Choosing a fine wine doesn't always have to cost the earth, Mark Henderson writes.
Christmas shopping completed (mostly!), the turkey or ham ordered, enough food to feed a small army fills the shelves of fridge and pantry.
Despite exhortations to the contrary last year, a look at the bank balance reveals that, once again, you've already spent the equivalent of the national debt of a small Pacific Island nation.
Time then for some wine choices that won't break the bank.
Some wine/style choices that may surprise here: we all need a bit of adventure in our lives.
Price: Around $13-$14
Rating: A zesty, fruit burst start to the day
Upmarket choice: NV Taittinger Brut
Nothing like bubbles to start the day and this comes armed with only 6.5% alcohol so not headbanging stuff.
Distinctly grapey and fresh with a hint of lemon curd. Sweetness yes; but not at all cloying.
Zesty and clean as a whistle with spiced apple pie on the palate and finishing on orange/mandarin citrus.
Distinctive.
Price: Around $11-$12
Rating: A subtle transitionbefore the main event
Upmarket choice: 2015 Terra Sancta Rose
The day is warm (hopefully?), the meat is in the oven and you remembered to turn it on, or you're firing up the barbecue.
A glass of wine turns food preparation intoa pleasure.
Something not too big and demanding, but flavoursome.
With its berryfruit and strawberry, this is light and easy drinking.
Nothing too complex about it; not too challenging while your mind is on the cooking.
Price: Around $25
Rating: Toothsome and tasty
Upmarket choice: Primo Estate Joseph Sparkling Red NV
Take cuddly Australian shiraz and add bubbles to it.
Who would have thought?
This is actually a great combination with turkey and can give the ham a run for its money while the fizz helps cut through the richness.
Bright, juicy with spicy fruit and plums: hinting savoury with its licorice, soy and subtle balsamic notes.
Delicious.
Price: $19
Rating: Summer sunshine captured in the glass
Upmarket choice: 2015 Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc
Some will find sparkling shiraz a bit too rich for their tastes and look for something fresher.
What better than a bright, fresh sauvignon blanc like this one?
Gooseberry, passionfruit and musk leap out of the glass.
The palate is soft, with a whisper of citrusy zestiness, while nettle and grassy notes lead to the finish.
Easy drinking.
Price: RRP $24
Rating: This could win you back to chardonnay!
Upmarket choice: 2014 Neudorf Moutere Chardonnay
You've toyed with the frivolous bubbles and youthful sav but now want something with a little more weight and power to see you through the meal and onwards.
This ticks all the boxes.
Stylish with grilled cashew nut and hints of burnt match.
Nice creamy palate, with peach, tropical fruit and gentle oak seasoning.
Lovely length and it grew and grew in the glass.
Yum.
Price: RRP $27
Rating: Oh my goodness!
Upmarket choice: 2007 Fonseca LBV Port
There's always space for a fortified wine on Christmas Day.
Late in the evening when you're exhausted after the day's excitements, a glass can be something to luxuriate in.
This PX is actually sherry but in the "It's sherry Jim, but not as we know it camp''.
Dark brown, almost treacly to pour; think liquefied raisins.
Treacle, toffee, coffee and caramel on the palate and intensely sweet.
Dessert in a glass.
This is also magic poured over ice cream (but only for the grown-ups!).
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