‘Tis the season for over indulgence & bubbles… and nothing says ‘celebration’ quite like a magnum of wine!
Magnums (that’s two standard bottles) are going through a bit of a revolution at the moment and have become a lot easier to get your hands on. So what’s all the fuss about? India tells us why she’ll be seeing double this Christmas…
Picking a large format bottle like a magnum for your festive celebrations is sure to bring drama and theatre to your gathering, as well as some extra quality to your wine.
Studies have shown that magnums create the perfect ratio between wine and oxygen. A magnum neck is the same size as a normal bottle but with twice the amount of wine inside, this limits the contact between wine and oxygen, meaning the wine stays fresher for longer and ages more slowly.
Choosing a magnum to pour on Christmas day or New Years Eve surrounded by family & friends is quite a spectacle and there has never been more choice available. Supermarkets have responded to their growth in popularity by increasing their range; Waitrose, Tesco & Aldi all stock magnums and even bigger format bottles like Jeroboams (8 bottles) and mighty Balthazars (16 bottles).
It is not just Champagnes that are available in larger format bottles, there are some great Bordeaux, Rioja, Rosé, Cava & Prosecco too.
Recommendations for retailers to head to for your magnums this Christmas, it’s also worth trying your local wine shop:
These guys have a great supply of magnums & are offering free delivery on orders over £100. The Chateau le Puy and the Jean–Pierre Robinot are especially delicious.
Majestic have a great range of magnums which are excellent value. Don’t just stick to fizz and reds, try their delicious Côtes de Provence in magnum with canapés or boxing day leftovers, it’s a great price for Provence rosé (£17.99).
A selection featuring all the classics like Brunello, Chianti & Chateau Musar and some great value fizz in magnums like the Codorniu Vintage Cava (£19.99) and San Leo Prosecco (currently on offer at £15.40)
Magnums are set to be the toast of Christmas so make mine a double!