As the days grow shorter and the air crisper, the anticipation for the festive season begins to simmer. Advent calendars become a delightful daily ritual, offering a small treat to savour in the lead-up to Christmas.
For wine enthusiasts, the Virgin Wines’ Mixed Wine Advent Calendar 2024 presents an enticing prospect – a chance to explore a curated selection of 24 187ml wines, culminating in a grand finale on Christmas Day when there’s a full-sized bottle to enjoy.
But what exactly makes this wine advent calendar so popular?
Here, the Christmas.co.uk wine fans explore the reasons behind its festive allure.
Why choose Virgin Wines’ Mixed Wine Advent Calendar?
Virgin Wines’ Mixed Wine Advent Calendar consistently ranks among the most sought-after options in the UK – and for good reason. This popularity can be attributed to several factors:
- Unique and diverse selection: Virgin Wines prides itself on offering a carefully chosen selection that features new and exciting wines not found in previous calendars. This ensures a delightful surprise every day, with an opportunity to discover new favourites from across the globe
- Curated by experts: The calendar is meticulously crafted by Virgin Wines’ wine experts, ensuring a well-balanced selection that caters to a variety of palates. From crisp whites to bold reds and everything in between, there’s something to tantalise every taste bud
- Excellent value: While advent calendars can vary in price, Virgin Wines’ offering strikes a balance between affordability and quality. With 24 unique wines, a sparkling bottle, and a bonus full-size bottle, it presents a delightful exploration at a reasonable cost.
Other reasons to celebrate with a wine advent calendar
The gift of discovery: This calendar is more than just a collection of wines; it’s a journey of exploration. Each day unveils a new flavour profile, grape varietal, or region, allowing you to expand your wine knowledge and preferences
A festive tradition: The daily ritual of opening a new door adds a touch of excitement to the Christmas countdown. It’s a delightful way to unwind after a long day or share a special moment with loved ones
- Perfect for gifting: For the wine connoisseur in your life, Virgin Wines’ Mixed Wine Advent Calendar is a thoughtful and unique gift that keeps on giving throughout December. Or you could simply treat yourself to a wonderful collection of wines.
Enhancing your wine advent calendar experience
To fully savour the wine tasting experience, consider these tips:
- Food pairings: Experiment with food pairings to elevate the enjoyment of each wine. Research or browse online resources to discover complementary flavours that will tantalise your taste buds. We give some ideas below with our wine review
- Share the experience: Gather your friends or family and turn the daily wine reveal into a social event. Discuss tasting notes, share your discoveries, and create lasting festive memories
- Storing your calendar: Wine is best enjoyed at the right temperature. Ideally, store your calendar in a cool, dark place, or transfer the opened bottles to a fridge if necessary.
A glimpse inside the Virgin Wines’ Mixed Wine Advent Calendar
Here we take a closer look at some of our tasting favourites in the calendar – it helps, we think, that Virgin Wines have a guide on their webpage about each wine. For instance, white wines are rated from bone dry to sweet, while reds are rated from light to full-bodied.
El Sabio Pinot Grigio: We thought this crisp and refreshing Pinot Grigio from El Sabio offered a delicate balance of citrus and floral notes. Its light acidity makes it a versatile choice for various dishes. Pair it with grilled seafood, light salads or creamy pasta dishes
Lekker Merlot: The Lekker Merlot boasts a rich and velvety texture with notes of ripe plum and chocolate. Its medium tannins make it a satisfying choice for a variety of meals – it’s a lovely wine to drink with or without food. Enjoy it with hearty stews, roasted meats, or grilled vegetables
The Black Pig The Prize Shiraz: We loved this full-bodied, prize winning Shiraz from The Black Pig which delivers bold flavours of blackberry, spice and a touch of oak. Its complex character makes it a perfect choice for indulging in a glass on its own. Pair it with grilled lamb, aged cheeses, or chocolate desserts
- Casa Defra Prosecco: This sparkling Prosecco from Casa Defra offers a refreshing and bubbly experience with notes of green apple and citrus. Its light and effervescent character makes it ideal for celebrations or as an aperitif. Enjoy it with appetisers, light salads, or seafood dishes
- Jose Rosé: This rosé from Jose boasts a delicate pink hue and a refreshing taste with notes of strawberry and floral aromas. Its light and fruity profile makes it a versatile choice for various occasions. Pair it with grilled chicken, salmon or a charcuterie board.
Other wine advent calendars from Virgin Wines
While the Mixed Wine Advent Calendar offers a delightful blend of red, white and sparkling wines, Virgin Wines caters to specific preferences with separate White Wine and Red Wine Advent Calendars.
For white wine lovers, there’s a dedicated calendar featuring 24 mini bottles showcasing a variety of white wines, sparkling options, and even a full-size bottle for Christmas Day.
Similarly, red wine enthusiasts can embark on a journey through 24 exclusively red wines, encompassing a range of styles and regions, culminating in a grand finale bottle to celebrate Christmas.
Alternative wine advent calendars to consider
If the Virgin Wines’ Mixed Wine Advent Calendar piques your interest, you might also consider these well-regarded options among wine lovers in the UK:
- John Lewis Wine Advent Calendar: John Lewis’s calendar is known for its luxurious presentation – it costs £100 – and has a focus on premium wines, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a more indulgent experience.
- Laithwaite’s Mixed Wine Advent Calendar: Read our review on this delightful £89.99 countdown to Christmas with a diverse selection of 24 quarter-bottles of red and white wines. Each day, you’ll discover a new and exciting flavour, perfect for pairing with festive meals or enjoying on your own.
The 2024 Virgin Wines’ Mixed Wine Advent Calendar
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of festive advent calendars, Virgin Wines’ Mixed Wine Advent Calendar 2024 promises a delightful journey through a diverse array of wines.
With its carefully curated selection, attractive pricing, and bonus full-size bottle, it’s a must-have for anyone seeking a festive treat that’s both enjoyable and memorable.
So, raise a glass to the holiday season and embark on a wine-filled adventure with Virgin Wines’ Mixed Wine Advent Calendar!
