Champagne styles to elevate your festive hamper this season

With the build up to Christmas in full swing, now is the perfect time to curate the ultimate festive hamper. One of the season’s most versatile gifts, hampers make the perfect present for friends and family, with each easily tailored to match tastes and personalities. As such, the Champagne Bureau UK has put together some suggestions of the best hamper fillings to pair with the ultimate drink of festivities and celebration, matching them to different Champagne styles.

For those with a sweet tooth

For those who prefer sweeter hampers filled with chocolates, shortbread and sweet breads, Champagne Demi-Sec is the perfect way to elevate the experience. The Champagne highlights the sweeter flavours of the festive season such as dried fruits, whilst the acidity and the bubbles refresh the palate.

For the cheese lover

Hampers filled with soft, nutty cheese’s such as Comté can be elevated by a bottle of Blanc de Noirs Champagne, made exclusively from dark grapes. The greater body, richness and depth of the Champagne stands up to the stronger flavours of festive cheeses, while the acidity prevents the cheese from feeling too heavy. The cranberry and cherry notes of the Champagne also pair well with the chutneys and preserves found in the hamper.

For those who can’t resist charcuterie

A non-vintage Brut Champagne is the perfect addition to festive hampers filled with lighter meats and cold cuts. Its dry, crisp character balances the saltiness of roasted and cured meats, while citrus and green apple notes enhance the flavour of turkey, ham and other cured meats.

For a fruity hamper

Rosé Champagne is the perfect addition to hampers filled with fruity treats. The Champagne’s wild berry notes and aromas of fresh citrus fruits and wild strawberries, pair wonderfully with hamper items such as sweet berry jams, fruit-infused teas and raspberry based cakes.

For the sophisticated individuals

Hampers filled with caviar and smoked salmon bellinis with crème fraiche can be elevated with a bottle of Vintage Champagne made exclusively from grapes harvested from a singular exceptional year. The wine’s depth, complexity, and refined structure complement the richness and salinity of the seafood, enhancing its texture while delivering an elegant finish to each bite.