Add some Californian sunshine to your Christmas and New Year with Apothic, a trio of very special red wines available in Ireland.

Inspired by the ‘Apotheca’, a mysterious place where ancient vintages were blended, Apothic Merlot, Apothic Red and Apothic Cab are crafted by Debbie Juergenson, an award-winning winemaker who combines Old World allure with modern sophistication.

“At Apothic we push boundaries to achieve the unexpected, from daring new blends to amplifying the uniqueness of a single-varietal wine,” Debbie said recently while talking to the influential Wineland magazine. “I strive to tell a story with each Apothic blend. Whether it’s one of drama, intrigue or romance, Apothic wines are truly original.”

At a full-bodied 13.5%, they’re great for sipping on their own at room temperature or pairing with a wide range of festive foods including your Christmas bird or veggie/vegan alternative.

A generous glug or two will add depth of flavour to any gravy and they’re also highly recommended if you’re looking to up your mulled wine game!

Just how versatile they are is evident from the Apothic.co.uk website, which in its fascinating blog section has recipes for Apothic red wine truffles, sangria and The Bishop, a winter warmer wine cocktail designed for sipping in front of a crackling fire.

As for which Apothic wine to choose this Christmas, save yourself the agony by picking up all three and deciding in leisurely fashion which one is your favourite.

In the meantime, here are the Hot Flavours tasting notes and food pairing suggestions. Sláinte!
apothic.com

Apothic Merlot

Plush, jammy and deep midnight blue in colour, this classic Californian Merlot proclaims itself to be “untamed and unbound” and more than lives up to the billing!

With lots of rich blackberry, vanilla and coconut notes – we’re talking serious summer dessert vibes! – and a velvety mouthfeel, it’s a veritable feast for the senses.

Food pairings: As well as being a faithful friend to cheeseboards –which should include such quality Irish farmhouse ones as Bellingham Blue, Cooleeney, Knockanore Oakwood Smoked Cheddar, Cáis Na Tíre and St. Tola! – and all types of charcuterie, we love our Apothic Merlot with venison and other game.

Apothic Red

A ruby red mix of Zinfandel, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, this is a riot of rich dark fruit, mocha, soft vanilla and other sweet spice flavours, which linger on the palette.

Food pairings: Works equally well with turkey, garlicky lamb, dark chocolate (preferably laced with chilli) and honey-glazed baked Camembert. Yum!

Apothic Cab

This luscious Cabernet Sauvignon, AKA King of the Grapes, has black cherry, plumb and other dark fruit notes; Apothic’s trademark layered aromas of vanilla; and a silky-smooth mouthfeel.

Christmas Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

100ml rum
30ml Apothic Cab
30ml lime
1 tsp of simple syrup

Method

1.Combine all of the ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
2.Shake well for 30 seconds to mix.
3.Strained the contents into a chilled coupe glass.
4.Sip with sinful simper.