The Day of Two Portfolio Tastings

The wine industry rarely takes time off. It runs straight through the Christmas and New Year holidays, ensuring guests are happy during their festive celebrations.

Then, shortly after the new year, wine tasting season begins. Wine experts predict trends for the upcoming year, and wine groups and importers are excited to showcase the wineries they work with. In February, the global wine world has already seen Barcelona Wine Week and Wine Paris, and on Monday, 16th February, Irish/UK importers Liberty Wines and Bibendum Wine both held their annual portfolio tastings.

I planned to attend both and just put together a little carousel post on Instagram of some of my favourites. But with everything I tasted, I couldn’t narrow the list to fewer than eight categories.

For context, I tasted wines from some of my favourite producers, too, but I kept this list focused on wines I had never tried before.

Aside from my personal Picks of the Day for White, Red, Rosé, Champagne, and Sparkling (because I love bubbles), I also added a few categories for those with tastes different from my own. Best Starter White and Best Starter Red are great picks for those looking to explore wine, and my Best Alcohol-Free pick is for those seeking a non-alcoholic option.

Which one are you adding to your shopping list?

Best Starter White

Wild Earth Riesling | New Zealand | Liberty Wines

Bright, fresh, and effortlessly drinkable, this Riesling offers crisp citrus and orchard fruit with just a hint of sweetness. Balanced and refreshing, it’s an ideal introduction for anyone new to wine. Easy drinking without feeling overly simple.

Best Starter Red

Amalaya Malbec | Argentina | Liberty Wines

Soft, fruit-forward, and approachable, this Malbec delivers ripe dark berries with just a hint of peppery spice. Smooth tannins and excellent value make it a perfect starting point for anyone easing into red wine.

Best Alcohol Free

Copenhagen Sparkling Tea | Denmark | Bibendum Wine

You’ve truly never had anything quite like this before! Dry and beautifully effervescent, this blend of Jasmine, White, and Darjeeling teas offers complexity without alcohol. Elegant enough for celebrations, yet versatile enough to pair with dessert or enjoy as a sophisticated aperitif.

Sparkling of the Day

Arras Grand Vintage | Australia | Liberty Wines

Crafted in the traditional Champagne method but without the price tag, this Tasmanian Chardonnay/Pinot Noir blend is stunning. Layers of honey, brioche, and citrus deliver depth, finesse, and exceptional value in every bottle.

Champagne of the Day

Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve | France | Liberty Wines

Hands down my favourite Champagne of the day, and possibly my favourite to date. Rich, elegant, and beautifully layered, with notes of baked apple, brioche, and toasted nuts balanced by fresh citrus lift. It feels indulgent without being heavy. I’ll absolutely be opening a bottle of this for my upcoming anniversary.

White of the Day

Castel De Fornos Albariño | Spain | Bibendum Wine

A gorgeous Albariño that immediately transports you seaside. Crisp and vibrant, with bright citrus and white peach notes, and a lovely saline finish that makes it incredibly food-friendly. But honestly? I’d happily sip this chilled on its own.

Red of the Day

Amalaya Malbec | Argentina | Liberty Wines

I don’t usually gravitate toward Malbec, but this blend completely won me over. Fruit-forward and generous, with ripe dark berries, a touch of oak, and soft vanilla spice on the finish. Smooth and approachable, this is a fantastic value red that delivers far more than you’d expect for the price.

Rosé of the Day

Château Roubine Cru Classé | France | Bibendum Wine

The rep described this one as ‘fireworks,’ and I couldn’t agree more. This Provençal rosé brings a little extra intensity. Ripe stone fruit, strawberries, and beautiful freshness. It’s bright, expressive, and surprisingly great value for a Cru Classé.