Wine lovers across the UK are feeling the effects of this year’s new alcohol duty system. Since February 2025, duty has been charged by alcohol strength rather than a flat rate, meaning higher-ABV wines, especially reds from warmer climates, now cost more to import. Combined with inflation and supply pressures, it’s reshaping what “value” really means this Christmas.
At Vine & Wine, we believe value isn’t just about price; it’s about flavour, balance and craftsmanship per pound. We hand-select every wine on our site, from budget bottles to collector’s favourites, ensuring that each delivers exceptional character and quality at its price point.
So where can UK drinkers find real value this festive season? Wines with slightly lower alcohol levels — such as bright European whites and cooler-climate reds — have escaped the steepest duty rises. Look to South African wine of all colours, the occasional Aussie, southern French Grenache-based reds, and crisp English sparklings for the best balance of taste and affordability.
Here are a few stand-out picks from our 2025 Christmas selection:
- Henners Bruth NV (England) – Elegant, toasty and beautifully balanced. A home-grown sparkling that rivals Champagne at a friendlier price.
- Domaine G Saumaize “Les Belouzes”, Mâcon-Davayé, Burgundy (France) – This time of year call for richer white wines. Those from Burgundy are often necessarily expensive. This example ticks all the boxes for less than £25. Ripe, rich, structured and beautifully balanced.
- Waterkloof “Circumstance” Cabernet Franc, Stellenbosch (South Africa) – A classical, mineral, ripe Stellenbosch Cabernet Franc with the structure to stand up to richer Christmas dishes without fatiguing your palate. The South African Rand is your best friend
- Chateau La Tour Cordouan, Médoc, Bordeaux 2016 (France) – Toasty, vibrant, fresh scented claret. Good weight and structure. Proof that value does exist in Brodeaux at under £20.
- Lone Palm Vineyards Old Vine Grenache, Barossa Valley (Australia) – From vines nearly 100 years old. Fresh, black cherry and raspberry juice with heady, sweet cinnamon and clove on the nose – Christmas in a bottle
Each bottle in our range earns its place through taste, provenance and value, not volume buying or brand hype. As supermarkets compete on price, we focus on pleasure per pound ensuring that whether you spend £9 or £90, your wine delivers.
So this Christmas, skip the guesswork. Choose wines that are hand-picked for character, curated for balance, and priced for real enjoyment.
