Chef Wise

'Tis the season to drink Champagne and sparkling wine, and Wine Rack has a selection to suit everyone this Christmas. Whether it's ripe and rich, or delicate and light, there's plenty on offer for everyone in store or at www.winerack.co.uk . 2007 Champagne Prestige des Sacres Cuvée Grenat Was £34.99, Now £26.24 (until 5th Jan) Steeped in history, this tipple comes from the oldest vineyards in Champagne, which provided wines for the coronations of French Kings as far back as the ninth century. This 50% Chardonnay, 50% Pinot Noir blend undergoes four years of ageing to add complexity and depth of flavour. The high natural acidity in the northern vineyard in which it originates keeps it fruity and fresh. Tasting notes On the nose this wine offers rich brioche aromas, whilst on the palate it has hints of lemon peel and peach, with a zesty acidity. Goes well with…delicate festive canapés. Alternatively, experience the fine vintage flavour by enjoy

We Three Kings Il Borgo Condimento Box Set Of 3 Balsamic Vinegars Instead of brandy, why not try a splash of balsamic vinegar on your Christmas pud this year? Il Borgo's Red Label Condiment is rich, thick and sweet – the perfect alternative to brandy sauce and, what's more, it's delicious all-year-round as an accompaniment to strawberries, ice cream and or whatever takes your fancy. The Three Kings Box Set also contains a bottle of Il Borgo's yellow label balsamic vinegar, just the job for every day cooking, and a bottle of orange label - ideal to bring out the best in meat and fish. Beautifully packaged in a Festive red box, at £54.99, it's the ideal Christmas gift for those foodies in your life from www.foodhq.co.uk . In The Pink Another great gift, and a UK exclusive from www.foodhq.co.uk is the Picual Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Spain's Cortijo de Suerte Alta. Organic and rich in anti-oxidants, this sweet oil combines the aroma o

Olives Et Al Hampers Have A Nibble, A Nosh And A Night In This Xmas Not a mention of a Mint Thin or a hint of a tinned ham, Olives Et Al, the Dorset-based purveyors of particularly fine food, have created Christmas hampers that food lovers everywhere will relish. The 'Friends To Dinner' hamper is sure to be a huge hit for nibble lovers.  It's chock full of OEAs best sellers and all-time favourites, designed with the dinner party host in mind. It includes five assorted snacks and nibbles, two jars of olives, some rather good tapenade, a couple of marinades and some Posh Pricks to serve them. RRP £39 (saving of £9 on individual prices) The 'Night In' Hat Box is a box of snacks with a difference. Crammed full of taste and nothing artificial, there are five assorted, award-winning snacks which are just the thing for a quiet night in over the busy festive season.  Just add a movie and sofa buddy.  RRP £18 (£5 saving) 'The Grove'