The festive season has a way of softening the edges of time. Days blur into late lunches, evenings stretch into candlelit conversations and the clink of glass on glass becomes a familiar soundtrack. This year my holiday table became a tasting ground for an exclusive selection of wines and drinks available only at Pick n Pay retailers a curated mix of classic South African wines, celebratory MCC and clever modern formats that reflect how we’re increasingly choosing to drink. Slower, more considered and often wherever the moment finds us.
Papillon Mimosa
Festive mornings call for ease and elegance and Papillon’s Mimosa delivers exactly that. Light, citrus-forward and unapologetically joyful, it became a staple for Christmas morning and Boxing Day brunches. There’s a softness to the bubbles and a gentle sweetness that doesn’t overwhelm, making it ideal when the day is still young and the conversations are just warming up. It’s the kind of drink that doesn’t demand attention but earns affection quickly.
Hartenberg Chardonnay
There’s something grounding about pouring a serious Chardonnay during a season of excess. Hartenberg’s offering reminded me why restraint and balance matter. Rich but not indulgent, layered with stone fruit, gentle oak and a clean mineral finish, this was the wine that carried long lunches into early evening. It paired effortlessly with roast chicken, creamy sides and unhurried storytelling. A wine that invites you to sit back rather than rush ahead.
Avontuur Marydown Rosé
Rosé has become a festive essential and the Marydown Rosé from Avontuur struck a beautiful middle ground between freshness and structure. Pale, elegant and quietly confident, it worked just as well poolside as it did at the table. Notes of strawberry and rose petal kept things lively while a dry finish ensured it never felt frivolous. This was the bottle that disappeared fastest and not by accident.
Laborie NV Brut MCC
No festive season is complete without MCC and Laborie’s NV Brut proved itself a reliable celebration companion. Crisp, vibrant and generously bubbly, it carried Christmas lunch, sunset toasts and New Year’s Eve with ease. There’s a brightness here that lifts the mood instantly citrus, green apple and a fine mousse that feels both celebratory and refined. It’s the sound of corks popping and laughter following close behind.
Roodeberg Black
As evenings cooled and conversations deepened, Roodeberg Black took centre stage. Bold, layered and unapologetically rich, this is a wine made for fireside moments and late dinners. Dark fruit, subtle spice and a velvety finish gave it a comforting gravitas that felt perfectly timed for the season. It’s a wine that understands atmosphere and rewards patience.
Saronsberg Provenance Shiraz
Saronsberg’s Provenance Shiraz brought depth and drama to the festive line-up. Peppery, complex and beautifully structured, it was the bottle opened when the table quietened and the food became more serious. There’s confidence in this wine not loud but assured. It lingered long after the last sip and sparked the kind of conversations that only good red wine can.
Survivor Chenin Blanc
Chenin Blanc continues to prove its versatility and Survivor’s expression was a standout over the holidays. Fresh, textured and quietly expressive, it moved easily from daytime sipping to evening meals. Notes of pear, apple and a gentle acidity kept it vibrant while enough weight on the palate made it feel complete. A reminder of just how well Chenin fits into South African festive culture.
Beyond the bottle, this festive season also highlighted how convenience and innovation are reshaping how and where we enjoy our drinks.
High Ball – Whisky and Ginger Ale in a Can
Effortless and well-balanced, the High Ball can delivered exactly what it promised. No measuring, no mixing just a clean, refreshing serve that worked beautifully at outdoor gatherings and impromptu moments. It felt modern, unfussy and surprisingly polished. Ideal for when the setting is casual but expectations remain high.
Avante Cape Brandy
Crafted in collaboration with rugby legend John Smit, Avante Cape Brandy brought a sense of heritage and warmth to the table. Smooth, rounded and quietly powerful, it was best enjoyed slowly as the night settled in. There’s a confidence to this brandy that feels rooted in tradition while still looking forward. A fitting end to festive evenings.
Wines in Cans – Classic Routes
Canned wine has officially come of age and Classic Routes makes a strong case across its range. The Rosé was fresh and fruit-driven, the Merlot soft and approachable and the Sauvignon Blanc crisp and aromatic. These cans travelled easily from picnic blankets to beach sunsets without sacrificing quality. They felt liberating proof that format doesn’t have to dictate experience.
Taken together, this festive season’s drinks told a broader story. One of balance between tradition and innovation, indulgence and ease. Whether poured into crystal glasses or cracked open from a can, each moment was less about what we were drinking and more about who we were sharing it with. And that, ultimately, is what the festive table is all about.