3 Winter Winners from Sainsbury’s

Sainsbury’s really delivers this season, and I’m a big fan of their own-brand ‘Taste the Difference’ range. The quality has been consistently impressive, especially for the price, and whilst it’s hard to pick favourites, here are three bottles that stand out.

From beautifully aged English sparkling to small-production Pinot Noir and a generous southern French white, these wines feel crafted and thoughtful without stretching the budget.

Three very different wines, each delicious, great value, and ideal for festive entertaining.

Taste the Difference Ellercombe English Sparkling NV, £22

Made from chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot mernier and aged over four years on the lees. That’s a significant amount of time for an English wine and that give the wine the rich, creamy, apple crumble taste in a glass — honestly one of the best English sparkling’s you’ll find at this price.

Éminence de Bijou Pinot Noir, £14.50

Bijou isn’t just a French wine brand it’s a little collection of gems from Limoux, Languedoc, France. A thoughtful, sustainable, and elegant wine without ever feeling stuffy or expensive.

Bijou Pinot Noir — my festive fave:

Small-production Pinot Noir from the high-altitude vineyards of Limoux, southern France. Deep ruby, generous cherry fruit and a touch of spice from oak. Feels luxe. Fresh, balanced, liner and elegant with lovely tannins. This wine punches well above its price. Perfect with duck, lamb stew, or a festive cheese board.

The story behind Sophie Valrose:

The range is named after a real-life hero — a vineyard worker in the Languedoc in the late 19th/early 20th century. Sophie didn’t just tend the vines; she fought for the rights of women in the vineyards at a time when they were underpaid, overworked, and largely ignored. Her courage improved conditions for her fellow workers and made her a local legend.

Taste the Difference Languedoc Blanc 2024, £9.25

This is a white wine dressing up as a red wine.  A southern French blend of Grenache Blanc, Marsanne and Vermentino, this wine has more body and weight to enjoy in the colder days.  It’s fresh and aromatic with a delicious mid palette and reminds me of white chocolate – love it. Perfect with a hearty roast chicken.

Elizabeth x