For my third and final installment discussing Holiday wines and films, I have left my favorite Christmas film until last. It is the 1951 version of A Christmas Carol with the remarkable Alistair Sim as Ebenezer Scrooge. I have watched nearly every version of this story ( the Mr. Magoo cartoon version that you Baby Boomers may remember) but nothing touches Alistair Sims version. He is the most convincing as a mean old miser, a vulnerable and fragile old man fearing for his life, and as the giddy, jubilant survivor on Christmas morning.
If I were a true traditionalist, I would match A Christmas Carol with a fine Claret. The story takes place in England and although no specific wine is mentioned, we know wine is being drunk and most likely it’s Claret. By definition, true Claret was what the British called a Bordeaux blend usually made up of mostly cabernet sauvignon and merlot. I have opted for a California version - The Steltzner 2011 Claret which will fit the bill and put a smile on the biggest Humbugs.
This classic Bordeaux blend is made up of 64% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, and 23% Cabernet Franc and has blackberry, cherry, and floral notes followed by anise, mint and vanilla with hints of cedar box on the finish. It has smooth tannins and is very food friendly, particularly with lamb dishes or a traditional roast beef dinner.
Happy Holidays and cheers! I’ll be back blogging in the New Year.