As the chill of winter gives way to the first whispers of spring, there’s a renewed sense of warmth and celebration in the air. March brings us Mother’s Day, longer daylight hours, and the promise of al fresco gatherings just around the corner. Whether you’re treating your mum to something special, refreshing your drinks cabinet for the changing seasons, or looking for the perfect cocktail to sip as spring arrives, we’ve got just the thing.
This month, we’ll explore thoughtful Mother’s Day gifts, food and wine pairings, and perfect serves to transition smoothly into spring.
Mother’s Day: Toast to the Women Who Deserve It Most
Mother’s Day is all about showing appreciation, and what better way to say “thank you” than with a well-chosen bottle of something special? Whether she loves a classic Champagne toast, a refreshing gin cocktail, or a bold glass of red with dinner, Wine Rack has something that will make her day truly memorable.
A Toast to Mum: Champagne & Sparkle
There’s something timeless about raising a glass of Champagne on Mother’s Day—whether it’s served at brunch, alongside an indulgent dessert, or simply enjoyed in the evening as a moment of well-earned relaxation.
- Taittinger Brut NV: Light, crisp, and elegant, with notes of apple, citrus, and brioche. The perfect celebratory drink to pair with smoked salmon and scrambled eggs at a special Mother’s Day breakfast.
- Moët & Chandon Rosé NV: A delicate and fruity rosé Champagne, full of wild strawberry and raspberry notes. A beautiful choice for mums who love a touch of pink elegance, perfect alongside a light fruit tart or a soft goat’s cheese appetiser.
- Taittinger Prestige Rosé: Bursting with bright summer fruit flavours, this Champagne has a lively and refreshing finish. Try pairing with a fresh berry pavlova for a delightful treat.
Gift Idea: Make it extra special by gifting a bottle of Champagne with a set of elegant flute glasses—perfect for creating moments of indulgence beyond Mother’s Day.
The Classic Gin Serve
For mums who appreciate a well-made G&T, you can’t go wrong with a bottle of premium gin.
- Tanqueray Gin: With its balanced citrus and juniper flavours, Tanqueray is perfect for a classic gin and tonic—just add ice, a quality tonic, and a wedge of lime.
- Bombay Sapphire: A more floral, fragrant option, Bombay Sapphire shines in a refreshing gin spritz—mix with elderflower tonic and garnish with fresh mint and cucumber for a bright and elegant serve.
Cocktail of the Month: “The Grape Escape”
With spring comes a shift towards fresher, fruitier cocktails, and our Cocktail of the Month, “The Grape Escape,” is the perfect example. A refreshing twist on the classic Caipirinha, this cocktail uses Grey Goose Vodka, Martini Bianco, and fresh green grapes to create a beautifully crisp and slightly herbal drink.
How to Make “The Grape Escape”
Ingredients:
- 50ml Grey Goose Vodka
- 25ml Martini Bianco
- 6-8 fresh green grapes
- 10ml simple syrup
- Ice
Method:
- Muddle the green grapes in a cocktail shaker to release their juices.
- Add Grey Goose Vodka, Martini Bianco, simple syrup, and a handful of ice.
- Shake well, then strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a couple of extra grapes on a cocktail pick.
Perfect Serve: This cocktail works beautifully as a pre-dinner aperitif or alongside a light seafood dish, such as grilled prawns or a fresh salad with goat’s cheese.
Spring is Calling: The Beer of the Month
As we move into longer days and brighter evenings, there’s nothing quite like a crisp beer to mark the transition from winter to spring.
Budvar: A Czech Classic for the Changing Seasons
If you’re looking for something full-bodied yet refreshingly crisp, Budvar is a fantastic spring beer. With its clean malt character and subtle bitterness, it’s perfect for those first outdoor gatherings—whether it’s a casual BBQ, a picnic in the park, or just a chilled evening at home.
Pair It With:
- Grilled chicken or pork—the beer’s malty backbone enhances smoky flavours.
- A light but flavourful cheese platter—think gouda, edam, or a creamy brie.
- Classic pub snacks—salted pretzels, roasted nuts, or a charcuterie board.
Perfect Pairings: Wine & Food Simplified
Pairing wine with food doesn’t have to be complicated—but there are a few simple guidelines to help make sure you get the best out of both your meal and your drink.
A Few Simple Do’s and Don’ts
Do pair wines and dishes with complementary weight—light wines go with light dishes, while bold wines suit richer meals.
Do match acidity—zesty wines go well with fresh, tangy foods.
Don’t overwhelm a delicate wine with an overpowering dish.
Don’t serve high-alcohol wines with spicy food—it can intensify the heat.
Now, let’s put those tips to good use with some perfect pairings from our range.
A vibrant, fruit-forward rosé that’s perfect for alfresco dining. Pair it with grilled Mediterranean vegetables, seafood salads, or a fresh goat’s cheese tart.
Miguel Torres Andica Sauvignon Blanc
Zesty, aromatic, and full of citrus and tropical fruit, this Sauvignon Blanc is a dream with light, tangy dishes. Try it with grilled fish, sushi, or a fresh garden salad.
This Champagne is a go-to for celebrations, but it’s also a fantastic food wine. Its crisp, elegant bubbles make it ideal for oysters, smoked salmon, or delicate tempura dishes.
If you’re planning a hearty, meat-based meal, Septima Malbec is a fantastic pairing. Rich and full-bodied, it complements grilled steaks, roasted lamb, and even smoky barbecued dishes.
A Sweet Finish: The Perfect Serve with Dubliner Honeycomb Liqueur
For those with a sweet tooth, Dubliner Honeycomb Liqueur is a fantastic after-dinner treat. This smooth, golden liqueur has notes of rich caramel and sweet honeycomb, making it the perfect addition to a dessert course or a cosy night in.
How to Serve It
Neat over ice—enjoy its velvety texture and warming honeycomb sweetness.
In an Irish Coffee—add a splash to freshly brewed coffee and top with cream.
Drizzled over vanilla ice cream—a simple but indulgent dessert idea.
Find Your Local Store and Discover More
Spring is the season of renewal, and whether you’re celebrating Mother’s Day, hosting a spring gathering, or simply looking for the perfect drinks to enjoy at home, Wine Rack has you covered.
Visit our store locator to find your nearest Wine Rack and explore our fantastic range. And don’t forget to check out our latest offers for the best deals on your favourite drinks.
Discover more with Wine Rack. Cheers!