There’s nothing better than kicking back and mingling over a delicious grazing spread with a cool drink to match.

The hardest part about putting together a lavish grazing spread is not eating everything while you compose it. Who can resist the allure of salty snacks, moreish cheeses, and zingy fresh fruits? Not us, that’s for sure. We asked Wine Merchant Paul Taylor from Dan Murphy’s Brighton for his recommendations on the best grazing drink matches for when you’re kicking back and snacking.

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Isabel Estate Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc with Goats Cheese

“People love sauvignon blanc because it’s so versatile. It’s an easy-drinking light, zesty, lively, and fruity wine that can be enjoyed on its own or pairs really well with so many foods. For grazing they match particularly well with goats cheese (sometimes labelled as chèvre) because it has that tangy acidity to it. A chilled bottle of Isabel Estate's Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc on a warm Christmas day would be a delight.”

James Squire Ginger Beer with Potato Chips

“This ginger beer is so refreshing and easy to drink. It would be great poured into a tall glass with some ice and a squeeze of lime. The ginger flavour is obvious but doesn't overpower the rest of the beer, which is great. I’d pair this one with anything salty and crispy, like potato chips for example.”

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The Whistler Irish Honey & Whiskey Liqueur with Chocolate-covered Pretzels

“There’s been a real interest in pairing up honey with dark spirits lately, it’s become quite popular. I think it’s because it’s so delicious and easy to sip. I would enjoy this one neat because it’s creamy and has an almost honeycomb flavour to it. Pairing it up with something chocolatey and biscuity that’s not too sweet would be good, even chocolate-covered pretzels would be great.”

Belvino Prosecco DOC Italy with Fresh Fruit

“This is a lovely prosecco from Italy, which is the home of prosecco. It’s dry and chills down really well and honestly would pair well with any food at any time. But I think on a warm summer afternoon enjoying a chilled glass of this prosecco and a platter of fresh summer fruits would be spectacular.”

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Fringe Societe Gamay with Charcuterie

“If I were to serve this lighter red on a warm day I would certainly be serving it chilled. It has a juicy quality to it, with flavours of ripe plums and cherries — perfect for Christmas. Being a lighter style red means it will pair really well with most cheeses across the board. And it would also drink really well with charcuterie and antipasto cured meats like prosciutto, salami, etc.”