17 SUNDAY MAIL • December 8, 2013 It’sChristmas A taste of what the festivities have to off er The rules of

T’S party season, and as we begin the long, Start calorie counting the canapés. The only way to survive the party tipsy, steadily accelerat- Iing downhill pinwheel season is to stick to the laws, says Nick Curtis towards Christmas, I have become aware of conversa- one else is pouring: I’m not ports that her plans for a on Miss Piggy’s diet - never protected to lessen their year, not just books and tions of a certain uniform opening a bottle myself,” Just-Say-November dis- eat more than you can lift,” shame when they inevitably organic fl apjack” and “not tone and timbre taking adds a third. solved midmonth in a vat of jokes Carmel Allen, the styl- fall off the wagon. They’re to feel sorry for myself on place among my friends “I’m allowing myself 30 prosecco. Another, that her ish and slender brand direc- all women. The Yule Rules Christmas morning when and colleagues. Ostensibly mince pies in the whole of plan for a 5:2 diet was tor of Heal’s, before going on of the men I know tend to be I don’t get exactly what I chummy, the chats have December, and if I eat them ruined by a William Cur- to detail a stringent regime different. My sister Rachel’s want: I’m 46,” and fi nally a combative, competitive all in one go, too bad,” says ley calendar. Ho- that involves porridge, ba- Danish husband Mads says “not to covet other people’s edge. These people, you a fourth, laying a lateral- meopath and entrepreneur nanas, Itsu Special Salmon, his Christmas rules are to New Year’s ski holidays or see, are comparing notes thinking trump card. Which Celia Gray apparently just and alternating each glass resist the pressure to buy trips to the Maldives”. on soirée survival guides, prompts the second speaker keeps Mondays booze-free of with mineral my nieces and nephew ever- Calorie-counting and drunkenness disciplines, to raise her game and up the in December. (As an aside, water. It also involves her more expensive gifts, in or- unit monitoring don’t get a canapé regimes. They’re stakes: she only ever drinks der to leave more cash for mention, you’ll notice. For constructing complex algo- one glass of mulled ; adult carousing. “No rules blokes, Christmas is a time rithms involving calories, she makes sure she only ‘My Rules of Yule are based on Miss at Christmas, that’s my only for blowouts and booze-ups alcohol units and quantums goes out in December with rule,” says Tom Rollett, who - that’s the point of it. As of potential shame. They’re friends who are “in synch” runs sporting collectables the restaurant critic Giles comparing their respective (ie who also want to be at Piggy’s diet - never eat more than you company Exclusive Memo- Coren pointed out, Yuletide Rules of Yule and there’s an home in bed by 10pm); she rabilia. “Although from De- is the only time of the year element of one-upmanship tries to “create a varied can- can lift’ cember 1, I listen every day you eat roast turkey, mince involved. apé meal at parties, rather to The Christmas Song by pies, , “I’m only allowing myself than standing near the ones Nat King Cole.” etc: so why on earth would two schoolnights out for with the highest carb con- shouldn’t a homeopath be young daughter Josephine: John McNally, screenwrit- you want to change that? parties a week,” says one tent”; and she forces herself able to survive on a mere pi- “The best party controller is er and author of the forth- Similarly, when given a li- colleague. “Me too, and if I to drink three pints of water pette-droplet of champagne childcare.” coming Infi nity Drake series cence to party, you should do a third I don’t allow my- before bed. dissolved in water?) One thing unites all those of novels, says his rules are embrace it. My own Rule self to drink,” offers another. Not everyone’s regime Others are more rigorous. quoted above - even those to buy his kids “at least one of Yule? It’s Christmas: it “I’m only drinking if some- is so strict. One friend re- “My Rules of Yule are based whose identities have been crap electronic gift each doesn’t count. 18 It’sChristmas December 8, 2013 • SUNDAY MAIL Cost of ‘’ gifts leaps in 2013

BUYING a set of the gifts named in 1984 have averageded 2.9 per in the classic holiday carol ‘The cent, the same numbermber as Twelve Days of Christmas’ will cost the US infl ation index.ex. a true love $27,393 this year, up 7.7 The only bit of savingsavings per cent from the 2012 price tag, on the carol’s gift lilistst according to an annual tongue-in- this year comes fromom cheek analysis released this week. a 3.2 per cent dropop Prices for most of the items in in price for the par-r- the song, including the partridge, tridge’s pear tree,ee, two turtle doves, three French which costs $184, thehe hens and fi ve gold rings, remained company said. steady from last year. The overall pricee But the cost for 10 lords-a-leaping increase is the larg-g- jumped 10 per cent to $5,243 and est since 2010, whenn nine ladies dancing increased by the index rose 9.2 perer 20 per cent to $7,553, PNC Wealth cent. Management’s Christmas Price In- savsav-- dex showed. ings may save Christmastmas The company said its sources for days but not money,y, PNC calculating the cost of the items Wealth Managementnt sasaid.id. include retailers, the National Avi- Buying one set of tthehe giftgiftss ary in Pittsburgh, the Philadelphia online would costt aalmostlmost Dance Company and the Pennsyl- The cost for ten lords-a-leaping jumped ten per cent $39,763, or $12,300 mmoreore than vania Ballet. making the purchasesses in person. “We were surprised to see such aging executive for investments The US government’s Consumer True loves intent onn a real splursplurgege a large increase from a year ago, of PNC Wealth Management. “But Price Index increased only 1 per will pay $114,651 in stores for the The partridges gigivenven ththee overaoverallll benignbenign ththee ddancersancers iinn ththee iindexndex took a cent for the 12 months through 364-gift tally that amasses fromfrom pear tree was the iinflnfl ationation raterate in the huge leap this yearr to plplayay catch September. the traditional singingging repetition only item that saw UnUnitedited SStates,”tates,” sasaidid uupp ffromrom palpaltrytry iincreasesncreases tthehe YYear-over-yearear-over-year increasesincr since of all the carol’s verses,rses tthehe aanaly-naly- a saving this year JiJimm Dunigan,Dunigan, man- prevpreviousious ffewew yyears.”ears.” tthehe ChrChristmasistmas PrPriceice Index began sis showed. Soar On Raw: A delicious journey through world mythology

THISTH BEAUTIFUL book will be adored by lov- also offers a weekly menu plan, shopping list and ersers of tasty, healthy recipes and is a delicious gift buffet ideas, including children’s parties. forfor the festive season. The other wow factor about the book is that WWith 100 fresh, vegetarian recipes - from salads, each recipe has been inspired by a god or god- Sensational handcrafted smoothiessm and juices, to main meals, breads, dess from World Mythology so there’s a little biscuits and desserts - this book is a must for story accompanying each creation alongside the anyone seeking to enjoy their food and still lose nutritional benefi ts. The book has already en- weight whilst gaining energy, mental alertness joyed success and since its release in July 2013, it chocolates in Paphos and a host of other health benefi ts. Soar On Raw has featured in newspapers, magazines and very soon on Cypriot television. IF YOU are a chocolate lov- It includes Wild Thyme and you wouldn’t know from the Whether for yourself or for loved one, invite er, Joulietta’s handcrafted , Basil and , Co- taste. Zeus’ Cabbagecopia, Pachamama’s Pure Pizza chocolate shop in Paphos is a riander and Lemon, Mint and These chocolates are beau- and Aphrodite’s Sexy Tidings into your life and must visit. Honey, Lavender and Honey, tifully wrapped and make a discover the divine you! Joulietta attended the Barry and Rose. These traditional perfect, luxury gift suitable Callebaut Chocolate Acade- herbs are subtly blended with for any occasion. Why not my in Belgium and graduated high quality origin chocolate pamper yourself? Box sizes Soar On Raw can be bought from its offi cial with honours. She has now and look as amazing as they include 6, 8, 12, or 16 truffl es, site www.soaronraw.com and, throughout used her expertise to create taste. and a luxury assortment in the festive season, with every purchase of a divine range of handcrafted The chocolates are preserva- 200g, 300g and 500g boxes. the book, customers are gifted with two luxury chocolates with the tive free and use local, natural Come and see the choco- handmade Christmas raw chocolate truffl es. fl avours of Cyprus. ingredients. No-added sugar lates being made at Jouliet- Her signature chocolate is chocolates are also avail- ta’s Handcrafted Chocolate The site also provides a list of stockists. the Cypriot Doubleuble Delight.Delight. ableable for thosethose anand Patisserie shop located Available in Bergamotrgamot and witwithh specifispecifi c bbetween the new Lidl and Rose, this creationation com-com- hehealthalth rre-e- TTime Out Kiosk. (Visit www. bines Cypriot DelightDelight with ququirements,irements, jojoulietta.com to check the a smooth, ganacheche base en-en- aalthoughl t hough mmap) Enjoy a fi lter coffee with cased in crisp choco-choco- a selection of chocolates or a late to give youou a ddelicious patisserie. unique and lavishvish taste experience.e. Call Joulietta on 99 316525, The Garden ofof visit her web site at www. Cyprus rangege has to be tasteded joulietta.com or like her on to be believed.ed. Facebook: jouliettachocolatier 19 SUNDAY MAIL • December 8, 2013 It’sChristmas 20 atasteofChristmas December 8, 2013 • SUNDAY MAIL It’sChristmas It’s Christmas For snacks with a great taste For over 40 years Snack has been producing a range of cold meats and deli items

INCE 1976 Snack sau- standards of quality and hy- plemented. prus products lountza, hi- In recent years, the compa- reducing daily salt intake sages and meat prod- giene. At all production stag- The primary aim of Snack romeri, Cyprus sausages, ny has invested in machines by adults, many Snack meat ucts have enriched es, from the selection of the meat products was and re- products for sandwiches of the latest technology to products had their salt con- Sthe tasty choices for purest ingredients, process- mains the satisfaction of all such as ham, turkey fi llet, meet its continuously in- tent reduced by 10 per cent. families with savoury and al- ing, packing to delivery, in- the different needs of their bacon, mortadella and vari- creasing needs in produc- This became possible with ways quality temptations. ternational certifi ed quality customers. Thus, the list of ous other specialised prod- tion, but also to secure a the new pioneering technol- Snack meat products are management systems (ISO products includes a large ucts such as Italian coppa, higher quality level in its ogy Fresher Under Pressure, famous for their delicious 9001) and hygiene and secu- number of different kinds, black forest, pastrami, honey products. Furthermore, the that allows SNACK products taste, but also for the high rity of food (HACCP) are im- such as the traditional Cy- ham and many others. daily control of the manufac- tured products by the Qual- ity Control Department and the continuous training of A few months the staff, guarantee that only the best products end up in later the company your plates! In 2010, Snackfood made a signifi cant step in upgrading opens its first its premises with the con- struction of a new building delicatessen, on Pangratiou street in Stro- volos industrial area. called Snack Deli. The new, modern building Snack Deli is a high standard delicatessen, created exclusively to offer only the best quality deli products

is built with high standards to retain their freshness for a of functionality, safety and longer period of time, with- hygiene. A few months later out losing any of their won- the company opens its fi rst derful taste! delicatessen, called Snack The new line of Snack pre- Deli. Snack Deli is a high packed or deli meat products standard delicatessen, cre- with 10 per cent less salt is ated exclusively to offer only the best choice for everyone the best quality deli prod- following a balanced diet. ucts. Enjoy them fresh and deli- In a modern and stylish en- cious, from the moment you vironment, one can choose open the package to the very from a wide variety of freshly last slice! cut products or from a selec- tion of packaged goods as well. There is also the pos- Snack products can be sibility to order unique plat- found in supermarkets, ters of cold cuts and cheeses all over Cyprus when havingng guestsguests atat home or during busi-busi- ness meetingstings at the offioffi ce.ce. Snack DeliDeli also offers freshfresh sandwichess andand salads duringduring lunch time.. In 2011, fol-fol- lowing thee ten- dencies off con-con- temporary diet that suggestsuggests 21

SUNDAY MAIL • December 8, 2013

Bargains of all sorts

THE fi rst indoor Flea Market of Nicosia is now a fact. The Flea Market of Nicosia is a place to buy, sell or exchange new and used goods. It is located in the SOPAZ area, opposite the Industrial zone of Nicosia and is open every weekend between 10am and 7pm. No en- trance fee is required, with spacious parking, kids playground with bouncy castles, besides a cosy cafeteria, where everyone can take a break from the “treasure hunting”. The fi nancial crisis is forcing us to change our habits and look for bargains! Anyone, consumers, traders and bargain hunters are looking for opportunities of buying or selling products at affordable and attractive prices. There are over 50 exhibitors with a wide vari- ety of products such as antiques, collectibles, electronics, appliances, household items, toys, books, furniture, clothes, shoes and many oth- er accessories or gadgets at the Flea Market of Nicosia. Exhibitors/traders may be anyone who wish- es to sell goods. The exhibitor/trader can rent his/her own booth (space) for a single day or for a weekend or for a longer period. Any mer- chandiser/importer who has old stock in the warehouse or other citizens who are in posses- sion of objects, appliances and other items in good condition which are no longer required have the opportunity to dispose of their goods at the Flea Market of Nicosia. Even those who have the talent and the abil- ity to make handmade jewellery, ornaments, bags, dolls, candles, sweets and other unique creations now they have the chance to sell them by setting up their own “shop” within the spacious Flea Market of Nicosia, at very low rent cost. Arts and crafts are welcome. For more details, Tel: 99 678569, 22 432478, fl eamarket@sazeides. com.cy Location address: 2, Yiannis Koromias in Kaimakli. You can also fi nd us on Facebook.

NOW AVAILABLE 2014 Gift catalogue

chocolates la Maison du Vin Limassol: Ayiou Athanasiou 49, Linopetra, 25736220 Nicosia: 37 Kennedy Ave., 22442235 wine storage cabinets www.LaMaisonDuVin.com.cy 22 It’s Christmas December 8, 2013 • SUNDAY MAIL A Christmas made easy at Gina’s Place, Paphos Fabulous, festive, feasty food gift ideas starting from €3.50!

GINA’S PLACE Deli-Café, the well-established food em- porium is offering an array of fresh artisan cheeses, meats and pates on platters or in vintage wine box hampers as all year round gifts for the more ‘foody-minded’ people. blue cheeses accompanied ‘Cos “I LOVE HIM!” “These types of gifts make with our homemade onion Porcelain truckle of aged a fantastic change to M&S chutney EUR 13.OO stilton, late vintage port, as- socks and knickers which sorted biscuits for cheese, most of us (of a certain age), FRENCH PATE PLATTER miniature get for Christmas,” says Gina. A selection of smooth, pudding and 65% Costa Rican In fact, Gina’s is swamped coarse, and terrine pate ac- chocolate thins EUR 40.00 with these gift-requests all companied with spiced cran- the year round as Thank berry and apple relish EUR ‘Cos “SHE’S Yous, birthdays, anniversaries 18.00 Half bottle Mandois Cham- etc. The discerning younger pagne, pack of oak-smoked, clientele are even ordering INTERNATIONAL sliced Scottish salmon, and a bespoke hand made Belgium A selection of hams, Chees- box of artisan handmade Bel- chocolates for their teachers. es and salamis accompanied gium chocolates EUR 50.00 “In fact we have been ac- with aged balsamico and cepting credit card telephone extra virgin olive oil dipping There are many orders from as far away as marinade EUR 16.00 South Africa and Singapore,” choices of bespoke says Gina. GLUTEN FREE GOODIES gifts so call us or pop Here are just a few of the se- A selection of ‘medically in for a coffee. lections we have created for a approved’ gluten, wheat perfect and Happy Christmas. and lactose free products. GINA’S PLACE – Pasta, crackers biscuits, DEDICATED TO CHEESE PLEASE PLATTER fruit cake, sliced bread, loaf GOOD FOOD! COMBO and coffee biscuits EUR 35 A selection of soft, hard and .00

Christmas Packages All Inclusive 2 NIGHTS EURO DOUBLE ROOM 2 ADULTS €320

3 NIGHTS DOUBLE ROOM 2 ADULTS €420

2 NIGHTS STUDIO-FAMILY ROOM enjoy our 2 ADULTS christmas 2 CHILDEN €450 3 NIGHTS creations STUDIO-FAMILY ROOM 2 ADULTS 2 CHILDREN €585 Sarah Lyne Cake Shop, established since 1982. You can count on us! All New Year Packages your Christmas needs found under one roof: traditional English moist All Inclusive and boozy , mouth-watering mince pies, sweet and 1 NIGHT DOUBLE ROOM savoury nibbles, pies, mini savoury quiches and 2 ADULTS €220 other delectable treats. Make sure you place your order well in advance. 2 NIGHTS We pride ourselves on unparalleled product quality. DOUBLE ROOM 2 ADULTS €360

1 NIGHT STUDIO FAMILY ROOM 2 ADULTS 2 CHILDRENS €285

2 NIGHTS Cyprotel Cypria Maris, STUDIO-FAMILY ROOM P.O.BOX 60456, 08127 Paphos, 2 ADULTS Cyprus 2 CHILDREN €470 Tel: (+357) 26 96 41 11 Fax: (+357) 26 96 41 25 Email: [email protected] FOR MORE PACKAGES Find us on Facebook PLEASE CONTACT Sarah Lyne Cake Shop, 29C Arch. Kyprianou, Nicosia. Tel. 22514550 THE HOTEL 23 SUNDAY MAIL • December 8, 2013 It’sChristmas

Celebrate Christmas & the New Year in style at the Tree restaurant with our special seasonal set menu’s and live music! A true Mediterranean gem HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS WITH OUR SET MENU

Lobster Bisque Beef rolls stuffed with brie cheese on a mixed green salad with ranch dressing Fillet steak with honey reduction & seasonal mediterranean vegetables OR Miso Salmon & citrus soy dipping sauce served with a choice of twice cooked chips or mash potato ALMOND Tree restaurant is not your average kind of restaurant in Paphos. It’s well loved by Baked cheesecake with a duo of fruit coulis locals, sought out by tourists and always of- Petit fours & coffee fers something a little bit different, it’s some- START 2014 IN STYLE WITH OUR thing special. €32 per person SPECIAL NEW YEAR’S EVE SET MENU The restaurant fi rst opened in 1995 as a tra- ditional local tavern but the current owner and Head Chef, Andreas Michaelides, took Curried coconut & carrot soup over from his mother fi ve years later when he returned from Miami University. Teriyaki glazed beef over mixed greens with Over the years Andreas has developed the miso dressing restaurant into the well-loved, fi ne dining international restaurant that you see today. Fillet steak with tarragon butter & seasonal Many of the dishes are infl uenced from his training in Miami and his passion for mod- mediterranean vegetables ern Asian fl avours; such as the Key West This December there are two special eve- OR Crab Cakes with Thai red coconut curry nings planned; on Christmas Eve and New sauce or the Asian marinated pork loin with Year’s Eve. Both evenings include sumptuous Oven baked five spiced duck breast with fi ve spiced apples. four course set menus ranging from €32pp to cranberries & jus served with mash potato On the menu there is a variety to choose €38pp and live music on New Year’s Eve. The from with steaks to seafood and classics with a la carte winter menu will also be available Key lime pie with fruit coulis a modern such as the double cut stuffed so there is plenty to choose from, all you have Petit fours & coffee pork chop or the miso-marinated salmon. The to do is book, then relax and enjoy the festivi- restaurant also offers an impressive wine list, ties. €38 per person seasonal specials and live music nights. Almond Tree is a family owned and run res- PLEASE BOOK EARLY TO taurant catering towards families serving only For more information AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. 5, Konstantias Street the fi nest and freshest local quality ingredi- Tel: 99 513863 or visit Kato Paphos ents. www.facebook.com/almondtree. 5 NORMAL WINTER MENU If you don’t believe us check the reviews on Tel: 26935529 / 99513863 Trip Advisor for yourself, a true Mediterra- Konstantias Street, Paphos ALSO AVAILABLE. nean gem. 24 It’sChristmas December 8, 2013 • SUNDAY MAIL Maverick: new multicolour Dazzle with style fabulous desserts If you don’t want Christmas pudding try one of these instead

WhiteWhite Chocolate Cheese- sugar really gently in a small cake saucepan until the sugar dissolves. Keep stirring. ServesServe 10 Add the softened gelatine and the vanilla and stir until 165g digestive biscuits, the gelatine has dissolved. crushedcrushe Leave it to cool. THE best sellingelling col- sstainlesstainless ststeelteel bbrace-race- 65g butter,bu melted •Meanwhile, melt the choc- lection of Swisswiss com- let and twtwowo colours colours For the th fi lling olate in a bowl over a pan of pany Victorinoxnox Swiss as well asa rubber 6 leaves gelatine simmering water. Whizz up Army - the MaverickMaverick - rere-- bracelebracelet.t. IItt iiss abrasion 500g half-fat crème fraiche the ricotta in a food proces- mains true to its rebellious resistant sapphire crystal 100g caster sugar sor until smooth and add the nature, and the new models with triple anti-refl ective 2tsp vanilla extract melted chocolate and the do not alter the design of treatment, while the lid is 100g white chocolate, cream mixture. Pour over their predecessors but have screwed on. chopped the biscuit base and place in been updated with new, The unidirectional rotat- 250g ricotta cheese the fridge to set, overnight. bold colours. ing bezel is made of lac- Chocolate curls, gold dra- •Carefully remove it from The new timepiece pre- quered steel. The dial has gees and edible glitter (op- the tin the next day (a hot sented at this year’s Basel- military time, around the tional) cloth around the edge of the world comes in four new ver- hour display, and date win- cake tin will help it to loosen sions and in four different dow at 6. The watch runs •Mix together the biscuits easily) and place on a cake colours: chocolate brown, on Swiss Ronda 705 quartz and butter and press into stand and decorate. 300ml milk 300ml fresh cream green, blue and red and a movement and is water re- the base of a greased, 18cm 1tsp vanilla extract 12 pink macaroons harmonious monochrome. sistant to 100m. round springform cake tin. 6 large egg yolks The updated collection of Pop into the freezer while Raspberry and Muscat 75g caster sugar •Place the cream, milk and Maverick, staying true to its Exclusive distributor you make the fi lling. 2tbsp cornfl our vanilla extract in a medium roots, is aimed at men and •Soak the gelatine leaves Trifle 24 sponge fi ngers saucepan and bring almost women since the frame has Eurotimer in cold water until really Serves 10 10tbsp Muscat dessert wine to the boil. Place the egg a diameter of 43mm and [email protected] soft – around 5 minutes. 450g raspberries yolks, sugar and cornfl our 34mm and comes with a Heat the crème fraiche and 300ml fresh cream For the topping in a bowl and mix well. Pour 25 SUNDAY MAIL • December 8, 2013 It’sChristmas Sommeliers’ Christmas crackers Experts share their tips on how to make Christmas a truly sparkling occasion

ommeliers have to make want to chill the drink and not wa- ruby colour with purple hints. The Penfolds BIN 28 Kalimna Shiraz suggestions for a living so ter it down). Pour in the Prosecco bouquet is rich and intricate, earthy 2009 from South Australia, €25 (La what’s one more little sug- and then top with Aperol. Add the dominated by leather and cherry Maison du Vin) Sgestion - for instance, to soda water. Stir gently until mixed. aromas, with a peppery and To be enjoyed by: Savvas Papatho- suggest to you what to drink over Garnish with an orange slice (either plumy background. This is a gen- mas, Restaurant Manager/Head Christmas. add slice of orange, twisting to re- erous wine, full-bodied and chewy, Sommelier, Four Seasons Hotel lease some juice and placing in the robust with a velvety taste. Vanilla, Limassol 2007 Marques de Murrieta Ygay glass or simply use orange slice as wood, mocha and toffee hints with a A well-balanced wine overfl owing Reserva, Rioja, Spain €25 (Maison garnish). Add some physalis fruit in long persistence of aromas with black fruits and smooth tan- du Vin) your plate. nins, a perfect match with Peking on the hot cream, stirring To be enjoyed by: Alissa Gorchin- 2008 Château Phelan Segur, Saint duck wrapped in pancakes with hoi continuously. Pour back into skaja, Head Sommelier Paphos Am- 2011 Matua Pinot Noir Marlborough Esthéphe, Bordeaux, €35- sin sauce. This exotic Shiraz has a the saucepan and cook on a athus New Zealand, €16 (La Maison du €45 deep garnet-purple colour, the 2010 gentle heat until the custard Alissa takes to Spain and in par- Vin) To be enjoyed by: Iraklis Christo- Kalimna Bin 28 Shiraz presents has thickened. Do not allow ticular to Rioja. “I like this wine To be enjoyed by: Stalo Arambatzi, phorou, president of Cyprus Som- lovely, expressive blueberry, black to boil, or the custard will because it is a perfect combination Head Barwoman and Sommelier, meliers raspberry and black cherry notes split. Strain the custard into of beautiful deep cherry colour, big Four Seasons Hotel, Limassol Opts for the classic combina- highlighted by violets, toast, cin- a clean bowl, cover the sur- spicy nose, fl eshy red fruits, silky Stalo describes her choice per- tion of claret and roast turkey and namon stick and a touch of mul- face with clingfi lm and leave tannins on the palate and long fectly: “Like a good marriage, wine this should be easily accessible in berries. Full-bodied and rich, the to cool. chocolate fi nish. The perfect match and food were meant for each other. most wine shops. This is a classic concentrated fruit is framed by •Soak half the sponge fi n- for a lot of Christmas dishes,” says Christmas has always been about Bordeaux with a nose of cassis and medium levels of rounded tannins, gers in half the dessert wine Alissa. creating happy moments with complex ripe fruit, followed by fi ne crisp acidity and a long, classically- until just soft and place in The legendary Ygay property is lo- friends and families and enjoying secondary aromas of a smoky note. styled fi nish. the bottom of a trifl e dish. cated at an altitude of 500m in the traditional foods from around the Well-balanced and structured, rich Scatter over 175g raspber- heart of the Rioja Alta. The 2007 is world. My choice of wine for this fes- and full bodied with a silky quality 2007 La Crema Pinot Noir, Sonoma ries and pour over the cold a blend of Tempranillo and Maz- tive season has to be based on good that is very seductive and with ripe Coast, USA, €27 custard. Repeat same pro- uelo. After fermentation in stainless quality and a budget for each indi- tannins, this wine has an enjoyably To be enjoyed by: Vinocultura’s cedure with another layer of steel the wine has been allowed to vidual. Due to the hard economical long and elegant fi nish. Managing Director /Sommelier An- sponge fi ngers and raspber- age in barrique for 31 months, of times we have been through this dreas Kyprianou ries. which nearly a third has been spent year this bottle of pinot noir is per- Commandaria Kyperounda 2004, “I believe that this is a wine that •Lightly whip the cream to in new barrels. It is an excellent vin- fect. The nose has subtle and earthy €15 can make oenophiles in Cyprus have soft peaks and spread over tage borne out by the quality of the scents that burst with aromas of To be enjoyed by: Miroslav Kalinic, an ‘A-ha’ moment for what Pinot the top of the trifl e and chill fruit, the pedigree of the aromas and cherries, dried cranberries and hints Restaurant Manager/Sommelier, Le Noir is all about. Enticing with layers for at least 2 hours. theength on the palate. Earth, spice of spices, , and dark Meridien Limassol of beautiful aromas of fresh Morello •To serve, place the maca- and black cherry dance with dexter- chocolate. A well structured wine A unique single vintage recently cherries, violets and black licorice. roons around the edge of ity over the palate, and there is great with velvety tannins that would released in the market; a Xynis- Vibrant red plum and cranberry join the trifl e dish and pile the fi nesse and charm on the fi nish. Just complement a traditional Christ- teri Commandaria from Ayias Ma- in on the palate, with notes of remaining raspberries in the starting to drink, good for a decade mas turkey seasoned or wrapped in mas matured in oak casks is a bal- leaves, orange and cocoa. Food centre. Serve immediately. or two. pancetta with a beautiful and tasty anced wine with intense aromas of Pairing: Ideal with white meats like wild mushroom stuffi ng. Or perhaps caramel, raisin and fi g that shows roast chicken and pork, but it’s 2001 Valdobbiadene Zardetto Pros- roe deer with glazed chestnuts and the potential of unfortifi ed Com- unique balance of acidity/alcohol/ ecco Superiore Brut D.O.C.G Vene- wild forest berries sauce. The best mandaria (13%). I choose this wine fruit makes a fantastic pairing with to, €14 things to pair with a Pinot Noir wine because it is one of the oldest wine the sizzling fatty lamb chops (souvla To be enjoyed by: Vasos Manoli, and a good dish are the people that appellations in the world, unfortu- style) fresh off the grill. Manager/Head Sommelier Risto La you love and why not start with a nately here in Cyprus it is forgot- Piazza Paphos good wine that matches everybody’s ten or more precisely neglected. 2009 Methy K&K Kathikas Winery, Actually we have two recommenda- budget. Merry Christmas. Wine with exceptional quality that Pafos G.I. Cyprus, €12 tions from Vasos, but fi rst the Pros- is known throughout the world and To be enjoyed by: George Kassian- ecco - a great deal! Fun and fruity, 2008 Ktima Alpha Estates Reserve mentioned and used as one of the os, Cyprus Mail wine writer a great hostess for the Christmas Old Vines, Amyndeo, Greece, €25.50 best dessert in the world in The legend continues with its party. A blend of 95% Prosecco and (La Maison du Vin) almost every competition, whether new vintage, which I must admit 5% Chardonnay, the colour is crystal To be enjoyed by: George Zaha- it’s wine evaluation competitions or it is one of his best. Vibrant ruby clear with a hearty white foam and roglou, F&B/Sommelier, Le Meri- the best sommelier competitions. colour, damsons, fi ne perlage. Fresh fragrant aromas, dien Limassol For the Christmas table it is the and bright red cherry, spice and here the fruit tends towards ripe “I picked this wine because since best wine for dessert that usually herbal notes on the nose. The yellow peaches, white fl owers, spic- it’s Christmas I would like to recom- consists of Kourabiedes (small al- palate highlights the red cherry, es and minerals that add complex- mend a Cypriot or Greek wine that mond cakes coated in icing sugar), blackcurrant and raspberry com- ity. Delicately soft and harmonious, fi ts the tradition. It is winter and at my favourite Melomakarona (small ponents along with notes of spice Nutty Meringue Cake this quintessential aperitif wine has this time we tend to drink more red cinnamon and orange fl avoured and minerality. These characteris- Serves 8 a long fi nish, generous and nicely wines. Also Xinomavro is a heavy cakes dipped in honey), lots of dif- tics are accented by bright acid- balanced. Vasos suggests to enjoy grape, defi nitely perfect with food. ferent dry fruits and . One ity, integrated tannins and struc- 4 egg whites this on the table with the Amuse Decanting it is essential. I would good Commandaria contains in its ture. The elegant but generous 225g caster sugar Bouche or with canapé with smoked recommend it with roast turkey infi nite fl avours all the characteris- mouth feel exhibits a rich velvety 3tbsp fi nely chopped pista- salmon and Mascarpone cheese. Or stuffed with sun-dried tomato and tics of dried fruits and desserts and texture that coats the mouth and chios, plus extra to serve try the Aperol Spritz… simply fi ll a wild mushroom This is an excellent therefore I suggest the one made lingers on to a long layered finish 285ml fresh cream glass (highball glass or choice, a blend of Syrah, Merlot and by Kyperounda winery as a perfect brilliantly incorporating all of the 250g chestnut spread glass) 1/4 full with ice cubes (you Xinomavro. It has a bright, deep match. componentp elements. 125g berries Silver dragees edible silver glitter – option- al

•Heat the oven to 140C/gas •Whisk the egg whites until stiff, add the sugar, 1tbsp at a time, until you have a stiff, glossy meringue. •Trace out 3 x 20cm circles on baking parchment, and stick parchment to 2 bak- ing sheets using a little me- ringue. Divide the meringue between the circles, spoon- ing on and levelling with a spatula. Scatter the pista- chios over each meringue circle. Bake in the oven for 1 hour 30 minutes. Switch off the oven and leave for a fur- ther hour. •To assemble the cake, whip the cream until it holds its shape. Put the chestnut spread in a small bowl, add 3tbsp of the cream to it, and mix in. Put the fi rst meringue on a cake stand, add half the chestnut mix and half the cream, top with another me- ringue and repeat and then add the fi nal meringue. Add a pile of berries, the dragees, glitter and extra pistachios and serve. 26 It’sChristmas DecemberDecembberr 8,8, 20132013 • SUNDAYSUNDAY MAILMAIL So this is Christmas? Kat’sat’s sasalmonellalmonella Two thousand miles, ten sisters and four birthdays. For Lucy struckuck just as we werere headheadinging intoo tthehe MMo-o- Hunter Johnston, every Christmas is a logistical nightmare roccanccan AAtlastlas Mountains;o untains; andd anoanotherther and this year is no diff erent. She maps her marathon week in a wherehere aatt leleastast fourur ooff us had crushesushes on tthehe bid to spread her cheer evenly sameme boy and DON’T have anything weren’tren’t speakspeak-- against Christmas. I’ve ingg by the teared up at all the right timeme we fl ew Imoments in this year’s backck homehome.. festive adverts. In fact, if PPre-Skype,re-Sky pe, it was socially acceptable, I rremem-emem- I’d listen to Wham! all year berr ttearfulearful round, and I actually like eat- phoneone cacallslls ing sprouts. The diffi culty on Christmas is that I come from a rather morning, and there were 10.30am, convinced a Mc- large family. some mega rows over wheth- Chicken sandwich was the I am one of ten sisters, and er the tree should have only thing that would cure we range in age from 15 to and what time dinner should my hangover. Warning: nev- 40; at 25 I am number eight. be served: my mum’s family er keep a planeload of Ital- Without getting too tangled has a formal black-tie do in ians from their ‘mamma’ at up in the back story, my par- the evening, my dad’s lot a Christmas. ents had three daughters - of leisurely afternoon feast. Now that we’re grown up which I am the middle one - To complicate things fur- we have other considerations before they divorced. A short ther, the Christmas period - new partners with new fam- while later they both remar- is stuffed with family birth- ilies that need visiting and ried, and in some serendipi- days. Things kick off with my new traditions to be assimi- tous twist, both of their new nephew Will, who this year lated - but this year (deep partners already had three will turn six on December 18, breath) we just don’t want daughters from their pre- swiftly followed by mine on to let anyone down. So we’re vious marriages. Then my the 22nd (our fi rst year to- going to try to do the impos- mother and stepfather had another daughter, and… well, joy of joys, all of a sudden we My mum’s family has a formal black-tie found ourselves just one per- son away from being able to do in the evening, my dad’s lot a leisurely fi eld our own all-girl hockey team. For the majority of the year, afternoon feast I consider my vast family to be one of the most wonder- ful things about my life. It’s gether, my boyfriend fl oated sible: rush around to complicated, yes, and cha- the idea of getting me a ‘real- see every single person for otic, sure, but my sisters are ly nice!’ joint present. I fl oat- one epic week of celebration, my gang - my closest friends ed the idea of our split right in which we will cover over who provide endless support back at him); another sister 2,000 miles by car, plane and and hilarity, not to mention has her birthday on Christ- train. a cracking shared wardrobe. mas Eve. Then nine years We’ve mapped out our But a supersize family comes ago, we padded downstairs movements with military pre- with supersize logistical on Christmas Day morning, cision. We will have my birth- problems, which are magni- stockings in hand, to hear day party at home in London fi ed when Christmas rolls that my sister Vicky had just (I will keep it together). The around. There’s a reason the given birth on the newly car- following morning I will pack divorce rate spikes in Janu- peted bathroom fl oor. in time, and I will make it ary but when your family is I always celebrate my birth- into the car to drive to Her- already divided, things are day (‘Luce-mas’) with an efordshire, where we will see exponentially more diffi cult. epic party, at least partly in my boyfriend’s family for a In an ideal world, my parents can Christmas: Heinz baked will spend the following holi- Ignoring the problem only an attempt to distract myself meal on Christmas Eve. On and numerous siblings would beans, Nescafé instant coffee, days, or what’s come to be delays the hurt you inevita- from the looming nightmare Christmas Day itself we will gather in one place for an a whole Stilton and the family known as ‘The Conversa- bly infl ict on the people you Christmas marathon. The drive to my dad’s for another idyllic Walton-esque celebra- Jack Russell, whom we dress tion’, starts on . dearly love, since, even with downside is that I invariably turkey, spend the night there, tion, but the various factions in a Santa outfi t. No one does “I wonder what we’ll all do the best of intentions and wake up the following morn- and then catch the fi rst fl ight of divorced families don’t Christmas as magnifi cently next year,” one of my par- hours of thought, I have nev- ing sweating , with on Boxing Day to Italy, where tend to get on too well. Ours as my mum: the stockings ents will sigh. My sisters and er managed to keep everyone minutes to panic-pack be- the whole bloomin’ thing will is no different. she spends the whole year I exchange kicks under the happy. fore hurtling towards which- start again. For the past few years my curating are the stuff of leg- table before someone nobly When we were children, the ever parent we are going to We still can’t please every- dad and his stepdaughters end; her parsnips have been steps up to defl ect conver- obvious solution was to al- see fi rst. I arrive in a messy one. My step-mother’s re- have been based in Hamp- known to inspire spontane- sation with the announce- ternate between households. heap, while my sisters turn sponse, when we told her we shire where they do Christ- ous applause. My two sisters ment of plans to drop out With my dad’s immediate up glossy-haired and bright- will be spending three hours mas the traditional English and I, however, are stuck in of university, have a baby or family numbering eight, in- eyed, with perfectly assem- of Christmas Day in a car so way - log fi res, dusky country the middle having to choose experiment with recreational cluding six ‘spirited’ girls bled capsule wardrobes, we can be there, was “fi ne”. walks and novelty bow ties. which parent we see on the drugs. But by June, we’ve with just seven years between which I then have to raid. It will be a bonkers, alcohol- Meanwhile, every December day and, by horrible exten- run out of stalling tactics. An them, he often decided to One year the fl ight to Italy fuelled week and we may not my mum decamps to her sion of logic, which one we email pings into our inboxes. plonk us on a plane and take was delayed because I ran survive intact. And next year, home in Italy. My ever-patient don’t. It’s an impossible and Subject: ‘Christmas!!’ ‘Hello us on holiday when it was his off the plane just before the we’ve promised ourselves a stepfather drives, so that she heart-wrenching choice. darlings!’ Mum chirrups, ‘I turn. This worked with vary- doors closed when I realised Christmas just for us, with a can load the boot with all the Each year, the protracted encourage you to think about ing degrees of success. There that McDonald’s had started take-away curry and a good vital ingredients for a Tus- discussion about where we it sooner rather than later!!’ was the year that 13-year-old to serve its lunch menu at boxset. Fat chance. For US stores it is ugly out there in more ways than one THE 2013 holiday shopping season may end dent Barack Obama’s healthcare reforms. and “fair isle” patterns. Morningstar. up being remembered for its ugly sweaters Offsetting those negatives has been the “This is going to be a Christmas of ugly Wendy Liebmann, CEO of WSL Strategic and, for many retailers, even uglier dis- wealth impact of a rise in home prices and a sweaters,” she said, eyeing an Urban Outfi t- Retail, expects teen apparel chains to offer counts. rallying stock market, although that is more ters tan sweater with a pair of foxes knitted bigger discounts closer to Christmas because With growing online competition, weak con- likely to help the luxury end of retailing. into the pattern of the garment. “That’s the fashions are “banal” and interchangeable this sumer confi dence and no fashion must-haves, Most industry forecasts show sales growing hip thing now; bad sweaters are so cool” year, and their customers have been trained most US retailers will have to offer both big modestly overall, with online retailers taking among 20- and 30-year olds. to wait for the best deals. discounts and stellar service to get consum- a bigger slice of the pie and electronics steal- New must-have gadgets such as Sony At department store chain JC Penney Co ers to spend freely, according to analysts. ing share from apparel. Corp’s PlayStation 4, Microsoft Corp’s Xbox Inc, analysts had mixed views about over- “People are being a lot more selective in ComScore, an analytics fi rm, this week One gaming consoles and Apple Inc’s latest stuffed racks of clothing. Some saw them as a where they spend their money,” said Wed- said it expected e-commerce sales, including iPhones and iPads could take a bite out of sign of weakness, but others said the com- bush analyst Gabriella Santaniello. those made on mobile devices, to rise 16 per other holiday gift purchases and hurt some pany was trying to prove to shoppers that it The battle for the consumer dollar is par- cent this holiday season. apparel chains, according to analysts. had overcome recent troubles that included ticularly intense in a year when taxes have Santaniello is betting on Urban Outfi tters “There’s a limited wallet, and there’s going under-stocking of some store brands. risen, unemployment has remained stub- Inc, American Eagle Outfi tters Inc, and other to be a lot of competition from outside the “What one may misconstrue as clutter is bornly high, and confi dence has taken a hit purveyors of trendy sweaters featuring cu- apparel space, which means teens are going merely a strategic effort to meet high cus- from the recent government shutdown and tesy animals, phrases such as “totes amaze” to be spending much less money on clothes,” tomer demand,” said Penney spokeswoman uncertainty over the introduction of Presi- (slang for totally amazing) in curly cursive, said Bridget Weishaar, a retail analyst with Daphne Avila.