For glittering occasions, there’s only one way to go, and that’s to buy a remarkable wine that measures up to the big event. If you’re smart, a little wise planning won’t go amiss. Think about ultra-classy claret, Sauternes, or vintage Port. They keep well, in the right conditions, for a couple of decades. If your recipients have a good winecellar, I’d look out for a vintage Port from 1997, 2000 or 2003, if you’re looking for something seriously special.

There’s also the view that the joyousness of an event calls for an impromptu celebration. Champagne’s the first choice – choose a good label, ready for drinking - Pommery is guaranteed to satisfy. Billecart-Salmon Brut NV is another top choice, and favourite of almost every wine connoisseur. Ruinart, Bollinger, and Roederer are three other consistently reliable houses worth checking out.

Supplier stockist
Pommery
£24-25, Unwins

Billecart-Salmon Brut NV
£25, Oddbins