Welcome to The Posh Off Licence Cellar Guide

Whether you’re a casual sipper or a budding connoisseur, navigating the world of wine and spirits can feel like decoding an ancient language. That’s where this guide comes in. Consider it your friendly map to better understand flavour profiles, origins, and how to pick the right bottle—whether for tonight's dinner, to impress at your next gathering or to put down for a few years.

WHITE WINES DECODED

Whites, not one-size-fits-all, let's break it down into three approachable styles to help you explore confidently:

1. Light & Crisp

Think Sauvignon Blanc, Sancerre or Vinho Verde. Bright & zesty, perfect with goat's cheese, asparagus, oysters or lemon chicken. Expect flavours like lemon, green apple, and herbs. Refreshing and easy to love.

If you like: Sauvignon Blanc, try Chenin Blanc, Vinho Verde, Vermentino or Grüner Veltliner. EXPLORE

2. Aromatic

This is Riesling and Viognier territory. Floral, fruit-forward and layered with character. You'll find stone fruit, exotic spices, and sometimes a hint of sweetness.

Other players: Gewürztraminer, Muscat, Torrontés. EXPLORE

3. Rich & Full

Here you'll find Chardonnay, White Burgundy, and Marsanne/Roussanne blends. Creamy, round and often oak-kissed. These wines are a match for roast chicken, cheese boards, and quiet indulgence.

Tip: Look for the words "barrel-aged" or "malo" if you like that buttery smoothness. EXPLORE

RED WINES DECODED

Red wine is even more tricky so we have five styles:

1. Light

Not too many in here, think Beaujolais Nouveau, perfect for an afternoon in the sunshine.

2. Light to Medium

Think Pinot Noir (French Burgundy) or Gamay. These are easy-drinking reds with soft tannins and bright acidity. Others are there to discover like Cinsault. try with salmon.EXPLORE

3. Medium

Larger category headed by Rioja but Dolcetto and Tempranillo are two of quite a few. Try with sheep cheeses, manchego or lamb.

4. Medium to Full

Malbec, Syrah, Merlot and Chianti bring a bit more muscle. Expect darker fruit, spice, and structure. Food-friendly and crowd-pleasing, oh, and the Bordeaux. EXPLORE

5. Full

Cabernet Sauvignon, Amarone and Barolo. These are the heavyweights. Deep, complex, age-worthy—perfect for steaks, stews, or slow evenings. Try Barbera or Zinfandel.EXPLORE

Spirits: A Taste for Any Occasion

Gin

From classic London Dry to floral Old Tom and zesty new-wave gins, there’s a style for every tonic and garnish. Explore how botanicals like juniper, citrus peel and angelica root create complexity. EXPLORE

Whisky or Whiskey

Scotland brings you smoky Islay malts and silky Speysiders. Ireland delivers smooth elegance. American bourbon? All caramel, oak, and fire. EXPLORE

Rum

White, gold or dark—rum ranges from clean and dry to rich and molasses-sweet. Great for sipping or mixing. EXPLORE

Agave Spirits

Tequila and mezcal are made from agave, but the flavour spectrum is wide: from earthy and smoky to crisp and citrusy. EXPLORE

Brandy & Cognac

Grapes, distilled. Brandy warms the palate, while Cognac brings refined fruit and spice. Elegant and timeless. EXPLORE

🎨 How to Use This Guide

• Use the filters on our product pages to browse by style, region, or varietal.
• Check out The Cellar Blog for stories behind the bottles.
• Join Private Access for member-only perks and insights.

This is just the beginning of your journey. Drink curiously, ask questions, and above all—enjoy the discovery.