The 2011 vintage from many areas of France could be an "exciting and exceptional" one and could find its way into Christmas hampers as a result.

An expert has declared that this year looks set to be a strong one for the nation's growing industry because of a very warm spring and a wet, early summer, similar conditions to those seen in the UK over the same period.

Circle of Wine Writers chairman Stuart Walton stated although this may sound like a "rather dangerous recipe", "what it has produced in many areas has been what looks like a rather exciting and exceptional vintage".

Port wine has weathered many challenges over the centuries and could be found in Christmas hampers this year.

According to a recent article by the Associated Press, the drink is celebrating its rich history in the Portuguese Douro Valley and producers are exploring new markets as earnings are squeezed by changing trends and the economic downturn.