As John Keats famously said “Give me books, fruit, French Wine and fine weather…” And I’m with John on this.

So, knock out the fruit, probably the French – and by the looks of it the fine weather -and over the next 24 days I’ll be nominating 12 books I recommend for Christmas and 12 great tipples to go with them.

Let’s call it LitVit.

Or rather LitVit ©

On the first day of Christmas…

I wouldn’t be a true young publisher/Frankfurt fellow/ campaigner against tall poppy syndrome if I didn’t start LitVit with my favourite project of the year. (Yes, you can have favourites): Jandal Prints on the Globe

This collection of short stories and photography is written by young New Zealanders as they travel around the world. Not only is it truly iconic of our nation, but it speaks to everyone who has travelled, wants to travel, or would rather stay at home (with a glass of wine) and be an armchair traveller. The stories vary in length, location and content- some of them are hilarious, many are mischievous and some of them have elements of sorrow. As do all worthwhile journeys!

To quote editor Jane Gilkison: “The stories are short, engaging and easy to read. Even after a glass of wine”.

And my pairing from the vine? Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2009.

Oyster Bay is a bit of an iconic Sauvignon Blanc, and I know many homesick New Zealand expats who manage to sniff out a bottle to reminisce over the tropical flavours. Oyster Bay sauv has successfully exported itself with a great reputation, just like our travellers.

Oyster Bay 2009 Sauv: young, refreshing and a little bit zesty.

A bit like Jandal Prints on the Globe, really.