Archive December 15, 2006

Tiny Bubbles

Thank goodness for monks. You see, French monks were the first to bottle a sparkling form of wine called Champagne (named after the Champagne region of France); and honestly my life would be incomplete without champagne or sparkling wine.

I can’t emphasize enough what an important part champagne plays in the “World of Wine”. It seems like for every occasion a great bottle of bubbly would be the perfect pairing.

What should I serve at my company's holiday party? CHAMPAGNE

What should I bring as a gift to a dinner party? CHAMPAGNE

I’m having friends & family over for appetizers and/or dessert, what can I pour? CHAMPAGNE

I think you get my point. If you are wondering what are the best champagnes to drink or buy I offer you Lynne’s Top 5 favorite Champanges/Sparkling Wines for the Holiday Season:

1. If I had my choice and money was no object: Louis Roederer “Cristal” Brut Champagne, 1999, made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. In restaurants it will cost around $270 You can find it at wine stores or online (if you’re lucky) for around $220 It was originally created in 1876 for Tsar Alexander II. The taste is truly amazing!
2. Since money is usually an object: how about a fun champagne everyone has heard of - Moet & Chandon NV White Star, from France. It’s made of 3 grapes: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. You can find it in wine stores or online for around $39
3. Another fun and popular champagne: Taittinger “La Francaise” Brut. Made from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes. I have celebrated many a New Years Eve with this great bubbly! It costs around $57 in restaurants and around $39 online or in stores.
4. Want something different, fun and usually less expensive? How about a Riesling Sext (a sparking wine made with grapes from Germany). Steininger from Langenlois, Austria 2003 is a popular one. It costs around $39 in restaurants and around $23 online or in stores.
5. Last but not least: a slightly bubbly Prosecco (an Italian sparkling wine - less bubbly than American sparkling wine). Try Martini & Rossi Prosecco from Veneto, Italy. It retails for around $13.

So pop the cork and get the Holiday’s started right!

Cheers!

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