Champagne has been the drink of choice amongst the rich and powerful for centuries. It is imagined to be fabulous in every way, why shouldn’t it live up to its reputation? What is that certain quality that makes champagne…champagne?
Champagne is not only a method, but a geographic region as well. This particular wine hails from the Champagne region of northeastern France. Fun Fact! You may be surprised to know that what you casually deem ‘champagne’ may technically not be champagne at all. Only sparkling wine produced from this particular region of France can be addressed as Champagne. If it comes from anywhere else, it is simply sparkling wine.
Perhaps you’re wondering which Bottle you should select passing through the vino aisle eyeballing the endless variety of black and dark green bottles.. The selection process isn’t as difficult as it may seem. Key factors include the amount you are willing to spend, and the flavor you crave.
Champagnes are only derived from three grape varieties:, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier. The subtle difference in blending ratios amongst the three varieties is what gives each bottle its sweet or dry distinctive Taste.
Pop A Bottle Of Moet & Chandon
Moet & Chandon is said to be the world’s favorite champagne. The name comes branded with exceptional glitz and glam. Moet is owned by the Louis Vuitton/Hennessy corporation. Yes, that is Louis Vuitton as in the fashion powerhouse. If you’re concerned about image when sipping your bubbly. Moet is a great choice.
The taste of Moet comes in a variety of flavors including Imperial, Rose Imperial, and Grand VIntage. If you want something of a more traditional palette, Imperial is the way to go. The aromas are radiant, releasing the sweet scent of stone fruits, honey, floral nuances and elegant blonde notes of fresh nuts. The taste is delicate with small, active bubbles. A bottle of Imperial typically averages around $50.
Start The Party With Veuve Cliquot
It’s always polite to bring along a bottle of Veuve to a special event. Veuve says “let’s have fun!” This spirit is perfect for any setting, plus there is plenty of finesse in every bottle.
Veuve is known for it’s great taste and wonderful finish. It comes in several varieties. The most popular is known as the Yellow Label (which is actually orange). It is a fruity structured wine with a soft, creamy texture, and crisp taste.
Each bottle is filled with the aroma of fresh baked dough and baked apples. It’s certainly not your grandma’s apple pie! Yellow label is reasonably priced and offers a well-bodied taste.
Go All Out With Dom Perignon
Dom Perignon is a vintage champagne known as one of the finest, and it’s always in high demand. If an impression is what you’re looking to make, Dom Perignon is your best bet.
Who the heck is Dom Perignon? You might ask. Dom himself was a French Benedictine monk who made contributions to the production and quality of champagne during a period when wines were still predominantly red. He was a pioneer for both preparation techniques and cultivation methods for winemaking.
From the moment you uncork the bottle, the fresh hint of almonds and harvest aromas immediately open up into floral notes with citrus overtones. The taste is characterized by a toastiness that softens the bone dry character of the champagne. It is a true flavor experience. A bottle will set you back a pretty penny, but it’s well worth it because of its Prestige Cuvee.
Grab the bubbly and make a toast, because good champagne is always in style. The New Year is quickly approaching and this is the perfect time to bring out the best of the best. Keep it classy, and always, drink responsibly.
What will you be sipping in 2015?
