Pop the Bubbly

December 2017
Written By: 
James Ginley

Ring in 2018 with these memorable Champagnes

Louis Roederer Cristal Rosé 2009

Reims, France, $520

The rarest of all Roederer Champagnes, this Rosé made its first appearance in 1974, nearly 200 years after the Champagne House was founded in France. Old Pinot Noir vines were selected to be the predominant grape and produce the unique pale pink color. Like all great vintage champagnes, it can be enjoyed for many years to come.

Moët et Chandon Dom Perignon 2006

Epernay, France, $170

The benchmark for fine vintage Champagne, this one earned a 96 point rating from Wine Advocate. Dom Perignon, who lived in the early 1700s, helped promote sparkling wine at a time when most wine was all still red wine. Like other great vintage Champagnes, it is only made from grapes harvested during one twelve month period that is deemed worthy.

Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque 2008

Epernay, France, $120

Known as the Flower Bottle, or Fleur de Champagne. Eye-catching, but a serious sparkler, with floral and toasty notes. If you’re invited, you can have your own Champagne blended according to your taste and stay at the Maison Belle Epoque, which is on the most exclusive street in the world, Avenue de Champagne, where Perrier-Jouët, Moët et Chandon, Pol Roger and other labels store millions of bottles, quietly maturing beneath the cobblestones.

Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut NV

Reims, France, $48

A consistent bestseller. Madame Clicquot was the first woman to enjoy much success in a field dominated by men and was known as the “Grande Dame of Champagne.” Her iconic yellow label is recognized all over the world as a standard of excellence in the Champagne business. Enjoy by itself or with seafood, fish or chicken in a white sauce.

Domaine Carneros by Taittinger, Brut Rosé NV

Napa, California, $37

Taittinger established their US operation in 1987. This cuvee, or blend, has more Pinot Noir, therefore the pinkish hue. Fruit-driven, dry, and crisp on the palate, it has an endless finish. Best enjoyed with light chicken or richer shrimp or crab dishes, though also delicious by itself. And for this price, it’s a great value, showing its French heritage well.

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Photographs courtesy of the wineries

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