Written by: Wendi Pairitz, Sommelier and Food & Beverage Manager
Champagne has been the symbol of celebration since its creation. From kings and generals to renowned figures in history, it has inspired songs, writings, and even wars. The effervescent bubbles make it the go-to drink for celebrations and lovers, and the good news is that it’s a luxury anyone can enjoy, regardless of budget. So, of course, Champagne is a must for Valentine’s Day!
But buying Champagne can sometimes be overwhelming. How do you know if you’re picking a good bottle? Can you find a high-quality Champagne for under $20? The answer is YES!
What Makes Champagne “Champagne”?:
To be called “Champagne,” a sparkling wine must come from the Champagne region of France. In the late 1700s, the cold winters of the region led to a phenomenon where wine would freeze in the bottle. As it thawed and began fermenting again, gases developed, resulting in delicate bubbles. This accidental discovery gave birth to the elegance we know today as Champagne.
Key Terms to Know When Choosing Champagne:
- Sparkling Wine: This term refers to wines made anywhere in the world, not necessarily from Champagne. Some notable U.S. options include:
- Gruet Non-Vintage Brut, New Mexico ($15): A family-owned winery producing great sparkling wines, with aromas of green apple, citrus, and a touch of yeast.
- J Vineyards Cuvee, Sonoma ($35): This wine offers notes of pear, citrus, and a finish of blanched almonds.
- Cava: The sparkling wine of Spain, made using the same method as Champagne, but often fruitier and lighter in style. The great thing about Cava is that it’s hard to find a bad one, no matter the price.
- De Pro Cava ($15): Tastes like a toasty Brut from Champagne with a dry finish and notes of red apple and buttered toast.
- Prosecco: An Italian sparkling wine made through tank fermentation instead of in the bottle, resulting in a lighter, more fruit-forward style. It lacks the fresh-baked bread aroma that Champagne has, but is crisp and citrusy.
- Ai Galli Prosecco ($18): A perfectly balanced, smooth wine with notes of green apple, pear, and a touch of wet stone.
- La Luca Prosecco ($11): With a steely minerality, this Prosecco pairs well with fruit, juices, or spirits like Aperol—perfect for a spritz.
- Champagne: When it comes to Champagne, quality is usually reflected in the price. But if you’re willing to splurge, here are a few great options:
- Perrier Jouet Grand Brut ($35): A chance to experience one of the founding Champagne houses of the region. It has notes of peach, white flowers, and fresh lemon, and is consistently good year after year.
- Pol Roger Reserve Brut ($65): A complex Champagne with notes of apricot, honeysuckle, and jasmine, followed by vanilla, candied orange peel, and cardamom. Its delicate bubbles and varied flavors make it a rare gem.
- Nicholas Feuillatte Reserve Exclusive Rosé ($80): A newer Champagne house with its first vintages produced in the 1980s, blending classic elegance with a modern twist. Their rosé features flavors of red currant, blueberry, and raspberry.
Find Your Perfect Pairing for These Champagnes:
Champagne, Prosecco, Cava, and other sparkling wines are the ultimate food-friendly drinks. Whether you’re indulging in hot dogs or filet mignon, popcorn or lobster, Champagne pairs beautifully with almost anything!
For the perfect pairing, remember that Champagne’s bubbles cut through rich, fatty foods, making it an excellent match for a cheese plate or charcuterie board. Cheeses like Brie, Manchego, and goat cheese complement its crispness perfectly. It’s also a fantastic companion to decadent desserts like crème brûlée or chocolate torte, cleansing the palate between each luscious bite.
Rosé Champagnes offer even more versatility. Their delicate strawberry notes enhance the flavors of chocolate-covered strawberries or a fruit tart. They also hold up well against richer fish like salmon, balancing its buttery texture while contrasting with Champagne’s bright fruitiness.
Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day or any special occasion, Champagne is the drink that elevates any moment. You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy high-quality bubbly; there’s something for every budget. Cheers! 🍾🥂