Midweek Libations.

Bubbly, fizz, champers, pop, shampoo, Bolly. Whatever you call it, Champagne is the Queen of all libations. Elegant, sophisticated, mysterious, aloof. Champagne has an iconic image in western society that dates back several hundred years. Although traditionally reserved for special events or celebrations, Champagne is a fabulous drink for any day of the week. So much enjoyment can be had from a good glass or two of fizz that it is a shame to reserve it solely for such rare occasions. Winston Churchill once said “A single glass of Champagne imparts a feeling of exhilaration. The nerves are braced, the imagination is agreeably stirred; the wits become more nimble.” Paradoxically, even though Champagne is generally seen as a popular drink, relatively little is consumed. Given the intrinsic gratification of Champagne, would it not make sense to treat ourselves to a few bottles every now and then for no other reason than it's good? One should not be deterred by its glamorous image, you no longer need to spend a large sum of money to obtain a decent bottle. This week’s post is a slight deviation from the usual midweek cocktail recipe and aims to extol the virtues of Champagne and spread the word that it is versatile beverage to be enjoyed anytime.

True Champagne is a sparkling wine from the Champagne region of Northeast France, produced by inducing in-bottle secondary fermentation of wine to effect carbonation. While the term "Champagne" may be used by various makers of sparkling wine in other parts of the world, genuine Champagne can only come from the Champagne appellation. Most Champagnes are made from a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes but the less common Pinot Meunier grape may also be used. Champagnes defined as Blanc de blancs (white of whites) are made from pure Chardonnay and are generally lighter in style than regular Champagne.

Serving - Contrary to the common image portrayed by Hollywood and television, it is quite uncouth to allow the cork to make a loud "pop" when opening the bottle. Some people may be daunted by the prospect of opening a Champagne bottle, but I assure you it is quite straightforward. First remove the foil from around the cork assembly. Underneath will be the cork, surrounded by a wire cage to stop it from shooting out (which, unless you shook the bottle, won’t happen). Carefully untwist the wire key and ease the cage off. Place a small towel or napkin over the cork and place the palm of your hand gently on top. Grasp the covered cork with one hand and then slowly rotate the bottle, not the cork,  with the other hand. Gently ease the cork out until it gives a sigh or a whisper. When it comes to glassware, Hollywood got it wrong again. The wide flat Champagne cup of the movies should never be used. Such grandiose vessels create a very large surface area from which to lose all those heavenly bubbles. Instead, use a tall narrow Champagne flute to preserve the bubbles and aroma of the wine.

When it comes to buying Champagne, the first thing to verify is the origin of the wine. Make sure that it is true Champagne, and not a sparkling wine from another region or country. Most countries do not allow the word Champagne to be used unless it is real Champagne. Below are a few suggestions for brands to try in different price ranges.

Entry Level $25-$35 (weeknights, won’t require an extra trip to the ATM) – this category can be tricky as there are plenty of poor quality Champagnes on the market. For the money I particularly like Heidsieck & Co Monopole Blue Top. It’s a very approachable and affordable wine with good body, nice spicy aromas, and rich toasty flavors. Another good bet is Pol Roger White Foil with its yeasty bready aromas and elegant zesty style. I would avoid the much hyped and overpriced Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial with its light simple style and slightly acidic finish.

Mid Level $30-$55 (weekends, may require a debit card) – this category is dominated by a few big brand names, all of which are pretty good. Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label is a very reliable brand. Fruity and energetic with lasting complex flavors and good body, many people swear by their Veuve but, for the price, I prefer Bollinger Special Cuvée. Bollinger is perfection in a glass. One glass of this nectar is enough to transport you out of reality and into an ethereal paradise of elation. Having a bad day at the office? Save a couple of bucks on therapy and get a glass of this down you, it’s incredible value. Rich toasty vanilla flavors and a long satisfying finish.

High Level $50-$110 (weekends, after the mother-in-law has gone, may require a credit card, preferably with rewards) - Bollinger Grande Année is a fantastic rich, intense and complex Champagne with satisfying aromas, a fine sparkle and plenty of full, ripe, malty fruit and chocolatey flavors. Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque is another good choice. Cream and honey flavors are complemented by toasty brioche and lingering nutmeg notes.

Uber-High Level $120+ (promotions, holiday weekends, and other significant events, may need a second mortgage) – When price is no object, go for the rich nutty deep flavors of Krug (the non vintage is amazing, no need to go with the even more expensive vintage). Dom Pérignon is also a winner with a slightly lighter elegant style and satisfying almond and honey flavors. One of my personal favorites ever is Heidsieck & Co Brut Vintage Diamant Bleu. Absolute perfection in a glass. Deep rich hazelnut flavors with layers of rich stewed apples and pears, toasty vanilla and a full body. Just incredible. Don’t be fooled by the hype of Cristal, while it is a very high quality Champagne, its lighter style is not nearly worth the price.

So enjoy yourself. Grab a bottle and relax. Remember, every day is a special occasion.

Thank you RJH! If you have missed any of the past Midweek Libations, you can catch them all HERE . xoxoxox.

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Today we raise a glass to CACKLES who just got offered a new job! YOU SO DESERVE IT! Much love and congrats!!!

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Comments

[Eric]

Ah, champagne! My fave. I notice you don't mention sparkling wine in ths post...will you at a later date? I'm just curious what you'd recommend when you want to make a chmpagne cocktail (my fave is a simple 1:1 mix of pomegranate juice and prosecco).

[Sommelier RJH]

Thanks for your question Eric. There are a lot of great sparkling wines on the market these days, mostly from new world growers. New Zealand and Australia both offer some great deals, e.g. Seaview. One of my current faves is from France - Blanquette de Limoux Grande Reserve, a sparkling wine made in the Champagne method, amazing value at around $14. Hope this helps. RJH