Despite what seems to be an everlasting recession, our thirst for Champagne shows little sign of diminishing - and Christmas is another occasion when we reach for a bottle of the famous sparkling wine.
My current two choices from the Grande Marques would start with Bollinger Rosé NV (Waitrose £46.29, Hermitage Cellars £41.65) with its gorgeous colour. It’s all very festive, and there are notes of fresh summer red fruits and a long complex finish. This is fabulous rosé Champagne to put a smile on anyone’s face.
My second choice would be Taittinger Prélude Grands Cru NV (Majestic £37 down from £43) which is a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir only from Grand Cru vineyards. It has quite a rich, creamy style with a long expressive finish, a perfect bottle of Champagne for Christmas morning.
Tesco Finest* Premier Cru Brut
It won a gold medal at this year’s International Wine Challenge and could happily sit with many more well-known brands. There’s a fine bead of bubbles, nice mousse and some citrus and bready notes on the nose. It’s not over complex but that’s fine for the price and it works just as well as an aperitif or with some smoked salmon.
Tesco £14.99 down from £19.99 until January 1.
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