Add Sparkle to the Holidays
Celebrate with champagne and sparkling wines
by Linda A. Thompson-Odum
For the holidays, wine lovers tend to migrate towards things that go pop—sparkling wines and champagne. There are few things more festive than a glass of dancing bubbles. It is an immediate signal that the fun is about to begin.
About Champagne
Most people use the term champagne to mean any wine that bubbles. However, champagne is a specific type of French sparkling wine that comes from the Champagne region. The five champagne categories include:
- Brut—bone dry
- Extra dry
- Sec—slightly sweet
- Demi-sec—sweet
- Doux—very, very sweet
Top Picks
The list covers all price ranges, from $10 to $60, with most below $20.
Brut Dargent Blanc de Blanc, $10
The name blanc de blanc means it is made only with chardonnay grapes. This sparkling wine comes from eastern France, but not the Champagne region, so it cannot be called champagne. However it is made in that style.
Gruet Blanc de Noirs, $16.99
A sparkling wine from New Mexico, made with a blend of chardonnay and pinot noir grapes. Flavor can be attributed to the region’s high altitude climate with its cool nights that influence the grapes’ development.
Bisol Crede Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Brut, $19.99
A dry rich Italian sparkler, with citrus notes and minerality that will work with any food.
Bisson Prosecco Colli Dei Trevigiani, $19.99
Another Italian sparkler that’s bone-dry, with a pure minerality.
Catherine et Didier Champalou, $29.99
An elegant, bone-dry sparkling Vouvray from France’s Loire Valley. It is made with Chenin Blanc grapes and will go with any food.
Louis de Grenelle Corail Rosé, $19.99
This sparkler gets its pink color from cabernet franc grapes; it’s rich and creamy with beautiful fruit.
J. Lassalle Premier Cru Rosé Champagne, $59.99
A bubbly from one of the region’s top rated quality vineyards; rich berry flavors, satisfying.
Guy Larmandier Champagne Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs, $57.99
It is very dry, elegant, and focused. The purest and best example of blanc de blanc. Stop, slow down, and enjoy its subtleties.