With the holidays approaching and the recession still in our rear-view mirror, we aimed to find five delicious Champagnes for under $50 each. Here, budget-friendly ways to ring in the New Year (and other special occasions), courtesy of Katonah resident and wine consultant W. R. Tish (wineforall.com), who also serves as managing editor of the trade magazine Beverage Media.
Grower Champagne
Louis De Sacy Brut ($35.99) is a classic cuvée (a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier) that comes in three sizes (375ml, 750ml, 1.5L). According to Suburban’s Sparkling Buyer Jay Roelof, it is often preferred to Veuve Clicquot when poured at his Champagne class. |
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Pretty in Pink
Rosé Champagne adds a dimension of both color and fruitiness not normally found in NV (non-vintage) bruts. Normally pricier than the “regular” stuff, you can serve or gift in confidence with Deutz Rosé ($48)—a good bet that also looks good come Valentine’s Day. |
Feeling gifty?
Nicolas Feuillatte, which is produced by a cooperative, delivers all the toasty/yeasty flavor and length you look for in “real” Champagne—without the high price tag. They also excel at holiday gift-packages; a full bottle plus two flutes is only $30.99. - Partner Content -
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For Chardo-philes
Blanc de Blancs Champagne is made with 100 percent Chardonnay. The trick is balancing the grape’s richness with freshness and elegance. The Ariston Aspasie NV “B de B” ($45) pulls it off with finesse and plenty of aromatic perlage (tiny bubbles). |
Brimming with Class
A bit of an underdog in the U.S., Gosset is one of Champagne’s oldest houses, and the basic sparkler—called Brut Excellence ($45.99)—tends to surprise with a penetrating acidity and a long finish, which flatters almost any food. |
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