| A world of Bubbles |
 It may be called cava, sket, spumante, sparkling wine or in the French tradition, Champagne. Named after a region in north-central France which is the genesis of the entire category, the term 'Champagne' is reserved for sparkling wines made specifically in this region. Bubbly from around the world will be poured into sparkling champagne flutes to make a toast welcoming in the New Year. Primarily grown from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, Champagne and sparkling wine can be crafted into several styles of sweetness. Following is a list of specific terms used to define those levels that you may find helpful;
- Brut - Bone dry to almost dry
- Extra sec or Extra-Dry - Slightly sweeter
- Sec - Medium sweet
- Demi-sec - Sweet
- Doux -Very Sweet
Real Champagne can be quite pricey, whether it be vintage or non vintage, but when you open yourself to a world of bubblies, there are some very affordable and very drinkable options. Try one of these!
· Martini and Rossi Prosecco, Italy, Prosecco is the name of the grape grown primarily in the eastern part of Italy's Veneto region. Many Proseccos are sweet and fruity. This is an atypical variety; it's drier and crisper and not so fizzy that it makes you feel bloated. It's a terrific aperitif or Sunday brunch sparkler.
· Banfi Rosa Regale Brachetto d' Acqui, Reds can sparkle, too. The grape is the Brachetto. The color is similar to that of a Pinot Noir, and the flavor is an amalgam of raspberries, chocolate and rose petals.
· Domaine Ste. Michelle, Columbia Valley, Washington, This Washington sparkling wine is a consistently high ratings winner from Wine Spectator. Reasonably priced and with a full range of styles, it could easily be the sparkling wine of choice when lots of toasts are in order.
Here are a few sparkling pointers for enjoying your selection to the fullest!
- To quickly chill a bottle, submerge it in a container with both ice and water. In about 15 minutes the Champagne will be a proper serving temperature.
- Pour the wine down the side of the glass to maximize the bubbly effect.
One bottle contains about five glasses of Champagne
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Sparkling Wines by Region |
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Here is a qick sampling...
France
Dom Perignon, when only the best wil do. The name has become synonomous with class and stature. This Champagne is produced in only 2 styles, Brut and Brut Rose in exceptional vintages.
Spain
Cristalino Non-Vintage Rosi Cava
Italy
Canella Prosecco di Conegliano
United States
Gloria Ferrer Non-Vintage Sonoma Brut & Blanc de Noirs
Domaine Chandon Non-Vintage Brut & Blanc de Noirs
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| The Champagne Cocktail |
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A champagne cocktail adds a special touch to any party suitable for champagne. Just use the party-size recipe version below and follow the make-ahead tips for easy party preparation.
Party-Size Champagne Cocktail Recipe
1/2 cup simple syrup
1 1/2 teaspoons Angostura bitters
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 cup Cognac (or Brandy or Grand Marnier)
2 (750ml) bottles champagne
Orange twist halves and cocktail cherries for garnish
Simple Syrup: Dissolve 1 part sugar in 1 part boiling water. Cool.
Chill all ingredients before assembling. Combine simple syrup, bitters, lemon juice and Cognac and set aside. Refrigerate if making ahead. When you are ready to serve, thread the orange twists and cocktail cherries onto picks and insert in champagne flutes. Pour the simple syrup mixture into a pitcher. Gently stir in the champagne. Pour into flutes. 14-16 servings.
Tip:Make as much of the simple syrup mixture as you think you'll need ahead of time. Use a scant cup of the mixture per 2 bottles of champagne
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| Tips on Pairing Foods |
Recommended food pairings for specific champagnes: Although these are only guidelines as taste is a very personal thing.
Brut non vintage:
Scrambled eggs, any mushroom dish, Nuts, especially almonds Popcorn and potato crisps Cheese- especially hard cheeses such as parmesan, gouda or cheddar. Pasta or risotto-especially with cream or mushroom sauce. Avoid heavy tomato-based sauces as the acidity clashes with the high acidity of the champagne. Thin crust pizza, but not with heavy tomato-based topping.
Rose
Vegetables Fish and seafood Poultry and game birds ie duck
Blanc de Blancs:
Sushi,Goats cheese. Poultry especially duck Pink-roasted lamb Seafood and fish Vintages: All fish and seafood dishes especially with rich, creamy sauces. Duck Caviar Desserts that are not too sweet may be accompanied by a demi-sec champagne. Chocolate can be accompanied by an extra brut or demi-sec or a full flavoured dry rose.
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Winding down in 2007 means planning ahead for New Year's Eve. Hope you enjoy reading the quick tips below in planning your celebration whether it's a private party for two or gathering of many!
