Although I know it's just the conditioning effect of a lot of expensive advertising, I still think Champagne' when I think of the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve. I'm inclined to make those New Year's celebrations last well into next week, so on the basis that you might be so inclined too, here's some ideas for budget bubbly.
Although I know it's just the conditioning effect of a lot of expensive advertising, I still think Champagne' when I think of the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve. I'm inclined to make those New Year's celebrations last well into next week, so on the basis that you might be so inclined too, here's some ideas for budget bubbly.
With Christmas and New Year come and gone, the chances are that most of us aren't too flush with cash at this very moment. That's a pity because we're all in party mode at this time of year, and however you cut it, partying is rarely cheap. Still, a little care in the choosing can save much pain on the bank balance.
Now you could reasonably ask What is a budget bubbly? Is it cheap because it's nasty?' The answer is almost always no'. There are many things that contribute to making Champagne more expensive than other wines; it's labour-intensive in its production, it's more heavily taxed than still wine, but most importantly the famous Champagne houses spend a lot of money on advertising and product promotion, and that cost gets passed on to you. Take away the publicity costs, and the price of a bottle of bubbly almost halves. Of course there are variations in quality, but they're not as big as the price differential would have you believe.
Let's put it this way; a top-end champagne from a famous house will be an excellent wine, their entry level champagne will be perfectly well made, but in no way exceptional. If we compare budget bubblies to entry level Grands Marques, we have a level playing field for comparisons. All the champagnes I've picked this week are around 25, with some under 20. All of these wines are great value and would make any party go with a sparkle and bang.
Lombard NV, from Dunnes Stores, 23.99
Lombard is a medium-sized house with cellars in Epernay, right in the middle of Champagne country. A good creamy champagne, you can also treat yourself to the Premier Cru, at 26.99 or the basic house champagne from Lombard under the label H. Lanvin at 19.99.
Bouchet NV Premier Cru, from O'Brien's, on offer, 23.99
This has been an O'Brien's favourite for a few years now. It's a well-made champagne in the classic mould, 50pc Chardonnay and 50pc Pinot Noir. Long-lasting bubbles, a nose of ripe grapes and a smooth finish.
Champagne Premier Cru, Tesco, 26.49
This is Tesco's own brand champagne and it's been winning awards consistently in the UK. It has very fine bubbles that last, with a pleasingly citric aftertaste.
Bisinger Premier Cru, Lidl, 21.99
This is an aromatic champagne, with floral notes as well as fruit, giving way to a toasty aftertaste. For a few euros more you could try the Bisinger Grand Prestige, which is beautifully packaged and costs 24.99. A basic Comte de Brismand champagne costs 17.99.
Monsigny Brut, Aldi, 17.99
A 30pc Pinot Meunier content in the blend gives this champagne a solid, almost rustic feel. That's balanced by a long bottle age 36 months prior to bottling giving it a smooth aftertaste.
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