Nothing gets you in the party mood quite like champagne. Made exclusively in the hills around Rheims and Epernay in the Champagne region of northern France, it is a blend of three grape varieties: chardonnay, pinot noir and pinot meunier.
Although most champagnes are blended, some are made of 100% chardonnay (blanc de blancs) or just pinot noir and pinot meunier (blanc de noirs). And there's pink champagne too.
The mainstay of any champagne house, however, is its non-vintage (NV), achieved by blending the current vintage with older reserve wines to produce a consistent house style.
But which brand to choose? It all comes down to personal taste, but if you take the NVs: Moët & Chandon delivers citrus flavours with a yeasty, fresh bread nose; Taittinger offers aromas of fresh green fruit, with peach on the palate; and Veuve Clicquot uses more pinot noir grapes and is aged longer than most, so you can expect a richness to the fruit and toasted brioche on the finish.
While champagne still enjoys ultimate aperitif status, it can also partner a range of foods. There are obvious stylistic differences between NV champagnes and vintage bubbly. NV is lighter and partners more delicate dishes, while vintage can handle more complex food, as Charmain Savage, senior manager at Majestic Wine, knows.
"Vintage champagne offers richness and complexity because it's aged longer and uses the best grapes. It's perfect for richer dishes, particularly game birds."
With the party season upon us, what does Charmain recommend for a Christmas knees-up? "Something easy drinking – light and zesty with floral notes." And for Christmas lunch? "You want a little depth, but not something overly rich. You want balance and finesse."
Charmain believes that every glass of champagne is special: "Champagne is steeped in history. When you buy a bottle of champagne you buy into the maker's tradition, too."
A bubbly for every occasion
"These fizzes will be great for your get-togethers over Christmas, while providing a mix of styles to try out," says manager Charmain Savage.
Christmas brunch
Canard-Duchêne Brut NV, £15
This champagne offers its pleasures in an easily accessible style. Fruit flavours dominate the nose and palate. A hint of yeastiness and a fine mousse.
Christmas lunch
Bollinger Special Cuvée NV, £32
Delightfully pale gold, the mousse is light and persistent. Densely packed apple and pear fruits give way to a noticeably creamy, caramel-like finish.
Festive party
Veuve Clicquot Vintage 2004, £40
The pale green-gold colour and fine mousse belie a power that explodes in the mouth. Richness is balanced throughout with finesse and delicacy; a fine achievement.
Wine-matching masterclass
For more recommendations on great wine, visit Majestic Wine stores, where knowledgable and friendly staff are always happy to suggest a wine match for any occasion or recipe. All stores also offer free daily wine tastings and regular events. The minimum purchase is six bottles of any wine, champagne or spirits, and if you spend £40 or more, delivery is free. Terms and conditions apply. Over-18s only. For details, or to shop online, visit majestic.co.uk
