Ok, here it is. I'M OBSESSED WITH BUBBLES! People who say sparkling wine is just for celebrations will not be receiving a Christmas card from me! Any time is a good time for bubbles in my book. Out for brunch? Bubbles. Catching up with mom? Bubbles. Finally got to a new level in Candy Crush? Definitely bubbles (that game is hard!). Whatever the occasion, people are starting to see that sparkling wine can be enjoyed in a more casual way.
The best of the best come from the Champagne region in France. For those of you who don't know, Champagne is the region - not a grape variety or a town or just the term for all bubbly wines. Sparkling wine is made all over the world, but unless it is produced in this region, it cannot be called 'Champagne'. I can't begin to tell you how many people will ask for a 'glass of Champagne' in my restaurant, not realizing that they've just ordered a pretty pricey (but worth it) drink. If this is what you were looking for, great! If however, you were just wanting a sparkling wine, ask for that and your server will direct you to the selection that they offer. *This lesson has been brought to you by my crappy night at work
I was lucky enough to get to visit Champagne and it was incredible. It's less than a 2hr drive from Paris, so add it to your itinerary if you find yourself in the City of Love. Our first stop was the historic Moët & Chandon.
This is who produces the prestigious Dom Perignon. Even non-wine drinkers will know that name. Having a chance to learn more about this place and visit their underground cellars will forever be ingrained in my memory. Tours are available and worth every penny, but make sure you book ahead - they are popular! You'll find this Champagne house in Épernay, France.
Another one I had to see before leaving was Taittinger. Like Moët & Chandon, this is one of the most iconic Champagne houses in France. Whenever I find myself shopping for Champagne, I always end up gravitating over to my beloved Taittinger; it is just one of those brands that you know will never let you down. It is located right in the center of Reims, France and is not too hard to find, which is refreshing because some can be! But don't be fooled by the easy directions, because once you are underground in their cellars you could easily get lost. These cellars date back to the 4th century when the Romans mined the area for chalk, and once you're down there you almost feel transported back to that time.
I hope now when someone says to you 'Sparkling wine? What is it, your birthday?', you feel empowered enough to say 'Nope, it's just a Tuesday'.
Thanks for reading <3