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By Nick Victory
Champagne is the name of a wine-making district in France and only sparkling wines produced there, from specific varieties of grapes, can be called champagnes. Bottles not from France are usually labeled sparkling wine, unless it's Cava from Spain or Prosecco from Italy. You can't go wrong with any of these, as the fizz pairs gorgeously with almost any food combination. Sparkling wines can be served prior to the meal, with the meal, or even afterwards as dessert. They're best served at refrigerator temperature. It's also common lore that champagne gets girls into the mood even faster. (My initial studies do confirm this, but you should conduct your own independent study.)
For a very special evening or meal, go with a rosé Champagne. Although some people think rosés are inferior to regular Champagne, in actuality they're harder to make and usually more expensive. Plus the rosé color will add flair and fun to your table. This bubbly, pink drink will appeal to your girl's feminine side. But be careful not to point the bottle at your date when you open it. You don't want to give her a black eye before the evening has started.
GREAT VALUE (Good Entry Level)
$25 - $50
CHARLES HEIDSIECK BRUT RESERVE FRANCE
PIPER-HEIDSIECK BRUT FRANCE
TATINGER
BOLENTER
VEUVE CLICQUOT YELLOW LABLE NV
High End
$100-$200
98 DOM PERIGNON
1998 PERRIER JOUET FLEUR DE CHAMPAGNE
ROSE
LAURENT PERRIER ROSE BRUT $70
1997 LAURENT PERRIER GRAND SIECLE CUVEE ALEX ROSE
$128.99
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