A Bubbly Buyer's Guide
A champagne shopping list for any party, budget, or vibe.
Choosing the right champagne can be confusing AF. Jen Pelka, owner of San Francisco's new champagne bar The Riddler (it's run by an all-girl gang; go there now), breaks down how to buy a bottle for any bash or budget:
To Get the Party Started
"Don't be shy about going for a magnum. People go crazy for them, and a lot of small houses make them for surprisingly cheap—much cheaper than actually buying two bottles. Be prepared to be the belle of the ball."
She recommends: "Krug, Pol Roger, or Pierre Gimonnet & Fils [from $80]."
When You're on a Budget
"If you want true champagne—that is, made in 'Champagne, France'—it's almost impossible to find one for under $20."
She recommends: "Crémant de Loire— made in the same method but comes from the neighboring Loire Valley—by Langlois, M. Bonnamy, or Tissot Crémant du Jura. A perfectly delicious affordable alternative [$14 to $25]."
For New Year's Brunch
"Inexpensive cavas and proseccos are great for brunch cocktails—but think beyond the Mimosa!"
She recommends: "La Marca Prosecco [$14]. Mix with grapefruit juice and add a sprig of thyme or rosemary. Or pick another juice, add a sugar cube and a dash of Angostura bitters, and pour sparkling wine on it all."
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When You Want to Impress
"I love Veuve Clicquot, and it's a house people know."
She recommends: "Instead of the basic label, try the Veuve Clicquot Rosé [$67]."
To Try Something Totally Different
"Go to your favorite wine store. Now avoid all the big labels you recognize. Instead, ask for an indie 'grower-producer.' The clerk will probably hand you something delicious and lower in price, and tell you a story about the unique way that vineyard makes its champagne."
She recommends: "Pierre Péters [from $50]."
A version of this article appears in the December issue of Marie Claire, on newsstands now.
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