To toast and drink well without spending big bucks, here are the great French bubbles that are worth buying for the winter holidays (and not only).
Champagne is the undisputed king of toasts, a symbol of celebration that has always enchanted artists, poets and visionaries, from Wilde to Drake. But today these bubbles, so linked to special moments, seem more expensive than ever. Don't despair, though: it is still possible to find excellent bottles at reasonable prices, perfect to accompany the holidays.
Here are some hidden gems that combine value and quality, all personally selected and tested by Eater Network experts. Ready to impress guests, pamper the palate and keep your wallet safe.
Chavost Blanc d'Assemblage
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Revolution in tradition. Fabian Daviaux has transformed his family's wine cooperative into a vanguard for natural Champagne. His Chavost label, made from the cultivation of totally organic vineyards and controlled fermentation with natural yeasts, offers a cuvée of rare vivacity: the Blanc d'Assemblage. With a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, it releases fresh aromas of green apple and brioche, perfect for an innovative toast. Price. Between 45 and 55 euros on major online e-commerce. Stellar quality at your fingertips.
Delamotte Brut Le Mesnil-sur-Oger NV
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A timeless classic, Delamotte is one of the oldest Champagne houses, dating back to 1760. Its connection with the illustrious Salon maison is reflected in the elegance of its bottles, but with a decidedly more affordable price tag: at the time of writing it is between 42 and 50 euros. Made from a combination of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, this cuvée is an ode to harmony, ideal with raw fish or fresh fruit.
Moussé Fils Eugène Extra Brut Blanc de Noirs
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A tribute to sustainability. Cédric Moussé leads a winery where ecological innovation meets the art of Champagne. Made primarily from Pinot Meunier, this Blanc de Noirs offers a surprisingly complex structure, with hints of Christmas spice and red cherry. On 70 euros, it is a refined and informed choice.
Guy Larmandier Grand Cru Cramant
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From a Grand Cru village, this Blanc de Blancs 100% Chardonnay conquers with sharp minerality and toasty notes. It is pure Champagne: fresh, elegant and wonderfully balanced. At about 65 euros, it offers a connoisseur's experience at a more than reasonable price.
Frédéric Savart L'Ouverture 1er Cru Extra Brut
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For those wishing to explore the nuances of Pinot Noir, this blanc de noirs is a revelation. Fresh and taut, it pairs beautifully with important dishes, from grilled meats to aged cheeses. Of course, priced from 70 euros, it is a slightly more challenging choice, but every sip is worth the investment.
Jacquesson Cuvée 743 Extra Brut
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A historic maison with a modern approach. Cuvée 743 is the result of an obsessive search for quality, combining grapes from first-class vineyards. Complex, with notes of dried fruit, citrus and toast, it is an excellent choice for an elegant aperitif. Price: about 90 euros.
Champagne Pierre Peters Cuvée de Réserve Blanc de Blancs Grand Cru
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This Blanc de Blancs is the epitome of refinement. With crystalline minerality and aromas of white flowers and citrus, it represents the best of Chardonnay from the Côte des Blancs. At 65 euros, it offers a taste of authentic luxury.
These bottles prove that you don't need a star bank account to enjoy Champagne. Experiment, explore, toast. After all, each glass of these bubbles promises not only flavor, but also a little sparkle of magic.