Many consumers who would never spend more than €20 for a bottle of still wine are quite happy to pay €50-€100 for a bottle of Champagne. It is true that the process of making sparkling wine by the bottle-fermented method is laborious and expensive, and that excise duties are twice that of still wine.
But over the years, the people of Champagne have convinced us that sparkling wine made in their specific region is superior to all others, and usually charge accordingly.
Some of the time it certainly is, but some of the time you are paying for a mass-produced, heavily branded product. Having said that, I love very good expensive Champagne so long as someone else is paying for it. Here are three Champagnes that offer value for money.
Moët & Chandon is one of the largest producers in Champagne. In recent years the quality of the Brut Impérial has improved and now offers good value for money. Watch out too for the excellent Grand Vintage 2016, which will arrive later this year.
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Piper-Heidsieck is now made by the same people as the excellent (but unrelated) Charles Heidsieck, and the quality is on an upward trajectory. Prices haven’t quite caught up – yet – so it is a relative bargain.
Dunnes Stores import the Lombard directly. Unlike other Champagnes, it is about the same price as four or five years ago. It was on promotion at €41.50 until recently but still represents excellent value for money at €52.
If you are on a budget, I would recommend going for Cava from Spain or a Crémant of some kind from France. Both wines are made in a similar way as Champagne but cost far less.
Crémant de Loire Rosé L’Extra NV Langlois
12.5%, €19.95 down from €24.95
Very attractive, piquant redcurrant and raspberry fruits, finishing dry. A great aperitif with snacks.
From O’Briens
Lombard Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs NV Brut Nature
12%, €52
Refined medium-bodied Champagne with bright, fresh, racy apple fruits, toasted hazelnuts and a lip-smacking dry mineral finish. With oysters or other shellfish.
From Dunnes Stores
Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial NV
12%, €62.35
Delicious Champagne with baked apples, brioche and refreshing citrus zest. By itself or drink it throughout the meal.
Very widely available through supermarkets and independents
Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Brut NV
12%, €55-65
Very fine lively citrus with layers of orchard fruits and subtle almonds. With seafood dishes.
Widely available through supermarkets and independents
