Champagne.. it's the new milk

I have decided that champagne goes with anything... at least in my world it does. Sadly when it comes to purchasing champers, price is often an issue. If you are someone who can afford Veuve Clicquot for everyday drinking, I applaude you and I hope I am you one day. For the rest of us, there are cheaper and as delicious options. Archie, who I got to know through my better half, is our resident wine expert. He works at Jeroboams in London and is one of those people that actually knows and understands wine. I wrote him in hopes he could recommend some more affordable options. Here are his suggestions:

1. NV Pol Roger Brut Réserve Champagne- RRP £33.95 ($32 avg in the US)

The definitive Non-Vintage Champagne and Winston Chruchill's favorite. Pol Roger is one of the few remaining great family-owned Champagne houses and enjoys an unrivalled reputation. The three main grape varieties of the champagne region - Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay - are in equal proportions. The nose is dominated by white flowers, green apple, brioche and a trace of minerality. On the palate there are notes of stone fruits, a certain nuttiness and a hint of honey supporting the freshness of the acidity. Is there a finer NV Champagne?

2. NV Joseph Perrier- £26.75 ($35 avg. in the US)

A blend of all three Champagne grapes Chardonnay 35%, Pinot Noir 35%, Pinot Meunier 30%. Queen Victoria's favorite Champagne the NV Jospeh Perrier is decidedly refreshing with great poise and acidity, helped by a minimum of 3 years ageing in their Roman chalk cellars in Chalons-en-Champagne.

Run by Jean Claude Forman, a descendent of the original family, Joseph Perrier is a smaller house producing top quality Champagne. The wines are mellow and fruity, influenced by the Pinot, and made in a style that is both elegant and easy to drink. Wonderful Champagne that gives bigger houses serious competition!

Both of these champagnes are available at most wine shops. If these are still too pricey, there are always delicious Proseccos/sparkling wines (story to follow shortly). If you do go with a cheaper bubbly (we are not talking Andre here) you can always add a drop of elderflower cordial or Crème de cassis to your glass. Enjoy!