The holiday season is a time for celebration, and champagne is a popular beverage of choice for many. Whether you&#39;re looking for a high-end champagne to mark a special occasion or a more approachable option for casual gatherings, there are plenty of choices to consider.&nbsp;

By the way, we love champagne with all kinds of food (seafood, fried chicken, spicy food, etc) and is more than just for a quick toast at midnight.&nbsp;

High-End Champagnes:&nbsp;

When it comes to high-end champagnes, names like <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/MoA-t-and-Chandon-Dom-Perignon-Brut-2013-w87575582p">Dom Perignon</a> and Krug often come to mind. These prestigious champagnes are typically reserved for special occasions and are known for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/MoA-t-and-Chandon-Dom-Perignon-Brut-2013-w87575582p">Dom Perignon</a> is produced by Moet &amp; Chandon and is named after the Benedictine monk who is often credited with discovering the champagne-making process. Krug, on the other hand, is known for its rich and complex flavors, thanks to its unique production methods, including fermentation in small oak barrels. These won&#39;t disappoint! Yum!!&nbsp;

More Approachable Options:&nbsp;

If you&#39;re looking for a more approachable champagne that still offers great quality, there are plenty of options to consider. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ruinart-Brut-Rose-w2136832vx">Ruinart Rose</a> and <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Charles-Heidsieck-Brut-Blanc-De-Blancs-w1263779l4">Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blanc</a> are two examples of champagnes that are well-regarded but are often more affordable than their high-end counterparts. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ruinart-Brut-Rose-w2136832vx">Ruinart Rose</a> is known for its delicate, fruity flavors, while <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Charles-Heidsieck-Brut-Blanc-De-Blancs-w1263779l4">Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blanc</a> is a type of champagne made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, resulting in a crisp and elegant taste. Solid choices!&nbsp;

Blanc de Blanc:

Blanc de Blanc is a term used to describe champagnes that are made exclusively from white grapes, typically Chardonnay. This style of champagne is known for its light and crisp flavors, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more delicate taste. Blanc de Blanc champagnes are often a great option for pairing with seafood or light appetizers.&nbsp;

Lower-End Examples and Spanish Cava:

If you&#39;re looking for lower-end champagne options, there are plenty of choices to consider. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Piper-Heidsieck-Brut-Cuvee-w504046291">Piper-Heidsieck&#39;s Brut Non-Vintage</a> is a great affordable option that still offers great quality and flavor. This champagne is known for its fresh and lively taste, making it a great choice for casual gatherings. In addition to champagne, <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Gramona-Brut-Corpinnat-Imperial-2017-w91087350j">Spanish Cava</a> is another great option to consider for all budgets. Cava is a sparkling wine that is produced in Spain using the traditional champagne method, and it offers great quality at a more affordable price point.&nbsp;

Whether you&#39;re looking for a high-end champagne to mark a special occasion or a more approachable option for casual gatherings, there are plenty of choices to consider. From prestigious names like <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/MoA-t-and-Chandon-Dom-Perignon-Brut-2013-w87575582p">Dom Perignon</a> and Krug to more affordable options like <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ruinart-Brut-Rose-w2136832vx">Ruinart Rose</a> and <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Gramona-Brut-Corpinnat-Imperial-2017-w91087350j">Spanish Cava</a>, there&#39;s a champagne out there for every taste and budget.&nbsp;

Cheers to the holiday season! #drinkwhatyoulove #bubbles

The holiday season is a time for celebration, and champagne is a popular beverage of choice for many. Whether you're looking for a high-end champagne to mark a special occasion or a more approachable option for casual gatherings, there are plenty of choices to consider.

Bubbles for the Holidays!!

The world of sparkling wine is a vast one. While champagne has long been the reigning king, there's another contender that’s not only equally delicious but also offers great value for money - Cremant.

Cremant vs Champagne: The real deal for bubbles.

Omakase is experiencing a surge in popularity, let’s dig into what it is and of course what wines to drink.



 Omakase, a term that translates to "I'll leave it up to you" in Japanese, is rapidly gaining popularity in the culinary world. This dining experience places your meal entirely in the hands of the chef, who meticulously crafts each course based on seasonal ingredients and their personal creative flair. It's not just about seafood; while sushi often features prominently due to its status as a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, an omakase menu can include anything from Wagyu beef to seasonal vegetables.

Omakase and Wine Pairing: A Booming Gastronomic Journey

California Chardonnay: it's a name synonymous with sunshine, buttery richness, and maybe even a splash of white wine envy (looking at you, Bridget Jones). But how did this grape, originally hailing from France, become a Californian icon? Buckle up, because we're diving into the world of CA Chard, from its unexpected origins to the reasons it continues to reign supreme on wine lists.

Buckle up, because we're diving into the world of CA Chard!

Forget everything you think you know about sweet, syrupy wines. Lambrusco is a sparkling red wine from Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region that’s as light and bubbly as a summer day.

Lambrusco: The Party in a Bottle You Need to Try under $25

As the days grow longer and warmer, it's time to trade in your full-bodied reds and crisp whites for a glass of refreshing rosé. This versatile wine is not only perfect for spring but also pairs beautifully with a wide variety of foods all year round.



Rosé originates from France, specifically Provence - the world’s leading rosé region. It has been produced there since 600 BC when Greeks brought vines to southern France. Unlike its red and white counterparts, rosés are made using an array of grape varietals including Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault among others.

Spring into Rosé: The Perfect Wine for Warmer Weather

We are interested in understanding your dining and wine consumption habits to gain valuable insights into the wine and restaurant industry.

State of Wine and Restaurant Survey 2024

Aligoté: Burgundy's Unsung Hero Steps Out of the Shadows

For Chardonnay lovers seeking a refreshing, value-driven alternative, Aligoté, Burgundy's "other" white grape, beckons with its crisp acidity, subtle minerality, and undeniable charm. Often overshadowed by its more illustrious neighbor, Aligoté is finally gaining recognition for its unique qualities and exceptional quality-to-price ratio.

Aligoté: Burgundy's Unsung Hero Steps Out of the Shadows

A Hungarian Legacy: Imagine yourself in Tokaj, Hungary, a region steeped in winemaking tradition. For centuries, Furmint has thrived in its volcanic soil, basking in the warm sunshine. These grapes, loved for their thick skin and high acidity, became the cornerstone of Hungary's most famous wine: Tokaji. These sweet, honeyed treasures were once enjoyed by royalty and popes!

Furmint: Hungary's Hidden Gem for Wine Lovers

Check out these four whites wines under $24, from some great producers across various terroirs – France, Italy, Spain. Spring is in the air.

Four must try white wines for under $24 from France, Spain, and Italy

Hy's Steakhouse & Cocktail Bar

Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Hy’s Steakhouse in Toronto. 

Wine List Review of Hy's Steakhouse in Toronto, Canada

Michaela Quinlan

Hy's Steakhouse

Hy&rsquo;s:

RT: Hello and welcome to CorkRules!&nbsp;

A podcast where, in each episode,&nbsp;we will review a wine list from your favorite restaurants. I&rsquo;m your host Robert Tas along with Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier.

Hello Michaela,&nbsp;it&rsquo;s great to be back together for another episode.

MQ: Hi Robert!

RT: Before we jump in, let&rsquo;s talk about CorkRules.

We created CorkRules to demystify wine lists because we know from experience, that sometimes when we get that list handed to us, well&hellip; it can be intimidating, and even a little daunting.

Our aim is to help prepare you to navigate that list, find those hidden gems, or value wines or that special bottle that will take your dining experience over the top.

RT:&nbsp;So, sit back and listen as we review your favorite wine list.

RT: Today we are talking about Hy&rsquo;s Steakhouse. With locations in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Winnipeg, this fine dining establishment has been providing exceptional steakhouse fare and hospitality for over 65 years.

Michaela, I can&rsquo;t wait to hear what do you think of their wine list.

MQ: A Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence winner, this list consists of standout classic producers, limited releases, and local selections.

RT: That&rsquo;s really great, as you looked at the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: Let&rsquo;s begin with a local selection. The 2020 Wild Goose Riesling from the Okanagan Valley of Canada. This Riesling is on the dry end of the sweetness spectrum, with bright acidity, and features honeysuckle, ripe, green apple, dried apricots, with a mineral finish. Enjoy this Riesling with cheese and charcuterie, and any spicy dish.

RT: That is for sure unique. Did you find any others that caught your eye right away?

MQ: Staying local, consider the 2017 Vanessa Vineyard Syrah from the Similkameen Valley of Canada. This standout Syrah has all of the ripe, red cherries, ripe raspberries, white pepper, and thyme you would hope for in a rich, full-bodied Syrah. Pair this wine with richly sauced proteins and pasta.

RT: So Michaela, their list seems to have lots of range but was there anything that you would say is a &ldquo;must-try&rdquo;?

MQ: A must try is the 2019 Domaine Chante-Perdrix Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc. This Southern Rhone Grenache Blanc blend is medium-bodied with bright acidity, ripe peach, cantaloupe, and lime zest. This Chateauneuf du Pape Blanc is a perfect companion to dense fish and lightly sauced proteins. &nbsp;

RT: These are some great calls.

So, you know I&rsquo;m getting thirsty and will need to order a bottle with my dinner, where would you guide us?

MQ: Since we are dining at Hy&rsquo;s Steakhouse, consider the 97-point rated 2018 Tenuta Sette Ponti &ldquo;Oreno&rdquo; from Tuscany. This Super Tuscan is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot, all grown in Tuscany. The winery&rsquo;s flagship wine showcases aromas and flavors of ripe blackberries, cassis, plumb, fig, and black cherries, with notes of licorice and cocoa on the finish. A wonderful companion to all rich dishes on Hy&rsquo;s Steakhouse&rsquo;s menu.

RT: Ooh, Terrific. Michaela, speaking of price, sometimes people have a budget in mind.&nbsp; Any other great value wines you&rsquo;d point us to?&nbsp;

MQ: A wine of excellent quality and value that caught my eye was the 2018 Jolie Farm Muscat from the Okanagan Valley in Canada. This Muscat Blanc has a touch of sweetness, making it an excellent pairing for spicy and fried dishes. Aromas of tropical fruit such as mango, and pineapple, along with bright acidity and citrus, make this wine a wonderful, local consideration.

&nbsp;

RT: That sounds great. What is your other value selection?

MQ: Let&rsquo;s head to Spain for our full-bodied, quality and value red wine. Consider the Domino de Tares &ldquo;Cepas Viejas&rdquo; Mencia from Bierzo. This Mencia showcases ripe blackberries, cassis, and leather, with notes of cocoa and nutmeg on the finish. Another excellent pairing for all rich and richly sauced proteins, all for an excellent price.

RT: Now Michaela, what if I have a big client dinner or special occasion where I want to take it up a notch?

MQ: A classic wine pairing for a classic steakhouse. Consider the 2019 Obsidian Ridge &ldquo;Half Mile&rdquo; Cabernet Sauvignon from the Lake County of California. The grapes are grown on steep, volcanic hillsides, a half mile in elevation, allowing the grapes at this higher elevation to enjoy more warmth from the sun. The splash of Petit Verdot and Petit Syrah add to the rich aromas and flavors of prune, ripe blackberries, cassis, herbs, lavender, leather, and cocoa. The richness of this wine welcomes all rich dishes for any special occasion.

RT: Michaela Thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate Hy&rsquo;s Steakhouse&rsquo;s wine list. I can&rsquo;t wait to go try them myself. &nbsp;

To our audience, thank you all for joining us here on CorkRules.

If you would like us to review one of your favorite restaurants, please send us email to: <a href="mailto:Info@corkrules.Com">Info@CorkRules.Com</a> or visit our web website where we have a request form available and we will do our best to get it in the queue as quickly as possible.

We are looking forward to being with you on another CorkRules episode soon. In the meantime, please check out our website for other episodes of your favorite restaurant wine lists.&nbsp;

And finally, drink what you love and please make sure you drink responsibly.

Thank you.

&nbsp;

End

&nbsp;

BRAT

Bocca di Lupe

Gap Weekend: A Film Shoot in Wine Country

Alba Restaurant

Alba

10 Greek Street

L'Auberge Chez Francois

Andrew Edmunds

Salt Seafood and Oyster Bar

Matteos Ristorante Italiano

Matteo's

Lioco is a small production winery focused on producing wines that reflect their terroir and express the unique characteristics of each vintage. They work with small growers in California to source the highest quality fruit for their wines.

Luxury menswear retailer offers high-end clothing & accessories, plus a barbershop & private lounge.

Dante

Geronimo

La Mercerie

Bar Primi

Kirby’s Steakhouse

The Grill

homepage

CorkRules application allows you to discover wines at your favorite restaurants, learn with friends and be confident with price transparency. Order wine with confidence at restaurants and retailers. Get personalized recommendations. #DrinkWhatYouLove

Wingtip

Roederer Estate

Brut Rose, Anderson Valley NV

California, USA

Királyudvar

Tokaji Furmint Sec 2005

Blend

Tokaj, Hungary

Paul Pernot

Bourgogne Cote d'Or Chardonnay 2020

Chardonnay

Bourgogne, Burgundy, France

Ayala

Brut Majeur Champagne NV

Chardonnay

Champagne, France

Ernest Vineyards

Edaphos Aligote 2016

Aligote

Bennett Valley, USA

Caruso & Minini

Naturalmente Catarratto Bio 2018

Catarratto Bianco

Sicilia, Italy

Caruso & Minini Naturalmente Bio Catarratto Sicilia, Sicily 2018

Sicily, Italy

L'Envoye

Maison, Fleurie 2016

Fleurieu, Beaujolais, France

Cantina del Pino

Barbaresco 2015

Nebbiolo

Barbaresco, Piedmont, Italy

Cantina del Pino

Langhe Nebbiolo 2015

Montepulciano

Langhe, Italy

Lieu Dit

Melon 2017

Sauvignon Blanc

Santa Maria Valley, USA

Damijan Podversic

Kaplja, Venezia Giulia IGT 2010

Venezia, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy

Torre dei Beati

Giocheremo Con Fiori Pecorino, Abruzzo 2016

Abruzzo, Italy

Terlan

Cantina Terlano-Kellerei, Monticol Pinot Nero Alto Adige Riserva 2011

Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy

Poderi Aldo Conterno

Langhe, Rosso 2016

Langhe, Piedmont, Italy