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

Sorellina

Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Sorellina in Boston. 

Wine List Review of Sorellina, Boston. 

Michaela Quinlan

Sorelina

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 Sorellina. If you are visiting Boston&rsquo;s Copley Square, then you must stop by Sorellina to experience classic Italian with a modern twist.

Michaela, I can&rsquo;t wait to hear what do you think of their wine list?

MQ: Sorellina takes great pride in their wines by the glass, extensive Italian-focused wine list, Somm&rsquo;s Select glass pour options, and knowledgeable staff. We have a number of new favorites and classics to explore with you today.

RT: That&rsquo;s really great, as you looked the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: Let&rsquo;s begin in Campania. One of my many favorite Italian white grapes in Falanghina. Do consider the 2020 Cantina del Taburno Falanghina. This medium bodied white wine is perfect to pair with shellfish, tuna, and salmon. The bright acidity, minerality, along with aromas and flavors of lime zest, green apple, and pear make this wine an excellent selection to kick off your dining experience.

RT: That is for sure unique. Did you find any others that caught your eye right away?

MQ: We have to head over to the Piedmont for a classic Nebbiolo. The 2019 Luigi Giordano &lsquo;Cavanna&rsquo; Barbaresco is a standout with its bright acidity, tart red cherries, smoke, round tannins, and classic herbal notes on the finish. This Nebbiolo is your go to selection to pair with pasta and richly sauced proteins.

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: To shift away from classic Italian wines for a moment, I had to stop when I spotted a favorite. The 2018 Ken Wright Cellars &lsquo;Savoya Vineyard&rsquo; from the Willamette Valley of Oregon. Ken Wright Cellars has been producing single vineyard Pinot Noir for over 40 years from 13 different vineyard sites. This particular Pinot Noir is from the Savoya Vineyard and showcases ripe blackberries, black cherries, cranberries, with herbs, spice, and a slightly smoky finish. This Pinot Noir will pair will with herbed and smoked dishes.

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: Another favorite, can&rsquo;t miss producer caught my eye. The 2019 Ridge &lsquo;Three Valleys&rsquo; Zinfandel from Sonoma County, CA. Since their start in 1988, Ridge has been producing knockout, highly rated wines. The &lsquo;Three Valleys&rsquo; represent the different vineyards where the grapes for this wine are grown, consisting of predominately Zinfandel, along with a bit of Petit Syrah, and Carignan. This medium to full bodied red features ripe red cherries, ripe raspberries, earth, spice, black pepper, soft tannins, and a long finish. Consider this Zinfandel blend to pair with richly sauced dishes and anything grilled.

RT: Ooh, Terrific. Michaela, speaking of price, sometimes people have a budget in mind. Any other great value wines you&rsquo;d point us to?&nbsp;

MQ: Now back to Italy. How can we discuss Italian wines without mentioning Pinot Grigio? An excellent quality and value selection is the 2020 Cantina Terlan Pinot Grigio from Alto-Adige in Northern Italy. This medium-bodied white wine features ripe pear, lemon zest, melon, green apple, with bright minerality on the finish. This is an excellent aperitif, or to pair with shellfish, all at an excellent price.

RT: That sounds great. What is your other value selection?

MQ: Let&rsquo;s move from Northern Italy to Southern Italy, specifically Puglia for another standout value wine. Consider the 2017 Masseria Altemura, Negroamaro. If you are looking for spice, look no further. Negroamaro is a red grape that features aromas and flavors of ripe plumb and fig, along with a bit of licorice and cocoa. Nutmeg and clove also come through thanks to the aging in French oak. Pair this red with richly sauced and herbed dishes.

RT: Now Michaela, what if I have a big client dinner or special occasion where I want to take it up a notch?

MQ: I find that Barolo is always an excellent choice to add to any celebration. Do consider the 2013 Viberti &lsquo;Bricco delle Viole&rsquo; Reserva Barolo. The grape in Barolo wines is Nebbiolo, and the Reserva designation means that the grapes have aged a bit longer than others, resulting in aromas and flavors of dried fig, ripe strawberries, and plumb, with spice and classic licorice on the long finish. You may wish to decant this wine, as the tannins are still quite firm. A wonderful addition to any event.

RT: Michaela Thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate Sorellina&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.

End

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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

Soalheiro is a family-owned winery located in the heart of the Vinho Verde region in Portugal. The winery is known for its high-quality Alvarinho wines, which are produced using sustainable farming practices and traditional winemaking techniques. Soalheiro's wines are characterized by their freshness, minerality, and complexity.

Fondue restaurant chain offering heated pots of cheese, chocolate or broth for dipping & cooking.

Craft

Craft L.A.

Barbrix

Wally's

The Belvedere

Spago Las Vegas by Wolfgang Puck

Spago

Jeune Et Jolie

Cucina Urbana

Rossoblu

Petit Trois

Cowboy Star

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

The Melting Pot

Charles Smith

Kung Fu Girl Riesling NV

Riesling

Walla Walla Valley (OR), USA

Placido

Moscato d’Asti NV

Moscato Bianco

Moscato d'Asti, Italy

Domaine Ste. Michelle

Michelle Brut Rose NV

Pinot Noir

Columbia Valley, USA

J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines

Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon NV

Cabernet Sauvignon

California, USA

Confetti!

Pinot Grigio NV

Pinot Grigio

Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy

Drumheller

Cabernet Sauvignon NV

Cabernet Sauvignon

Washington, USA

Salentein

Portillo Malbec NV

Malbec

Argentina

Francis Ford Coppola Winery

Diamond Collection Sauvignon Blanc NV

Sauvignon Blanc

California, USA

Starborough

Sauvignon Blanc NV

Sauvignon Blanc

Marlborough, New Zealand

Maso Canali

Trentino Pinot Grigio NV

Pinot Gris

Trentino, Italy

Zen of Zin

Old Vine Zinfandel NV

Zinfandel

Sonoma County, USA

Nevio

Montepulciano d'Abruzzo NV

Montepulciano

Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, Italy

Kendall-Jackson

Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay NV

Chardonnay

California, USA

Sans Liege Wines

Groundwork Grenache Blanc NV

Grenache Blanc

Paso Robles, USA

Michael David Winery

Petite Petit NV

Petite Sirah

California, USA