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

Alcove

Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit Alcove a neighborhood restaurant situated on the waterfront at Boston’s Lovejoy Wharf 

Wine List Review of Alcove, Boston

Michaela Quinlan

Alcove

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.

&nbsp;

RT:&nbsp;So, sit back and listen as we review your favorite wine list.

RT: Today we are talking about Alcove. Located in Boston&rsquo;s West End along the waterfront, Alcove features classic, coastal, New England fare. From shellfish, to seafood, to a pregame burger, Alcove is a must visit.

Michaela, I can&rsquo;t wait to hear what do you think of their wine list?

MQ: I enjoy reviewing the wine list at Alcove, as it organizes bottles by aromas and flavors. A simple way to help you navigate their selections. They also have a rotating Reserve List should you be interested in additional options. Today we have a selection of standout wines. Keep Alcove in mind for private dining, catering, and special occasions.

RT: That&rsquo;s really great, as you looked the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: The first wine to catch my eye was the 2017 Francois Chidaine &nbsp;&lsquo;Les Bournais&rsquo; Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley of France. Chenin Blanc is a beautiful, medium bodied white wine with bright acidity, citrus, ripe pear, with a mineral finish. Definitely a wine to consider to pair with hard cheeses and dense fish such as salmon and tuna.

RT: That is for sure unique. Did you find any others that caught your eye right away?

MQ: Staying in the Loire Valley, we know I can&rsquo;t pass by a Cabernet Franc. The 2018 Domaine Guiberteau &lsquo;Les Chapaudaises&rsquo; in the Saumur sub-region. I enjoy the balance of ripe blackberries, aromas of green olives, earth, with a mineral finish. This is an excellent consideration for herbed sauces and 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: Absolutely. If you are considering a Rose, then you must have a look at the 2021 Ameztoi &lsquo;Rubentis&rsquo; Txakolina from the Basque Region of Spain. The grape in this wine is hondarrabi zuri and features aromas and flavors of strawberries, watermelon, with a touch of salinity on the finish. This rose is dry with a hint of effervescence making it a perfect pairing with cheese and lighter fish 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: A consideration for the table to pair with dinner would be the 2020 La Soufrandiere &lsquo;Le Clos de Grand -Pere&rsquo; from the Macon in Burgundy, France. White Burgundy is always a winner, especially when pairing with a variety of fish and seafood dishes. While spending most time in stainless steel, this Chardonnay sees a short time aging in oak. This combination produces a medium bodied, rich wine featuring aromas and flavors of ripe green apple, pear, citrus, with a touch of vanilla from the oak on the finish.

When I mention vanilla from the oak, that means that this wine has aged shortly in French oak. French oak adds flavors of baking spices, vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon to the wine. Different styles of oak offer different flavors, leaving the winemaker to decide which style, and for how long the wine will age with each vintage.

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: Let&rsquo;s return to Spain for a bright, citrusy white wine. The 2020 Do Ferrerio from Rias Baixas. This Albarino showcases aromas of white flowers, lemon zest, grapefruit, with a bit of saline on the finish. This bit of saline makes this white wine a perfect companion to shellfish, all at an excellent price.

RT: That sounds great. What is your other value selection?

MQ: Another classic red wine that is always of great quality and value is the 2020 Domaine de Colette from Regnie, a sub-region of Beaujolais. This Gamay grape is similar in style to Pinot Noir with aromas and flavors of strawberries and cranberries, with spice and earth on the finish. A beautiful red wine that will pair well with all fish dishes and light proteins.

RT: Now Michaela, what if I have a big client dinner or special occasion where I want to take it up a notch?

MQ: As we bounce between France and Spain today, a standout, special occasion wine would be the 2016 Costers del Priorat &lsquo;Clos Alzina&rsquo; from Priorat. Red wines from Priorat are rich and full-bodied. The red grape in this bottle is samso, which is another name for carrignan or cinsault and features aromas and flavors of ripe blackberries, cassis, smoke, earth, with round tannins and notes of cocoa on the finish. This wine also ages in French oak, so you will be able to point out some of those baking spices we talked about earlier as well. A rich wine to add to lingering conversation.

RT: Michaela Thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate Alcove&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

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Mussel Bay is a family-owned winery located in the heart of Marlborough, New Zealand. They are known for producing high-quality wines with a focus on sustainability and minimal intervention winemaking. Their vineyards are located in the Wairau and Awatere valleys, which are known for their ideal growing conditions for Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.

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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

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