A glass of fizz is a great way to kickstart the festivities at Christmas. Prices vary hugely depending on the kind of sparkling wine you prefer. Prosecco is the least expensive option. It is usually sweeter than other sparkling wines, which can make it attractive if you find sparkling wine too dry.
Good Champagne is the classic choice and adds a touch of luxury to proceedings. However, it can be very expensive, possibly only for more intimate gatherings. I always start Christmas day with a bottle. The Veuve Monsigny below is a great, less expensive Champagne, and the Lombard Grand Cru Brut Nature Champagne, €41 from Dunnes Stores, punches way above its weight. The Roederer below is another personal favourite. If money is really no object, the Philipponat Clos des Goisses (€365, Corkscrew, 64wine, Green Man, Morton’s) is one of the finest Champagnes I have tasted so far this year.
I feature one Crémant below, but most retailers will offer a few.
The Maria Casanova Cava (€25, independents) offers great value for money, but if you want to enjoy Spanish sparkling wine at its best, look out for the Llopart Brut Reserva (€38) or the Raventos I Blanc Blanc de Blancs (€38) both available in independents.
Salazar Crémant de Limoux NV
12%, €18.95 down from €21.95
A stylish, subtle, elegant sparkling wine with lemon zest, subtle brioche and peaches. Enjoy as an aperitif, with prawns or smoked salmon.
From O’Briens
Integrale Pét Nat Rosé Frizzante, Organic
10.5%, €19.95
A vibrant, fresh, lightly sparkling wine with juicy summer fruits and a crisp acidity. A great way to get the festivities going.
From Barnhill Stores, Dalkey; Mitchells, D2, D1, Glasthule, Avoca Kilmacanogue and Dunboyne; Ardkeen, Waterford; Cass & Co, Dungarvan; The Vintry, D6; The Mill Store, Rathnew
Veuve Monsigny No III, Brut Champagne
12.5%, €22.99
A fine mousse with fresh peaches and apples, subtle notes of brioche and a lightly creamy texture. Great value for money.
From Aldi
Champagne Louis Roederer Brut Collection 244
12.5%, €75
A wonderfully rich, creamy, complex Champagne with layers of toasted nuts, ripe fruits and brioche. Enjoy solo or with shellfish, salmon, or white meats – including turkey.
Widely available from independents, as well as Dunnes Stores and O’Briens
