Champagne is so last century – at least that appears to be the verdict of the wine experts I’ve been speaking to recently.
Inspired by our wine blogger Geordie I’ve been researching sparkling white wine for our wedding. At first we were considering buying a cheap champagne, but having spoken to independent wine retailers Laithwaites and Quintessentially Wine we were encouraged to consider non champagne fizz.
We are not the only ones of course. According to Laithwaites the recession has inspired couples to look beyond champagne when toasting their nuptials. Tom at the Borough Market store told me: “We very rarely get couples coming in wanting to taste champagne. The fizz of choice at the moment is prosecco, a dry yet easy on the palate wine that’s ideal for summer weddings.”
The main difference between champagnes and other fizz is the method, of course. With a champagne you’ll find the bubbles last longer – it’s not called bubbly for nothing- but that to me anyway is the only noticeable difference. Champagne does tend to be a lot drier than most other sparkling wines, so choosing a different type of fizz could be a plus point if you are entertaining lots of fussy guests.
For my friends all four wines hit the spot, I liked them all too, but I did have two distinct favourites.
Marques de Portola Cava £7.99 from Laithwaites - I love cava, this was just right. It has that biscuity taste that makes it seem more expensive than it is. This would probably make a good aperitif (i.e. as our guests arrive at the reception).
Roche Lacour Cremant de Limoux £12.49 also from Laithwaites – If I had to choose this would come joint top with the Samur Brut. This is of course a French wine but has the freshness of some of the newer world offerings.
Papavero Prosecco £9.99 – For me this was a bit too fruity. But I can understand why it’s a popular wedding choice. I know a few of our guests who would enjoy this the best.
V Bouvet-Ladubay, Saumur Brut, Loire, France £9.95 from Quintessentially Wine – Bouvet Ladubay is owned by Champagne house Taittinger. Its made by the traditional method, but from Chenin Blanc grapes, which is probably why I liked it as much as the Roche Lacour.
So even when it comes to cheap(er) fizz, I still end up going for the most expensive one!
