I love jelly and ice cream as much as the next big kid but it does tend to hamper the wine matching process.
So this week I was a wee bit stuck in terms of what to write about until a lovely customer reminded me that I haven't mentioned champagne in a while ... as if an excuse was needed.
Happily, champagne is one of those perfect drinks that can go with anything if you put your mind to it. Madame Bollinger said that she drank champagne when she was happy or sad, alone or in company. She also occasionally partook when she was hungry, or not - and always when she was thirsty. Treat yourself to a bottle of the ethereal Bollinger RD 1996 (The Good Spirits Company, £128) and you'll see why she loved it so much.
James Bond is also a champagne fan. My favourite quote is from Goldfinger when he says: "My dear girl, there are some things that just aren't done, such as drinking Dom Perignon '53 above the temperature of 38 degrees Fahrenheit. That's just as bad as listening to the Beatles without earmuffs!" Subsequently I always ensure my Dom Perignon (Majestic Wine Warehouse, £120) is at the correct temperature.
But you don't need to take out a second mortgage to enjoy some decent fizz. Here are a couple of more affordable options to try this weekend.
Oudinot Cuvee Rose Brut (M&S, £26). This comes from Epernay in the wonderful Champagne region, and it has a lovely crisp, clean strawberry fruitiness. Pol Roger Reserve NV (Majestic Wine Warehouse, £30). This is a great price for one of my favourite fizzes. Buy some before June 11, when the price goes back up to £42.
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