Mr frogoutofwater and I acquired a taste for Champagne during a 2-year posting in Paris, where we could buy interesting, good value (e.g. 10-15 euro) Champagne from independent winemakers at twice-yearly Salons des Vins or during weekend trips. We got in the habit of regularly celebrating "everyday" moments - the end of the work week, the day the cleaning lady came, surviving encounters with the customer service staff of our telephone company, etc. Now that we're in New York, our stock of Champagne is dwindling and we needed a replacement. This sparkling wine is comparable in quality to some of the independent Champagnes we bought in France, although not as good as our favourites in this category (e.g. Harlin Pere & Fils or Bardy-Chauffert). It borders on the edge of being too tart. However, this should make it a good base for Kir Royales and other slightly sweet champagne cocktails.
