Written by Michael Bray, July 15 2016

Sparkling wine is still the go-to beverage for New Year’s Eve and special life events such as a promotion, a new boat, a wedding toast and if your LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers you celebrate your victory by spraying one another with Moet & Chandon Champagne.

However, recent consumption proves that people are finding more ways to celebrate and for good reason. The quality, price and drinkability of sparkling wine is better than ever. But before we get into what some of our locals are drinking, here are some key points that will help you navigate:

True Champagne only comes from the Champagne region in France. So, if that’s not what you want, try using the phrase “sparkling wine” instead. Not only will you see more of a selection, you’ll see much better price points too.

There are two methods of Sparkling wine production: Méthode champenoise (or traditional method) & Charmat (or tank) process. Each delivers a unique style. The latter is the method of Prosecco (made in Italy), whereby first and secondary fermentation happens in a pressurized tank. The result is a lighter, fruitier style of wine, with less refined bubbles. Méthode champenoise undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, which translates to flavors of toastiness, nuttiness and yeastiness. Lastly, this labor intensive process is reflected in the price of Champagne.

Styles can range from dry (Brut) to sweet (sec or demi sec) so it’s important to know your preference. If it’s not stated on the label, be sure to ask. Remember, anyone who is genuinely passionate about wine, loves to field these type of questions.

Chester Malloy, GM of Circle Liquor Store in Somers Point, was quick to highlight his favorite “value Champagne” in Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut NV ($44.99/750ml btl). This wine is a perfect introduction to the category of (true) Champagne. The expression is a balance of both fruit and floral (think apple and orange peel) with a touch of toast on the mid palate. The wine finishes with a citrusy acidity that would pair beautifully with duck, root vegetables and salmon. For a more casual fair, try fried chicken.

My next stop was to see Sabrina Schatz, Sommelier at Bobby Flay Steak House at The Borgata. I was delighted to taste Crémant de Bourgogne Rose from Bailly Lapierre ($15/glass, $60/750ml btl). It is made in Burgundy, France and the grapes they use are Pinot Noir and Gamay. Fresh and lively, it delivers full red ripe fruit aromas and a rich and round finish. While any seafood pairing will do, Sabrina recommended the Lobster and Crispy Squid Salad and it was absolutely dynamite!

Last stop, the infamous and newly renovated Dock’s Oyster House. Wow! If you haven’t been, you must. Per Assistant GM, Maddy Vetrini, I tried the Casa Gheller ‘G’ Silver Prosecco NV ($10/glass, $40/750ml btl). Nothing overly complex, which is the beauty (and value) of Prosecco. Simple, profound, fresh and clean. Fruit notes of apple and pear. Grab a glass and an assortment of broiled oysters and you’re livin’.

If you’re looking for more residual sugar (sweetness) in your sparkling wine, try Braida Moscato d’Asti or Banfi Rosa Regale Brachetto d’Acqui.

Whatever your sparkling preference, don’t wait for a major moment – Celebrate here now.