Britain’s sparkling wine market is still worth £1.5bn and 140m bottles of bubbly are sold here each year. Most of the market is made up of prosecco, which has surged in popularity as a champagne alternative over the last few years.There are occasions, however when only champagne will do. Thankfully we found cause to celebrate and had Bollinger four times in the last year.

Tasting notes: Very pale yellow colour. Perfectly well balanced. Medium length finish. Complex notes of pear, brioche, walnuts and cream. Unusually has had some oak ageing. Delicate mousse, very fine bubbles. The blend is dominated by Pinot Noir.

Region of Origin – Champagne.
Wine Colour – White
Price – £35 – £50
Where do I get it from? Widely Available
Current Vintage – NV
Producer – Bollinger
Grape – 60% Pinot Noir, 25% Chardonnay, 15% Pinot Meunier
Country – France

Verdict – Very good champagne.

Food Pairing: Worked brilliantly without food. Could work with delicate canapes or seafood.