With so many celebrations at this time of year- it can sometimes be a bit baffling as to what to buy for everyone to enjoy. And with most people working to a tight budget you want to get the best possible wine for the best price. So where do we start?
The first thing that helps me when choosing a wine, whether it be bubbles or not, is who am I going to be drinking this wine with? If it's amongst friends then you will generally already know what they love, like or even hate! Don't stray too far from what they enjoy unless you know they like change - if they do, go for anything within your budget. If it's with people who you may not know very well, I always go with what I like, as when you like something it's easier to talk about it and get everyone involved. In general, although a crowd will love a well known name - more and more people are wanting something a little bit different and want to have 'The next big thing'. Therefore, go with your gut instinct - if you like something, chances are so will the majority of who you will be drinking your wine choice with.
My recommendations for this time of year are pretty varied as you may want bubbles to just enjoy with your friends at the end of a busy week, or you may be wanting them to celebrate. Either way, all that matters is that you can enjoy your experience and not feel daunted by what is on offer around you.
For those who are looking for something that little bit special
Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut is 'The Summer Drink'. Perfect for celebrations and with no dosage, this crisp and vibrant champagne was made for those hot sunny days. The perfect partner to fresh oysters and shellfish platters - you can imagine yourself sitting with sun beating down on your face and relaxing with a chilled glass of this exquisite wine (and with no dosage - less calories!)
My next choice for summer is our signature sparkling wine from South Africa,
Kaapse Vonkel Brut by Simonsig. This sparkling wine is made with the same grapes as those used to make Champagne and is also made using the same method. This is the ultimate alternative to Champagne in my opinion as it still has all the elegance and full flavours but does not have the weighty price tag to go with it. In fact, this wine is so good I have friends who work for other wine companies asking me to bring a bottle of this whenever I pop round!!!
Finally, my 3rd choice would be our
Prosecco Valdobbiadene from San Giovanni. This may be slightly more expensive than your regular Prosecco but the extra pennies are definitely worth it. This wine oozes sophistication with enticing and seductive flavours of apples and pears and a soft and delicate mousse. A great end of week drink to have with friends and family.
So raise a glass of bubbles to our 'summer' - carry on with your celebrations and party in style!
