Despite what the French may tell you, 'Champagne' wine was not invented by the famed monk Dom Pérignon - it was the English! It is largely thanks to 17th-century scientist Christopher Merrit and the superior glass production techniques in England that we have champagne today; though the myth of Perignon stuck better than the truth, and his name is now associated with the prestige cuvee of Moet & Chandon. Now 'Champagne' can refer only to sparkling wine of a certain style, produced in the Champagne region. But while it's the most famous type, don't overlook the extraordinary range of other sparkling wines available, like prosecco and methode traditionelle.
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The red berried, broader version of this customer favourite. Try with a big bowl of cherries as starter before you kick of a meal for some serious oohing and aaahing from the guests.$18.95 Bottle
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This Cremant de Limoux Brut Rose is a popular traditionally-made sparkling rose.$25.95 Bottle
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Fruity, floral notes of blossom, apple, pear and hints of ripe red berry fruits .Fresh lemon and appley complexity and a crisp, clean finish.$23.95 Bottle
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Produced by the family owned house based in Ay in Champagne. Full bodied with toasted brioche and nutty complexity. Five stars in Cuisine - October 2009.$114.95 Bottle
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Possibly the world's most famous Champagne. The cork is popped on a bottle of Moet somewhere in the world every sixty seconds! Perfect for any celebration.$69.95 Bottle
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A big mover here at MWs - the perfect bubbles to get the party started. Easy drinking, balanced and above all...fun!$18.95 Bottle
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Multi award winning Champagne from the Epernay house of Lanvin. Superb value and always popular! Crisp and refreshing.$54.95 Bottle
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Be as surprised as we were at this classy, balanced, fresh NZ Bubbly at the right price. Bottle fermented and a minimum of 9 months on yeast lees to add great depth and complexity.$15.95 Bottle
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Be afraid...add ice and you have one of the most astonishing things to leave France since Gerard Depardieu. Ice and a shade of residual sugar somehow make this impossible to put down$94.95 Bottle
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A balanced sparkling wine that's a cut above most of the green apple wonders at the same price. Great for parties,with seafood or at this price if the mood takes you, bathing in...$16.95 Bottle
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Spending 24 months on its lees rather than the usual 15 months, this is a toastier style with elegant citrus fruit, a slight creaminess and fine, soft bubbles.$18.95 Bottle
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Bright grape and green apple aromas, crisp and refreshing, yet a nice ripe fruit richness that makes this amazingly easy to drink. Just add peach nectar for the perfect Bellini!$18.95 Bottle