Let’s pop the corks! Champagne expert Robert Sponer-Triulzi reveals what makes high-quality sparkling wine and how to serve it in style. We also present three exquisite cocktail creations for the festive season.
“The magical effect of a champagne begins with the characteristic pop – that unmistakable moment that signals: Now it’s going to be special,” says Robert Sponer-Triulzi. Champagne makes you happy, emphasizes the owner of the “1130Wein” wine shop and proven champagne specialist: “It has an energizing effect, which is not least due to the special chalk soils of Champagne, which have a proven invigorating effect.”
From Premier to Grand Cru: recognizing quality features
For the qualified sommelier, who has been running his vinotheque since 2004, the differences in the quality of sparkling wines are crucial. “From standard to premier to grand cru – the highest quality levels are characterized in particular by traditional bottle fermentation,” he explains. Another important quality feature is the storage period on the fine lees, which can also be seen on the label. While Prosecco is often matured inexpensively in steel tanks, higher-quality varieties undergo a second fermentation in the bottle.
The right drop for every occasion
Especially at Christmas time, it’s worth reaching for a special bottle. A high-quality sparkling wine underlines the festive nature of the moment. “The holidays are perfect for fine wines,” says Sponer-Triulzi. As an aperitif at a family meal, for example, the expert recommends a Blanc de Blancs made from Chardonnay with its fresh, lemony note, such as from Larmandier-Bernier or Philippe Gonet.
A Blanc de Noir made from red grape varieties, on the other hand, goes well with dessert. “It tastes rounder, softer and is more digestible.” Excellent Blanc de Noirs producers include Bollinger, Jacquesson and Louis Roederer.
If you are unsure about what to choose, it is best to seek advice from a specialist retailer. There you will find the right festive companion for every taste and budget. “The great thing about champagnes is that no two are the same. Each one has its own distinctive character,” says the professional.
Stylish serving made easy
Once the right wine has been selected, it’s all about the perfect presentation. Presentation is everything, as the expert knows: “Silver wine coolers half-filled with ice are the perfect way to showcase the bottles.” When opening a bottle indoors, he advises restrained elegance by removing the cork in a controlled manner and without any great spectacle. Outdoors, you can really make a splash. Traditional sabering with a sword or knife creates a similar show effect – always at a safe distance, of course. A highlight that perfectly rounds off the festive enjoyment.
Recipes for festive cocktail creations with champagne
Classic Kir Royal – a recommendation from champagne expert Robert Sponer-Triulzi
- 1 cl crème de cassis
- Champagne to fill up
- Garnish: a fresh raspberry
Pour the crème de cassis into a chilled champagne flute and carefully top up with ice-cold champagne. Garnish with a raspberry.
Winter champagne pomegranate
- 2 cl pomegranate syrup
- 1 cl Cointreau
- Champagne
- Garnish: pomegranate seeds, sprig of rosemary
Stir the syrup and Cointreau in a champagne glass and top up with chilled champagne. Garnish with pomegranate seeds and a sprig of rosemary.
Festive champagne orange
- 1 cl Grand Marnier
- 2-3 drops of orange bitters
- Champagne
- Garnish: orange zest
Pour the Grand Marnier and orange bitters into a chilled champagne glass, top up with champagne and garnish with an elegantly twisted orange zest.
The top 3 champagne accessories:
Our MYHOME.AT expert
Robert Sponer-Triulzi has been running his vinotheque since 2004 and offers an exquisite selection of wines and sparkling wines as well as an extensive range of catering services. The qualified sommelier, who discovered his passion for wine at the age of 14, attaches particular importance to personal advice and fair prices.
http://www.1130wein.at/page/homepage
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