Charles De Fere Blanc Brut

If you found this searching for Charles de Fère Champagne, here’s the honest answer: it isn’t Champagne — it’s a French Blanc de Blancs Brut sparkling wine — but it’s made by the very same méthode traditionnelle, which is exactly why it delivers that classic Champagne character for around a third of the price.

Made entirely from white grapes and aged on its lees for at least 12 months, it pours a bright pale gold with a fine, persistent stream of bubbles. Expect crisp aromas of green apple, pear and citrus lifted by a subtle note of toasted bread and almond, then a dry, vibrant palate of lemon zest and white peach with a clean, mineral finish and lively acidity.

Serve it well chilled as an aperitif, pour it for a toast, or sit it alongside oysters, fish, shellfish or roast chicken. It’s also a superb base for a Mimosa or French 75. Genuine traditional-method sparkle, made for everyday celebrating.