I hate to use the C-word before November is out. But I know what I’ll be drinking in the last week full of December. A crémant – France’s other sparkling wine. A number of French wine regions produce crémants. They’re made the same way as Champagne, though often with different grapes.
However, my choice for festivities this year will be a bit of a Champers lookee-likee – a Cave de Lugny Crémant de Bourgogne Blanc de Blancs NV from Oddbins. For £11.50, I’d far rather be sipping this cost-conscious but delicious Chardonnay fizz than some angular, tart “bargain” Champagne.
That’s also why I’ve chosen it for my contribution to the latest Bloggers’ Case with Oddbins. This time around, you can buy a case of six single bottles or get two of each, including a zesty Austrian Riesling and a velvety, fragrant US Pinot Noir.
I had flirted with a crémant from the Loire, but the slim, gentle curves and persistent finish of the Bourgogne won me over. And it conjured up an instant image in my head: Pippa Middleton’s derrière enveloped in silk crepe at the royal wedding.
This is a stylish and shapely crémant with a texture that drapes itself over your tongue. It is creamy and apple soft with a nutty, refreshing lemon bite and a delicate mousse. Very enjoyable on its own, it would partner easily with a number of light starters. Or even the turkey. Why not?
Like Ms. Middleton in that dress, it is in danger of stealing the show if served at seasonal get-togethers.