We asked for recommendations from local experts Eric Tuverson of Moore Brothers Wine Company in Wilmington and Dean Cesario of Deerfield Fine Wines in Newark. Prices listed are per bottle.
Less expensive
Tuverson: Bele Casel Prosecco, $16
“I can’t imagine someone not liking this Prosecco, and it goes with anything you put on the table.”
Cesario: Domaine Saint Vincente Brut, $13
“For the champagne drinker who is really just starting out. It is not as dry as a true champagne. It has a lot of fruit to it, but good mineral, too, and just a hint of white grapefruit. What makes it unique is that it’s from New Mexico.”
Moderate
Tuverson: Gasnier Cravantine Brut, $22
This pink sparkling wine is of the Chinon appellation from France’s Loire Valley. “The wine has a beautiful aroma of wild strawberries and red currants. It’s very fragrant.”
Cesario: Heidsieck & Co. Monopole Blue Top, $30
A true French Champagne, it is 70 percent Pinot Noir, 20 percent Pinot Meunier and 10 percent Chardonnay. “A nice assortment of fruit with a little bit of dryness. This is the first Champagne to get a 91 percent from Wine Enthusiast.”
Pricier
Tuverson: Diebolt-Vallois Blanc de Blancs, $45
This French Champagne is made with 100 percent Chardonnay grapes. “It was my house wine when I was at Le Bec-Fin. It is very elegant, beautiful, with a refreshing acidity.”
Cesario: Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut, $45
“This is a unique Champagne. You will taste a little honey, some vanilla and citrus, but not overpowering. Just a hint of each.—TGM
