Occasions to break out sparkling wine evoke anticipation and result in special memories, whether celebrating an anniversary, a new beginning, or a toast at a holiday gathering. “Bubbles” are indeed a happy beverage and they pair beautifully with darn near any dish or hors d'oeuvre.

Sparkling wine in any number of varying styles and originating regions can be a magical addition to any special gathering. In thinking about the holiday season, these are some of our favorite small growers and family made “bubbles” from the Champagne region. Thanks to Chef Carrie, we've also suggested bite-sized accompaniments, featuring some hors d'oeuvres from our recent Food & Wine Show. 

CHAMPAGNE PAIRINGS

PEHU SIMONET FACE NORD EXTRA BRUT GRAND CRU

From Montagne de Reims, fourth generation producer David Pehu makes extremely intense, thoughtful wines that are produced organically. A blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this wine is bone dry with hazelnut, dried flowers, cherry, and hints of green apple.

Pairs well with: Salty flavors like a charcuterie tray or Truffle Potato Chips.

H. BILLIOT FILS GRAND CRU ROSÉ

Laetitia Billiot is the fourth generation to make these beautiful wines from Ambonnay, France. This lovely rosé is a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay that shows raspberry, chalk, and Marcona almond nuances. 

Pairs well with: Savory yet creamy flavors like Toketti Sardinian Flatbread Crisps and Camembert. Try making Trout Roe With Herb Butter!

MARC HEBRART PREMIER CRU 

Jean-Paul Hébrart makes this Brut-style Blanc de Blancs in Mareuil-Sur-Ay from pure Chardonnay fruit. It exudes toasty bread dough nuances with notes of green aromatics, such as basil, and tree fruits. 

Pairs well with: Shellfish, like shrimp, oysters, and Mini DLM Crab Cakes.

JEAN NOEL HATON BRUT RESERVE

Jean Noël and his son Sébastien make this lovely wine with winegrowers in their family dating back to the 1600s! This blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier is dry and complex with hints of peaches, citrus, and hazelnuts. 

Pairs well with: Grilled salmon or ahi tuna. Or, enjoy alongside Goat Cheese Pops!

PIERRE GIMONNET & FILS CUIS PREMIER CRU

A Brut-style Blanc de Blancs grown and made by Didier Gimonnet and his family. This pure Chardonnay is grown on chalky soil and is delicate and creamy with minerality. 

Pairs well with: Foie gras de canard and a cheese plate. Or, try making French Ham Canapés.

GASTON CHIQUET TRADITION PREMIER CRU 

Nicolas Chiquet makes these great wines on his family farm, which traces back to 1919. A blend of Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, it is both fermented and aged in stainless steel to showcase its extremely expressive fruit in pure form. 

Pairs well with: The decadent flavors of lobster and caviar. Enjoy with Caviar Deviled Eggs!