Champange Tasting

Champagnes, etc.

Shaham and Margo were kind enough to host a last-minute pre-millenium party champagne tasting on December 18, 1999. The results were somewhat unexpected. The clear winner was Perrier Jouet, a bargain at $29 compared to the runner-up, the 1992 Dom Perignon. There was a wide gap to third place for the Paul Cheneau "Cava",, with a rather weak taste, but rather affordable at $7. The other four bottles were closely bundled at the bottom, with a a red sparkler from Australia and a sweet Asti Spumante mixed with classic champagnes.

Results

Champagne	Total Score (lower is better)	Best Votes	Worst Votes	Cost
Perrier Jouet Grand Brut, France	23	5	0	$29
Dom Perignon 1992, France	33	2	0	$95
Paul Cheneau "Cava", Blac de Blanc, Spain	43	2	2	$7
Jacquesson & Fils 1993 Grand Cru, France	49	0	2	$35
McClaren Vale Sparkling Shiraz, Australia (red)	51	0	3	$19
Schramsberg Brut (Blac de Noirs), Napa Valley	54	0	1	$26
Martini & Rossi Asti Spumante, Italy (sweet)	55	2	3	$10

Comments

Perrier Jouet Grand Brut, France

Strong yet silky. Impressive in boldness yet not offensive to anyone. A distinctive winner.

Dom Perignon 1992, France

Traditional, with tiny bubbles, a medium palette, and well-liked by all. Can't go wrong drinking Dom.

Paul Cheneau "Cava", Blac de Blanc, Spain

Very soft and easy, but with some linger. Impressive value at $7/bottle, and can go with a variety of foods or stand-alone.

Jacquesson & Fils 1993 Grand Cru, France

A medium and balanced champagne without much after-taste.

McClaren Vale Sparkling Shiraz, Australia (red)

Sparkling grape juice with alcohol - currently a fad.

Schramsberg Brut (Blac de Noirs), Napa Valley

Tart like unripe granny smith apples.

Martini & Rossi Asti Spumante, Italy (sweet)

Very sweet and sugary - actually preferred by those with a true sweet tooth, who will find this a bargain at $10 or less.