Sparkling Wine: Champagne is sparkling wine, but not all bubbly is Champagne. Confused? In order to be called Champagne, a wine must come from the Champagne region of France. But that doesn’t mean that other bubbles are inferior. Great sparkling wines come from Spain, Italy, Australia and the United States.

  • Foods to pair with Sparkling Wine: There are two types. For Blanc de Blanc, try popcorn, potato chips, caviar, bacon and eggs. Brut Champagnes are great with cheeses, fish in cream sauce and even chocolate chip cookies.
  • Names to try: Perrier Jouet (France), Iron Horse (USA), Gosset - pronounced Go Say - (France), Gloria Ferrer (USA)

So bring on those wine lists and pick the perfect wine! Nothing says you know what you’re doing like recommending a Latour Chardonnay for your date to try with his steamed lobster. Keep exploring and expanding your wine IQ, and soon you’ll be recommending your own favorite grapes and pairings. California Cab with that casserole, anyone?

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