The bubbly types by Jancis Robinson, Financial Times Magazine, 26/27 NOVEMBER 2011
Chartogne-Taillet NV
Bravo to quality-conscious growers like this who give consumers maximum information on the back label such as exactly what went into the blend (80% from the 2006 vintage, 60% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir). Very fresh on the nose yet with deep flavours. Serious stuff from the village of Merfy. Exceptionally persistent. Great value.
£25.15 Vine Trail (by the case), £38.99 Selfridges (by the bottle)
Agrapart, Les 7 Crus NV
Blend of 2008 and 2007 from seven different well-placed vineyards, made with some oak. Light and delicate. Really lively. Whisper-clean and yet satisfying. The dosage was a modest 7g/l and the disgorgement date is given to help consumers and wine trade distinguish the bottling from others with the same name.
£27.50 Vine Trail (by the case), £39.99 Selfridges (by the bottle)
Jancis's top 100 festive wines
Don't miss Jancis's four-part series on what to drink over the festive season, updated on www.ft.com/robinson . See 3/4th December for the best reds