Any tasting that has these bottles in the line up is going to be a good time:
The premise today was even more fun – how to pair Champagne with your Thanksgiving dinner, from the second someone walks in the door to the last bite of pie. At the helm, none other than Dale Cruse himself, a man on a yearlong Champagne Campaign to drink a glass of bubbles every day for a year.
TJ and I have never incorporated Champagne into our Thanksgiving celebration and after today we were left scratching our heads wondering, “WHY?” This year we will definitely be pulling out some bubbly. Intrigued but still intimidated? Here are Dale’s suggestions for how to pull it off.
Nicolas Feuillate “Blue Label” (Epernay)
“Be thankful for your guests when they arrive. This 40% Pinot Noir, 40% Pinot Meunier, & 20% Chardonnay blend is fresh, smooth, & balanced – just like your cool friends & family.”
Henriot “Souverain” (Reims)
“As Champagne goes, Henriot is a big one, full of citrus, vanilla, & fruit. As you’re starting to nosh, this blend – which varies year to year – will light the way.”
Guy Larmandier Brut Blanc de Blancs (Cramant)
“This 100% Chardonnay Champagne is toasty, yeasty, & totally rocks it out with carbs. Think about pairing with dinner rolls, mashed potatoes & corn & stuffing.”
Ruinart Rose (Reims)
“Now we’re getting extra serious. Don’t be afraid of the pink stuff – these 55% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay bubbles will stand up to cranberry sauce, duck, lamb, bluefin tuna, & even steak! Be prepared, turkey!” [This is coming to Thanksgiving with me...]
Louis Roederer “Carte Blanche” (Reims)
“I know how it is: You need time to loosen your pants before dessert. This 40% Pinot Noir, 40% Pinot Meunier, 20% Chardonnay blend is the perfect bridge to the sweet stuff.”
Veuve Cliquot Ponsardin “Demi Sec” (Reims)
“Save some room for dessert! Once upon a time all Champagne was sweet so this Veuve Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier blend can either pair with dessert – or be dessert!”
Many thanks to Dale for leading us in this unique and fun tasting. You’re inspiring us all to reach for a glass of Champagne every day, because every day is an occasion!
Lovely! I am so sorry to have missed this. A day of drinking bubbly sounds like something to be thankful for. . . and can make a day of relatives more bearable if necessary!
Comment by Meghan@travelwinedine — November 7, 2010 @ 12:48 am