Champagne
Champagne traditionally refers to sparkling wines from the region of France by the same name, although in the US the term has become somewhat generic. Most Champagnes are non-vintage, a term describing a bottle that has been blended with the result of many year's harvests. If the wine house determines that a particular year's batch is of sufficient quality, then a vintage release will be made. Champagne is typically produced from a blend of chardonnay, pinot noir, and meunier grapes, although, more rarely, five other varietals are permitted.
Champagnes, as with most sparkling wines, tend to pair well with a variety of appetizers, both mild and strong cheeses and hold up particularly well to most salty dishes or snacks. Bubbly wine is generally more versatile than still wines for pairing with food, making it an ideal celebratory drink that may accommodate occasions ranging from New Year's Parties to weddings.
