Charles de Cazanove Champagne Brut NV

"For the last few years my house sparkling wine has been Roederer Estate Brut NV which I expected to serve during Thanksgiving dinner 2016. I was hoping to find something for late in the day, when the guests are inevitably schnockered, in order to save a few bucks. I found 2, each no more than 1 point inferior but 5 bucks per bottle cheaper - the Mumm Napa Brut Prestige NV and the Gloria Ferrer Blanc de Noirs NV (and the GF NV has the same taste profile as the Roederer NV - apple & peach - they'll never know!). Then on a lark, from the 90+ bubbly list, I tried the de Cazanove NV and found that I preferred it by 1 point to the Roederer NV. Even though it costs 2 bucks per bottle more; my nefarious plan is to switch to the Mumm NV later in the day. This will work because the taste profile of the de Cazanove and Mumm are similar (toast & mango). So this Thanksgiving I'll push the high/low pairing of de Cazanove / Mumm and keep the Roederer / Gloria Ferrer pairing in reserve."

"Very interesting...French champagne from Cazanova! Priced well, goes nicely with hors d'oeuvres, is a surprise to the drinkers! Had a number of compliments about the champagne when it was served. But definitely order it again."