Champagne Nicolo & Paradis Brut NV

Our resident wine expert, Sarah, criss-crossed the caves of Champagne in search of the best (and best-priced) quality-driven sparkler for festive celebrations. And this quest led her to…

…the Côtes des Bar, a once-forgotten area that’s now the hottest region in Champagne. It’s home to talents like Cédric Bouchard, whose top releases now command over $1,000…per bottle.

But Sarah uncovered an independent family estate that’s producing wines of superb quality, at more-than-fair prices.

Nicolo & Paradis is a small domaine founded in 1951 by Henry Nicolo. Third-generation David Nicolo and his wife, Agnès, are now at the helm, tending sustainably grown vines that lie on perfectly situated, south-facing slopes.

This is Pinot Noir land, and their gold-medal Brut is a blend of 70% Pinot Noir, 20% Meunier and 10% Chardonnay. Patiently aged three years (vs the 15-month minimum), it’s “full of bright fruit and toasty richness, carried on a wave of delicate bubbles,” raves Sarah.

Stock up now for special holidays, gifting and more. Cheers!