Nicolo & Paradis Tradition Champagne Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay, France

Champagne Nicolo & Paradis Brut is a dry sparkling white wine that bursts with aromas of orchard and citrus fruit, plus hints of toastiness. The palate is classic Champagne: bright and mouthwatering, balanced by delicious biscuity notes with a creamy texture and a fine mousse (bubbles).

Aperitif, seafood, poultry, butter/cream sauces, fried foods, cheeseboards.

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 Côte 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 exquisite 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.