Celebrate in style

How to choose the right drinks for your guests.

Planning a wedding or a special anniversary party is a great excuse to experiment with Champagnes, as well as sparkling wines, including prosecco and cava.
Look out for discounts and always check the size of the case: Champagne frequently comes in a 6-bottle case not a 12-bottle case. Think about ordering magnums (1.5 litres) - they look dramatic, and the wine stays younger longer. All Champagnes will improve if you store them for 3 months at home in good conditions - avoid extremes of hot and cold.
What to buy? At the top end are Bollinger or Krug. Less well-known, but of very good quality is Billecart-Salmon, Â£24.99 a bottle, from Oddbins. Other names in this range are Gosset, Henriot, Pol Roger and Taittinger. Easier on the pocket are the supermarkets' own brands, especially Tesco, Marks & Spencer and Waitrose. Shop websites are worth visiting as offers change monthly.
If you would like a trip to Calais, plan it beforehand with internet research. There are good deals, but you won't be able to hire glasses or arrange sale or return.

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