The wine world is full of foreign terminology, but there is no reason for anyone to be intimidated by words such as méthode champenoise, pupitre, sur lies, tirage, muselet…

Why? Because we have google and smart phones! It is very easy to quickly get a word’s meaning and pronunciation. Rather than being intimidated, why not enjoy the romance and mystique of wine words – especially when they are Champagne-related! If there is one type of wine that communicates celebration, romance and joie de vivre, it is sparkling wine.

But sparkling wine is much more than a French term or a festive glass, it is also an exceptional partner on the dinner table.

Usually consisting out of a predominant blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Champagne and its global equivalents such as the South African Méthode Cap Classique, can be a wonderful companion to food. It is the intrinsic character of the individual elements and how they blend and mature, that often result in an outstanding versatility when it comes to food pairings.