Somehow we equate sparkling wine with champagne, but there are so many other sparkling wines in France alone that are at least as good as champagne. If the weather demands it, I am quite happy with a glass of crémant de Bourgogne, Vouvray, a Spanish cava, or otherwise the Italians make delightful prosecco.

If we are speaking in extremes, then yes, the nicest bottle of Champagne blanc-de-blancs might best the lot. However, that would indicate that we have largely fallen for the marketing trick. Champagne as an AOC has paid a lot to keep it exclusive. Meanwhile, neighboring vignerons with terrific bottles are locked out and can't sell their bottles for half what a mediocre champagne goes for.