Bob Campbell: Delicious Champagne from Mumm & Pernod Ricard

Mumm Marlborough NV Brut Prestige $35<br />Why I chose it:<br />- Thought I’d go out with a bang on my last pick for 2021<br />- A collaboration between Mumm Champagne and Pernod Ricard NZ. A blend of 46% Pinot Noir, 45% Chardonnay and 9% Pinot Meunier.<br />- Think of it as a Kiwi wine with a slight French accent<br />- Open carefully by covering the cork with a napkin as you loosen the wire. Best to hold the bottle at 45 degrees.<br />What does it taste like?<br />- Delicately aromatic sparkler with lemon curd, citrus blossom, and baguette crust flavours. Seamless wine with a seductively ethereal texture and delicious mouth-tingling acidity.<br />Why it’s a bargain:<br />- Champagne prices start at around $50 while good NZ Methode (bottle-fermented sparkling wine made using the champagne process) starts at around $30. It is champagne quality at a local Methode price.<br />Where you can buy it?<br />- Glengarry, Super Liquor, New World and Liquorland all have it at $29.99. That’s a very good price but shop around and don’t forget to ask for a bulk discount if you plan to buy six or more bottles.<br />Food match?<br />- Freshly shucked oysters garnished with a squeeze of lime is my favourite, but it is a versatile food match.<br />Will it keep?<br />- Not in my house. It is probably as good as it is going to be but no rush<br />LISTEN ABOVE