8 Bubblies for Valentine’s Day

Whether you’re newly smitten or an old faithful, chances are a bottle of bubbly will add some effervescence to your love life. So, here’s the lowdown on some great bottles to not only show you care but that you have great taste too.

Moët et Chandon NV Impérial Brut (Champagne, France)

This one is quiet at first, with light, bready notes. It's medium-bodied and with an almost round, creamy texture. A straightforward and well-made Champagne, great with food or without. ($51)

Pierre Sparr NV Réserve Brut (Alsace, France)

Very fizzy, with a nice yeasty, fruity (pears and peaches) nose. This is smooth and creamy on the palate, with a perceptible sweetness. Good body, with a long finish. Serve it on its own or with spicy appetizers. ($30)

Jacob's Creek NV Brut Cuvée Chardonnay Pinot Noir (Australia)

A pale and subtle, fruity nose. It has a straightforward palate that is nice and clean. Though little lacking in definition, it is a great value wine especially for mimosas. ($14)

Hungaria NV Grand Cuvée Brut (Hungary)

This has a simple, candied fruit nose, with a palate that is drier than expected. The flavours are very fruity and peachy, with acid and grassy notes. A good value pick for sparkling cocktails. ($14)

Zardetto NV Prosecco Brut (Conegliano, Italy)

Look for fresh pear and apple, with floral and slightly grapey aromas, and a touch of almond and toast. It has good prickliness and crispy acid, and has a nice, mineral-laden finish. ($20) (by Tom Firth)

Carpenè Malvotti NV Extra Dry Cuvée (Prosecco, Italy)

Expect lime, Granny Smith apple and granite on the nose and a palate that is a little tart, with apple peel, tropical fruit and a mineral finish. This is a well-made prosecco from a good producer. ($25) (by Tom Firth)

Banfi 2008 Rosa Regale (Piedmont, Italy)

This classic "dolce" wine is cherry red in colour, with light carbonation. It has a complex raspberry, floral and spicy nose that is very enticing. The palate is clean, fresh and sweet, but balanced, with a combination of acidity and soft tannins. And it’s only seven per cent alcohol. ($29)

Evans & Tate NV Zamphire (Margaret River, Australia)

This Aussie bubbly has a berry, tropical fruit, ripe apple and buttery-pastry nose. Medium-bodied, rich and creamy on the palate, this is a stylish and tasty bubbly, with good length. ($21)

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