Embrace the Joys of Life: How French Sparkling Wine Elevates Your Senses
April 16, 2024
In the pursuit of a joyful and immersive life, we often seek experiences that tantalize our senses and elevate our spirits. French sparkling wines, with effervescence and complexity, offer not just a drink, but an opportunity to embrace the richness of life through the five senses.
The mission behind our wines is to elevate the everyday moments and inspire friends to #livejoyously. Let’s delve into how indulging in this exquisite beverage can transform ordinary moments into extraordinary sensory experiences.
Sight:
The moment a bottle of sparkling wine is uncorked, a visual spectacle unfolds. The bubbles dance gracefully in the glass, forming delicate trails of effervescence that mesmerize the eye. The golden hues of a classic brut or the pale pink blush of sparkling rosé evoke a sense of elegance and celebration. From the popping of the cork to the cascading bubbles in the flute, every sight associated with French sparkling wine ignites anticipation and joy.
Smell:
As the aroma of sparkling wines fill the air, it invites us on a sensory journey. The bouquet of freshly picked fruits, delicate floral notes, and hints of toasted brioche awaken the olfactory senses. Each whiff carries the essence of the terroir, reflecting the unique characteristics of the grapes and the winemaking process. Closing your eyes and inhaling deeply, you can almost envision the sun-kissed vineyards of the Champagne region or the picturesque landscapes of the French countryside.
Taste:
The first sip of a blanc de blancs brut or brut rosé is a revelation of flavor. The fine bubbles tickle the palate, accentuating the crispness and complexity of the wine. Whether it’s the citrusy zest of Chardonnay, the red berry undertones of Pinot Noir, or the refreshing acidity of Pinot Meunier, each grape variety contributes to a symphony of taste sensations. The balance of sweetness and acidity, the creamy texture, and the lingering finish create a harmonious blend that delights the taste buds and leaves a lasting impression.
Touch:
The tactile experience of holding a flute of French sparkling wine adds another dimension to the sensory journey. The delicate stem of the glass, the cool touch of the crystal against your fingertips, and the gentle effervescence tingling on your lips create a sensory symphony that enhances the overall enjoyment. With each sip, you can feel the effervescence dance on your tongue, creating a sensation of lightness and joy.
Sound:
Pop, Fizz, Clink: The Universal Sound Of Happy! Finally, the sound of celebration echoes with every clink of glasses and joyful laughter that accompanies the indulgence in French sparkling wine. Whether it’s a quiet evening at home with loved ones or a grand celebration marking a milestone, the sound of the bubbly being poured and the effervescent chatter of friends and family create a soundtrack of happiness and camaraderie.
In a world filled with hustle and bustle, embracing the five senses through the enjoyment of French sparkling wine offers a moment of respite and celebration. Easily upgrade your brunch experience or even a weeknight charcuterie board – don’t save the bubbly for just big milestones – LIFE is the occasion!
From the sight of dancing bubbles to the sound of joyous laughter, each sensory experience enriches our lives and reminds us to savor the simple pleasures. So, raise a glass, toast to the beauty of life, and let sparkling wines guide you on a journey of sensory delight and joyful living. Cheers to embracing the finer things in life!
Thirsty for more?
Embrace the French spirit of joie de vivre (joy of life). Our award winning wines were created to be approachable, affordable, and versatile to elevate the everyday and cultivate JOY. Both cuisine and cocktail friendly, these wines pair easily breakfast to dessert and make great wine cocktails. Low carb, low calorie, keto approved and vegan wines – they are also inclusive to most lifestyles and diets.
Discover the world of French sparkling wines: we’ve curated a collection of free downloadable ebooks which include guides for foolproof seasonal food & wine pairings, sparkling and rosé cocktail recipe booklets, elevated holiday parties, easy entertaining ideas, bridal look book, bubbly brunch party ebook, wine lover gift guides, fun party playlists, and more here.
Browse dozens of sparkling wine spritzer cocktail recipes in our free downloadable ebooks!
Sparkling wine is amazing in cocktails. Even a small splash of bubbles can brighten up a drink, enlivening or lifting its flavors and making it feel an awful lot more festive. Whether you are looking for cocktails for Brunch, a shower, a cocktail party, or an aperitif with friends, we have you covered with cocktails that go from brunch through to dessert.
Weddings/Events – As our name means ‘the great courtship’ we are perfect for bridal-related events, and the 187ml “mini wine bottle” offers a perfect party favor or guest amenity. LGC Signature Cocktails by Color/Theme
Le Grand CourtâgeWhat is the difference between sparkling wine and Champagne?
May 9, 2023
A question that we are often asked is, “What is the difference between “Sparkling Wine” and “Champagne”? Or “What is the difference between “Sparkling Wine” and “Prosecco”? The easy and short answer is that sparkling wine can only be called “Champagne” if it is made in the region of Champagne, France which is located just outside of Paris. To clarify, all Champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is Champagne. We really should think of Champagne in terms of a geographical location as opposed to just a winemaking style. For all products produced even 10 feet outside of the champagne region, it legally must be called “sparkling wine” however in other areas of the world, there are other names utilized for fizz ranging from prosecco, cava, sekt etc. In America, it must legally be called sparkling wine regardless of the grapes or the production method. Domestic sparkling brands like Chandon, Schramsberg or Roederer are produced in California.
For those that ponder “is sparkling wine champagne” or “what is the difference between sparkling wine vs. champagne”, one of the main distinctions is the price. Champagne is far more expensive than sparkling wine. France produces many fabulous effervescent sparkling wines and cremants, like Le Grand Courtâge, that are very affordable and offer a great bang for your buck compared to champagne.
Where Do The Bubbles In Champagne Come From?
Some people also ask if “champagne” or “sparkling wine” is wine, and the answer is yes. Sparkling wine starts off as still wine during the primary fermentation, and then the bubbles are produced during the secondary fermentation.
The primary fermentation converts the juice from the grapes to still wine, and then in the secondary fermentation, sparkling wine is made by a fermentation process that combines sugar and yeast to produce alcohol and CO2. The fermentation process for wine requires an enclosed or sealed environment so that the resulting gas from the secondary fermentation can escape. The carbon dioxide then returns into the wine released in the form of tiny bubbles after opening the bottle. In some cases, you’ll find lower-priced bubbly wines on shelves that are injected with bubbles, similar to soda, and these are not defined as sparkling wine in the proper, traditional context.
An Overview Of The Types Of Sparkling Wine & Champagne
Producers from every region of the world have seized upon the popularity of bubbly and the rising cost of champagne.
Champagne
Made in the ‘Champagne’ region approximately 1 hour from Paris. Champagne is made of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes. Legally, it can only be made using these three grapes and must be aged for a minimum of 18 months.
The iconic names associated with some of the best-selling champagne brands include Veuve Clicquot, Dom Perignon, Moet & Chandon, Nicolas Feuillatte, Bollinger, Tattinger, Laurent-Perrier and Piper-Heidsieck to name a few.
All of the below styles are ‘sparkling wines’ and present a great alternative to champagne. These are affordable, value sparkling wines, or what some call cheap champagne. That, however, is a misnomer and not correct, as there is no such thing, and it’s not legally correct.
Cava: In Spain, Cava is made in many different styles. But the best examples contain small bubbles and have a balanced taste of freshness and creaminess. Cava undergoes the same production process as Champagne, but with different grapes. Hailing from the Penedès region of northeast Catalonia, well known brands include Freixenet Sparkling Cordon Negro Brut Cava, Anna de Codorniu, Segura Viudas and Juve y Camps. The varietals utilized can include Macabeo, Xarel-lo, Parellada, Chardonnay, Subirat Parent, red Garnacha, Trepat, Monastrell and Pinot Noir.
Prosecco: The wines that sparkle in the Veneto region of Italy are called Prosecco and are made with 80% Glera grapes. These wines have larger bubbles and are produced in large tanks using a method called the Charmat. The best-known brand is La Marca Prosecco, and other brands include Mionetto, Ruffino, Caposaldo and our fav, Massotina.
Sekt: The sparkling wines of Austria and Germany are called Sekt. The wines are made using the tank method with fermentation in stainless steel. The grapes may range from Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Elbling, Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier. Sekt brands are not very well known in the U.S., but here are a few options to consider Hild Elbling, Schlossgut Diel, Dr. Loosen “Dr. L” Riesling Sekt, and Peter Lauer.
Crémant: France is known for its ‘Champagne’ in which the fermentation occurs inside each bottle. Crémant is a style of sparkling wine produced in France, but outside of Champagne using the “method champenoise” second fermentation. Unlike other Champagnes, Crémant typically has less atmospheric pressure which gives the bubbles a softer, creamier taste in contrast to the stark, bracing pop you get from Champagne. Depending upon where the crémant is produced, it may be chardonnay, pinot noir, chenin blanc, Sémillon. Sauvignon, Pinot Blanc, Auxerrois, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Aligoté or Cab Franc. Notable brands in the U.S. include Gerard Bertrand, JCB, Lucien Albrecht, Gratien Meyer and Louis Bouillet.
Now That You’ve Got A Better Understanding On All The Styles Of Sparkling Wine, Now Let’s Discuss Sweetness Levels, How To Serve Champagne And How To Pair It.
Determining The Sweetness Level Of Champagne
There are so many misconceptions about residual sugar, sugar content and sweet vs fruit forward wines. The majority of champagne or sparkling wines are quite dry in nature, but the lingo used is confusing.
The sweetest “champagnes” are dry or demi-sec. The majority of bubbles served in the U.S. tend to be Brut and have a nice finish of fruit without being sweet. Prosecco is much lighter and sweeter than traditional French sparkling wines or champagnes.
What Is Dosage?
The sweetness of sparkling is determined by the level of the final dosage, which is the sugar and wine mixture added to a sparkling wine after secondary fermentation to help balance out the acidity. This typically consists of a mixture of reserve wine and pure cane sugar. The quantity of dosage added determines the sweetness of the final product.
This chart we found from We Drink Bubbles should help serve as a refence for your next sparkling wine purchase. Brut Nature is the driest and Demi Sec is the sweetest.
Image courtesy of We Drink Bubbles
What Is The Best Glassware For Champagne?
People often believe that the best way to serve Champagne is in a flute or coupe. Actually, these two shapes aren’t best suited to expressing its full character! Choose a tall, bulbous glass with a narrow top, shaped like a tulip. Your champagne will then be able to best showcase all its aromas and fine bubbles.
Being bubbly lovers, we enjoy exploring various styles, grapes and expressions of sparkling wine from around the world. Given its versatility, it is really fantastic breakfast to dessert and is extremely cuisine and cocktail friendly. Sometimes referred to as the ‘scrubbing bubbles for the palate’ sparkling wine and champagne are quite delectable with anything greasy, fatty, fried or spicy (fried chicken is to die for) and yet delicate enough for egg dishes and sushi.
Many sommeliers will say sparkling wine or champagne is the most versatile and best option for wine and food pairing. If you are wondering what snack(s) goes well with champagne, look no further than the below list for both highbrow and low brow champagne and sparkling wine food pairing inspiration.
Top Pairings For Sparkling Wine
Appetizers
Almonds
Buttered or Truffled Popcorn
Cocktail Sausages
Duck-fat French fries
Egg Rolls & Spicy Asian appetizers
Egg-based hors d’oeuvres
Olives
Potato Chips
Prosciutto-wrapped Appetizers
Fried or Stuffed Mushrooms
Vegetables
Meat
Bacon
BBQ (esp Rosé)
Beef or Pork Sliders
Brisket Chili
Duck
Game
Foie Gras
Fried Chicken
Lamb
Prosciutto
Ribs
Roasted Chicken
Salami
Sweet Breads
Desserts
Angel Food Cake
Berries
Cheesecake
White Chocolate
Fruit-Based Desserts & Tarts
Mascarpone Cheese
Shortbread Cookies
Toffee
Rocca
Salted Caramels
Seafood
Crab Rangoons
Fish Tacos
Lobster
Raw Oysters
Shellfish
Shrimp
Smoked Salmon
Sushi
Crab
Brunch
Eggs Benedict
Mushroom, Bacon Omelets
Frittatas
Scrambled Eggs
Brioche French Toast with maple syrup (blanc) or berry syrup (rosé)
Fresh: Bright and alive in your mouth, fruity but not necessarily sweet. The flavor of a Brut or a Dry Champagne should be like a crisp apple, or melon profile, with a lovely aroma of stone fruit and slight minerality.
Precise: On the tongue, the wine should feel dreamy as the bubbles roll around your mouth. Precision is more about the acid, which is mandatory for good sparkling wines. This will give it a crisp mouth feel.
Sparkling: Small bubbles are a sign of high-quality wine. The best sparklers will have a constant path of uniform bubbles traveling from the bottom to the top. Less quality sparkling wine will have different sizes of bubbles taking different paths. (An imperfect wineglass can cause this also)
Sparkling wine can be some of the most versatile wines for pairing because of its bubbles that help scrub the palate. These wines transition well between light and heavy cuisines, so they make it easy to satisfy recipe pairings. They’re also great as aperitifs and with dishes that have a bit of fruitiness or sweetness.
Looking for champagne pairings or champagne cocktail inspiration? Hop over to our entertainment page for numerous downloadable guides and ebooks for effortless entertaining and to be the hostess with the mostess
About Us
At Le Grand Courtâge, we created a Vin Mousseux using the “Cuve Close” (“closed tank” method, otherwise known as the Charmat method) in order to create consistency in the style. Our 90+ point French sparkling wines are produced in Nuits St Georges in Burgundy, France. We offer a Blanc de Blancs Brut and a Brut Rosé and use Chardonnay, Ugni Blanc, Colombard, Chenin Blanc, and Gamay in our blends in order to offer a dry, crisp, light palate with just a hint of fruit and floral on the finish in order to create a balanced flavor profile. We wanted to create something which is extremely cuisine and cocktail-friendly.
Tawnya Falkner, the American female founder and CEO of Le Grand Courtâge and Très Chic, took the leap and moved to France with the intent to create an affordable luxury that celebrates and elevates every day and reminds people to live joyously. Her goal was an approachable, affordable, versatile French bubbly that is perfect for all of life’s occasions and everyday moments. Cheers!
Like this article? learn more about the brand or get entertaining inspiration on our instagram at @legrandcourtage and @treschicrose
A Guide to Rosé: What it is, How it is Made and What it Pairs With
April 11, 2023
In this guide learn how pink wine is made, how the grapes & colors define the taste & what rose pairs well with in each season!
Although Rosé wine has been enjoyed for centuries, its popularity has surged in recent years, and we now celebrate with phrases like “Rosé all Day” and “Yes Way Rosé”. The French even have their own term “rosé tout l’année” which translates to “Rosé all year round”. We’ve even got the boys covered with “Brosé”, which Urban Dictionary defines as “Pink wine enjoyed with friends, or your bros”. With this rise in Rosé drinking culture, we wanted to share some fun and educational information to get you ready to Rosé your day away.
How is Rosé still wine made?
Even through Rosé wine is made using red wine grapes, the winemaking process differs slightly from that of red wine. The grapes are crushed and left to soak with the skins for a shorter period than in red wine production, typically 2-20 hours. This results in a pink wine with a lighter flavor profile than red wine. There are 4 methods for producing rosé wine: maceration, saignée, direct press, and blending.
Maceration – This is the most common method and involves crushing the grapes and allowing them to rest, or macerate, in their skins for a short period of time. Macerated rosé leans toward deeper hues and fuller-bodied rosé.
Saignée – The saignée method is less common and involves “bleeding off” a portion of red wine juice during the fermentation process and using it to make rosé wine.
Direct Press – This process drains the pressed juice off the skins pretty much immediately, resulting in a very light pink hue and brighter flavors.
Blending – This method is a literal blend of white and red wines and is most common in the production of rose champagne and rosé sparkling wine.
Rosé wine can be made from a variety of grape varieties, including Grenache, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Cabernet, Sangiovese, and Cinsault, to name a few. Each grape variety brings its own unique flavor profile to the wine. Grenache grapes, for example, are known for producing a rosé with a fruity, strawberry flavor, while Syrah grapes produce a more robust, full-bodied rosé.
Does the color have an impact on the flavor of Rosé? Although the shade of rosé will not define the sweetness or dryness of the wine specifically, it will give you insight as to what you can expect from the flavor profile and hint at what grapes were used in the process. The lighter the color, the closer towards a white wine the flavor will be, think citrus, floral, and mineral notes, and clean finish, whereas the darker the colored rosé’s will be fuller bodied and have more red berry and earthy notes.
To learn more about the regions and grape varietals check out this awesome article from Vinepair.
How and when to drink Rosé and what to pair pink wine with
Rosé is versatile and perfect for any occasion and pairs well with a variety of foods including seafood, salads, and light pasta dishes. It can be enjoyed year-round but really shines in Spring, Summer, and Fall and is perfect for any outdoor gathering. It is also great as an aperitif, a fun wine-based cocktail (which means less alcohol) and is perfect for any picnic or charcuterie board or pairing with spicy dishes or Barbeque.
Rosé is shining in the world of cocktails and pairs beautifully with citrus, fruits, and other spirits. For inspiration and recipes check out Elle Décor’s 25 Rosé Cocktail Recipes.
What are the types of Rosé Wine Grapes
Red grape varieties are used to make rosé, as the skin contact and saignée methods reduce the red color in the wine. So grenache, syrah, cabernet sauvignon, tempranillo, sangiovese, malbec, mourvedre, carignan, zinfandel, cinsault, and pinot noir are all common varieties used for rosé and even blends.
Even though rosé wines tend to the lighter side, they still offer a lovely range of sweet to dry or even hints of spice or a savoriness, and we like to think of them as a great ‘tweener’ wine as they are a perfect balance of offering the lighter profile or a white wine, while also providing more structure and depth for those that are fans of red. The flavors lean on the fruity side, so you can expect notes of strawberry, citrus, melon, raspberry, cherry, and fresh flowers.
Rosé wine blends are made from a combination of different grape varietals. Some rosé wines lean more heavily on specific grapes, which create subdivisions, or different “types” or “styles,” of rosé. Each type of rosé wine has a slightly different flavor profile depending on the grapes used.
Provence rosé hailed as the most versatile of rosés, the Provence rosé is a wonderful choice for any occasion. It’s some of the best rosé you can get, and it’s primarily produced in Provence, France—hence, the name. There are however adjacent regions in the Sud (South) de France or what’s known as Pays d’Oc – Indication Géographique Protégé, like our Tres Chic Rosé. This fruity and light wine pairs well with any cuisine and its simple combination of strawberry and rose petal flavors makes it easy to enjoy on any occasion, from relaxed to formal, especially since it pairs well with a broad range of cuisines. Shop Now, or Click to learn more
Sangiovese rosé is generally an Italian wine, and is fruity but dry. Tasting notes: rose petal, green melon, strawberry, pomegranate, cranberry with acidic finish. A bright, dry rose, Sangiovese rosé gives a wake-up call to dormant taste buds. Its powerful citrus notes and acidic finish take over with a full, refreshing orchestra of flavor.
Tempranillo rosé is often a Spanish variety and is savory, dry, and has a fruity, yet meaty flavor profile. Tasting notes: watermelon, raspberry, green peppercorn, grilled chicken. A popular rosé in Spain, Tempranillo rosé blends a unique profile with both fruity and meaty notes. On the savorier side, this dry rosé is the perfect addition to a summer barbecue!
Syrah rosé is a bold, dry wine with notes of olive and cherry. It does not need to be served as cold as most rosé wines. Tasting notes: cherry, olive, red pepper flake, lime zest, cured meat. Syrah rosé packs a bold, robust flavor as it’s more full-bodied than most other rosés. This isn’t your typical fruity rose, if you’re looking for a more daring, adventurous choice, Syrah rosé might be just the one.
Cabernet Sauvignon rosé is savory, dry, and tastes much more like red wine than most other rosé wines. Exclusively made with the saignée method, it’s an excellent choice for red wine connoisseurs foraying into rosé. It is more acidic than regular cabernet sauvignon with notes of black pepper, black currant, cherry, and spice. The most similar rosé to red wine, Cabernet Sauvignon rosé often features a deeper shade of pink. Blending spice with the flavor of ripe cherries, this rosé has higher acidity than Cabernet Sauvignon red wine, which gives it a light yet robust taste.
White ZinfandelRosé is a type of sweet rosé with moderately high acidity levels. Flavor notes of white zinfandel are lemon, melon, strawberry and even cotton candy. White Zinfandel will cure a sweet tooth with its high acidity and candied fruit taste. While some types of White Zinfandel can be on the drier side, most are known for their luscious, sweet an easy choice.
Tavel rosé is robust, savory, rich, and very dry. A little ambiguous when it comes to tasting notes, Tavel rosé hits the spot for a dry, savory wine. Tavel has distinct fruit notes, berry, but with an earthier and nuttier twist. Lower in acidity than other rosés, Tavel is known for being higher in alcohol content, usually with a minimum of 11%. Similar to the vibrant characteristics of red wine, Tavel holds a strong berry flavor with its earthy undertones.
Mourvèdre rosé is a full-bodied rosé with initial floral notes that transform on the palate into a rich cherry, smoky, and meaty flavor. Mourvèdre rosé is a full-bodied rosé with a rounded flavor profile consisting of violets, red plums, smoke, meat, rose petal. With deeper fruit notes like plums and cherries, hints of smokiness and meat can show up as well. An excellent pairing for Mediterranean or Greek cuisine, Mourvèdre is sure to please a refined rosé drinker.
Pinot Noir rosé is a delicate and crisp rosé with notes of crabapple, strawberry, and melon. Bright and crisp, Pinot Noir rosé defines a sophisticated and airy choice for the wine connoisseur. Although it embodies sweet characteristics, its acidity level lends to a drier taste. Enjoy a fresh glass of this rosé with lighter dishes like tapas, seafood, and salads.
Rosé Champagne, or sparkling rosé, is champagne blended made with red grapes. Rosé Champagnes or sparkling wines are a little stronger in flavor profile than traditional Champagne. The taste will vary depending on the red wines chosen, but most will have a powerful strawberry and raspberry flavor. Our Le Grand Courtage Brut Rosé French sparkling wine consist of Chardonnay, Ugni Blanc and Gamay, a delicate red grape that offers strawberry, raspberry and lilac. Shop Now, or Click to learn more
Grenache Rosé Bursting with fruit flavors, Grenache is usually dry and best served cold. With balanced acidity and tannins, fruity notes shine through for a delightful, rich taste. Popular in Provence and Spain, Grenache rosé has tasting notes of orange, hibiscus, strawberry, watermelon, and lemon and might be just what you need to fulfill your wanderlust.
Unlocking the Perfect French Rosé Wine Pairings for Every Season
Not JUST for Summer!
French rosé wine, with its delicate hues and refreshing taste, holds a timeless charm that transcends seasons. Whether it’s the vibrant blossoms of spring, the sun-drenched days of summer, the crisp air of autumn, or the cozy evenings of winter, there’s a perfect French rosé to complement every moment. In this guide, we delve into the art of pairing French rosé wines with seasonal dishes to elevate your dining experience.
Spring Rosé Pairings:
As nature awakens and fresh flavors abound, spring calls for light and vibrant pairings. Pair a Provence rosé with a fresh salad of mixed greens, strawberries, and goat cheese for a delightful burst of flavor. Alternatively, opt for a slightly chilled glass of rosé alongside grilled shrimp skewers drizzled with lemon and herbs for a refreshing springtime feast. Browse our spring entertaining blog for more inspiration here.
Summer Rosé Pairings:
Summer beckons for leisurely outdoor gatherings and vibrant cuisine. For a quintessential summer pairing, serve a chilled glass of rosé from the Loire Valley alongside a platter of grilled salmon with a side of mango salsa. The crisp acidity and fruity notes of the wine perfectly complement the smoky flavors of the grill and the sweetness of the salsa. More summer wine pairings here.
Autumn Rosé Pairings:
As temperatures begin to cool and leaves turn golden, autumn brings heartier fare and rich flavors. Pair rosé with a roasted butternut squash risotto for a comforting autumn meal. The wine’s subtle hints of red fruit and spice beautifully balance the creamy texture of the risotto, creating a memorable dining experience. Expert Tip: Rosé wines are perfect for pairing during the holidays! Read more here about why rosé is perfect for fall & winter soirees!
Winter Rosé Pairings:
Winter calls for cozy evenings by the fire and hearty, comforting dishes. For a sophisticated winter pairing, serve a glass of brut rosé alongside a charcuterie board featuring cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and fig compote. The elegant bubbles and crisp acidity of the Champagne cut through the richness of the meats and cheeses, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Because rosé is great in cocktails and alongside indulgent comfort meals, it also makes a wonderful hostess gift, stocking stuffer, and wine gift during the holiday season. Get our curated wine lover gift guide here.
French rosé wine is a versatile and delightful companion for every season, offering endless possibilities for culinary exploration and enjoyment. Whether you’re savoring the freshness of spring, embracing the warmth of summer, relishing the flavors of autumn, or indulging in the comforts of winter, there’s a perfect French rosé waiting to elevate your dining experience. So, uncork a bottle, savor the moment, and let the magic of French rosé wine transport you through the seasons. Cheers to unforgettable pairings and unforgettable memories!
French Wine Trio (750ml). One bottle each of our award winning & affordable French wines.
Hosting a rosé themed party, french dinner party or french wine tasting party? Wanting to sample different types of French rosé? Or perhaps, you already love one of our wines but are interested in trying the rest of our wines. We’ve created this trio pack which includes one (1) bottle each of Le Grand Courtâge Blanc de Blancs Brut, Le Grand Courtâge Brut Rosé, and Très Chic Rosé.
Inclusive wines that are light, low calorie, low carb, keto approved + vegan wines! This is the perfect wine gift for the rosé and bubbly lover in your life!
Looking for a delicious rosé cocktail to craft at home? Browse our free downloadable cocktail recipe ebooks for dozens of sparkling & rosé cocktails to celebrate & elevate everyday moments. From our signature cocktails, low abv drinks,& refreshing wine spritzers, to pink drinks and frosé wine slushies, get inspired here.
The bottom line – Rosé wines are diverse, and not quite as light as most white wines, but much brighter and lighter bodied than red wines. It is the perfect beverage to satisfy a wide range of palates. It’s cuisine, cocktail and consumer friendly and enjoyable to share with friends, at social gatherings, weddings, picnics, pool parties, or while relaxing in a bubble bath, after all, Rosé all Day!
An American Insider’s Guide to Visiting Paris: The Arrondissements, Maps, Getting Around & What to Know Before You Go
Having lived in Paris, our owner and founder, Tawnya Falkner, has compiled a practical, and fun resource guide for visiting the City of Lights and/or Love…. This includes tips for enjoying the city like a local, as well as some of the obvious touristy highlights, where to stay, what to do, the transportation and how to get around the city. We’ve included several maps to help plan your trip to the City of Lights a little easier.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when visiting Paris is to wear comfortable shoes. The city is best explored on foot, and it’s easy to get lost in its winding streets. Don’t worry about remembering the names of the places you visit; the best way to experience Paris is by getting lost and discovering off-the-beaten-path sights. Alternatively, you can rent a city bike and explore Paris by cycling around for a half-day.
If you’re planning to visit Paris, there are countless sights and activities to explore, from world-famous museums to quaint cafes and picturesque parks. Paris is a city of grand boulevards, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems. The city is known for its rich culture, history, and artistic heritage, making it a top travel destination.
Paris is one of the few big cities in the world with as many nicknames as it does. From “Paname”, to “Lutèce”, to “Pantruche”, to “the City of Love” to “the City of Lights”.
If it’s your first-time visiting Paris, it’s recommended to stay near the Seine river, where most of the tourist attractions are located. The 1st, 4th, 5th, and 6th arrondissements are ideal for easy access to the city’s most popular tourist attractions and main transportation hubs. If you’re looking for a more local experience, or you’ve visited Paris before and want to explore a different neighborhood, consider staying in the 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 14th, or 18th arrondissement.
There are many off-the-beaten-path and non-touristy things to do in Paris, which are worth exploring.
Take a visit to Aux Trois Mailletz, a piano bar with a full cabaret downstairs in an old cave, where you can dance on the tables until 5 am.
One of our favorites is to visit Jardin de Luxembourg, a picturesque park where you can have a picnic of sandwiches & drinks and people watch.
For a quaint little area off Boulevard Saint-Michel, you can also visit Place de la Sordonne, with its cafes, a beautiful fountain, and the Église de la Sorbonne church.
A must is to spend an evening in Trocadero at night with wine & cheese and watch the Eiffel Tower light up.
Stroll around St. Germain and the Latin Quarter, especially Rue Mouffetard, supposedly the oldest street in Paris, and is full of darling little shops and markets.
Near the Place Monge metro, you can find the Monge market, which you can visit on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays between 07:00 and 14:30. The weekends are very lively and great for mingling with the locals.
The Latin Quarter is a lively cultural hub, which was popularized by the likes of Orwell and Hemingway.
Visit Heureux Comme Alexandre for delicious signature dishes as well as their famous fondue.
After dinner wander down the Rue Saint-Jacques toward the river Seine and enter Le Caveau de la Huchette for a live jam session. This venue is a cave-like basement bar that has hosted such jazz greats as drummer Art Blakey, pianist Wild Bill Davis, and trombonist Gene “Mighty Flea” Conners. The music goes into early morning hours and is great for dancing and socializing.
Grab lunch inMontmartre, where you can sit at one of the cafes and watch the artists paint. The quiet street of La Maison Rose is absolutely adorable and picturesque.
Check out Musée d’Orsay, which holds one of the largest collections of Impressionist art, or visit Musée de l’Orangerie, which hosts an amazing collection of Monet paintings in a stunning round room, including a quiet meditation or contemplation area.
Take a boat tour along the Seine, which is a great way to see many of the main sites. There are hop on/off, lunch, aperitif, or dinner cruises. Make sure to book in advance. We recommend Bateaux Parisiens or Get Your Guide.
If you’re looking for a quiet respite, you can visit Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole, one of our favourite Parisian café tucked away on a side street near Notre Dame. You’ll often find the owners tucked away in a corner enjoying their own café au lait or glass of wine.
Palais Royal and the Stripe Columns along the Jardin de Palais Royale are also worth visiting, followed by a visit to Kitsune Café for fabulous pastries, coffee, and adorable merch.
Visit the Sacre Couer – Tawnya likes to sit on the steps and listen to the street musicians with pastry or wine and enjoy the ambiance. I lived on Rue LaMarck just to the right side of the church and it was an absolutely amazing view!
Check out Printemps du Goût where you can eat atop the mail department store of pronto with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
Bouillon Julien is a beautiful and inexpensive French restaurant in Paris. It’s a restaurant that local Parisians frequent. It’s a great place to have a nice romantic evening or celebratory dinner in amazing blue art nouveau décor.
2nd Arrondissement – This old district with tiny streets boasts the remarkable covered Shopping Arcades, their tiny shops and restaurants. The 17th century Place des Victoires, and the 15th century Tour de Jean Sans Peur are interesting sights. The Grand Rex is the largest movie theater in Paris.
Rue Montorgueil is a street in the 1st and 2nd arrondissements of Paris, France. Lined with restaurants, cafés, bakeries, fish stores, cheese shops, wine shops, produce stands and flower shops. It is a place for Parisians to socialize while doing their daily shopping.
3rd Arrondissement – This district is an extension northwards of the fashionable Le Marais. The Picasso Museum is the top sight of the 3rd arrondissement. Musée des Arts et Métiers is a former abbey.
5th arrondissement – The well known Quartier Latin Latin Quarter where the Sorbonne University was founded in the 12th century. Many sights including Le Panthéon, Museum Paris, Paris Mosque, Rue Mouffetard market, Saint-Etienne du Mont Paris church, Paris Middle Ages Museum and Roman Therms. Wonderful local bakeries, winding, picturesque streets, and small courtyards are among the discoveries here, while the area is also well endowed with museums and cinemas.
The 7th and 8th are the decidedly tourism-focused side of Paris with posh residential streets, but many locals consider it to be less authentic and rather staid.
9th arrondissement – This busy district is home to the Paris Department Stores, Opéra Garnier, Grévin Wax Museum, and La Trinité Church. It recently became one of the most fashionable districts in town thanks to the Rue des Martyrs shopping street and the beautiful Place Saint-Georges.
10th arrondissement – This arrondissement around the romantic Canal Saint-Martin in now very fashionable. Rue de Marseille is a favorite. This arrondissement counts Gare de Nord and Gare de l’Est, two major train stations.
11th arrondissement – Young and affluent Parisians plebiscite this old working-class district near Opéra Bastille. Nightlife is animated as it counts many bars and restaurants in rue de Lappe, rue Keller and rue de Charonne.
13th arrondissement – No tourists in this district. High-rises and Chinatown restaurants around Avenue d’Italie. Station F startup incubator, the largest in Europe. BNF French National Library on the riverbanks. Best Street Art in town Paris Zoo is in the twelfth arrondissement.
20th arrondissement – Multi-ethnic district. Apart from the out of the beaten track Père Lachaise Cemetery, this district has no specific sight of world-class. Belleville and Ménilmontant have many restaurants and bars.
THEMATIC PARIS MAPS
We’ve tried to make your life, and planning a little easier by compiling several reference maps of Paris and suggestions for how to maximize your time.
Transportation
Given the challenges of driving and parking in the city, the metro system serves as the primary mode of transportation among Parisians and tourists and is a safe and clean option. You can use the Paris metro map to identify metro lines and stations, as well as plan your route around the city.
To get to or from other destinations in Paris, you can easily take local or national rail. There are six train stations in Paris, which you’ll find located on our Paris Train Stations Map. The map shows the main stations and the arrondissement they occupy.
Monuments
Locate the top monuments on Paris monument map. It includes the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Louvre, the Sacré-Coeur, the Arc de Triomphe, LA Conciergerie, the Saint-Chapelle, the Fondation Louis Vuitton, and the Palace de Chaillot.
Museums
The city is world-famous for its top museums of art: Musée d’Orsay, Louvre, Centre Pompidou, Musée d’Art Moderne, Musée Picasso, Musée Marmottan. Locate and view the top museums on Paris museum map.
Where to Eat
There are countless restaurants in the city, including French and International cuisine. Typically, the areas frequented by tourists don’t provide good quality for the price. However, there are always exceptions. You can find our preferred restaurants in this Paris restaurant map.
Gardens and Parks
Locate the top gardens and parks on Paris garden map: Luxembourg Gardens, Les Tuileries, Parc de la VIllette, Buttes-Chaumont, Parc Monceau, Bois de Boulogne, Bois de Vincennes.
Sightseeing
Locate and view the top sights to see on Paris sightseeing map. It includes monuments, museums, parks, and gardens to visit. Alternatively you can check out the Paris tourist map.
Where to Shop
Discover the best shopping spots in the city with the Paris shopping map. Whether you prefer luxury fashion boutiques, department stores, or flea markets, you’ll find a shopping venue that fits your taste.
If you are an Emily in Paris fan and wonder where it was filmed and places you must visit, please check out our other blog. how to explore paris like Emily in Paris
Our final words of advice… enjoy and soak it ALL up. Relish in the joie de vivre, or the joy of life, like the French does, and make sure to allow for lots of café time to enjoy a café au lait or of course a glass or three of some French champagne or sparkling wine! The French are about pleasure and soaking it all up, whereas Americans treat food as fuel and are often in a rush…. Grab a seat and just people-watch while enjoying all the yummy eats. Cheers!
How to Open a Bottle of Champagne or Sparkling Wine
April 6, 2023
Celebrations call for Champagne or Sparkling Wine, and opening a bottle of bubbly can be a fun and exciting experience. However, if you are not familiar with the process, it can be intimidating, and safety should come first. There is no need to worry though, as we will guide you through the steps to open a bottle of champagne safely and stylishly.
Below is a guide to provide insights and step by step instructions to open a bottle of bubbly like a pro.
The below shows the hand positions throughout the opening process described below.
Image Credit: Coravin
Step 1: Chill the Champagne or Sparkling Wine
Before you open the bottle, make sure it’s well chilled. Champagne should be served at around 45°F (7°C) and a max of 55°F, so keep the bottle in the refrigerator for a few hours before you plan to open it. If you need to chill it quickly, put it in a bucket of ice and cold water for 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Remove the Foil and Wire Cage
The first step to opening a bottle of champagne is removing the foil and wire cage that covers the cork. Remove the foil wrapper using the pull tab located on the side of the foil. The wire cage, also known as a muselet, is designed to keep the cork in place and prevent it from popping out. When removing the muselet and during the following steps, always keep pressure on the cork with the top of your hand so that it does not pop-off on its own. You can remove the muselet by twisting the tab 6 turns counterclockwise and pulling it off gently. We recommend a towel or large napkin over the cork when removing.
Step 3: Hold the Bottle
Once the wire cage is off, hold the bottle at a 45-degree angle with one hand, making sure to keep the cork facing away from you and others. Use a towel or napkin to cover the cork and hold it securely.
Step 4: Twist the Bottle, Not the Cork
Next, hold the cork with one hand over the top, and twist the base of the bottle with the other hand. You should feel the cork start to loosen. Continue to twist the bottle until the cork pops out with a satisfying “pop.” If the cork is difficult to remove, try twisting the bottle gently back and forth while applying slight upward pressure to the cork.
Proper etiquette is actually to have the “pop” only be a whisper and virtually silent, but most love to hear the sound, and we like to think that the pop of the cork is the universal sound of happy.
Image Credit: GlassofBubbly.com
Image Credit: GlassofBubbly.com
Step 5: Pour and Enjoy
Once the cork is out, pour the champagne by holding the glass at a 45-degree angle and slowing filling to that the effervescence isn’t too pronounced, and the wine doesn’t bubbly over. Hold the glass by the base to avoid warming the champagne with your hands. Aim to pour the champagne into the center of the glass to prevent it from foaming over. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Champagne and the pop of the cork evokes the imagination and conjures up ideas of celebrating and treating yourself… we like to call it the ‘champagne state of mind’.
Below is a list of the best champagne or sparkling wine quotes to inspire.
We are on the sparkling wine or champagne campaign to encourage to elevate the every day and raise a glass more often!
I drink champagne when I’m happy and when I’m sad. Sometimes I drink it when I’m alone. When I have company I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it if I’m not hungry and drink it when I am. Otherwise I never touch it — unless I’m thirsty. Lilly Bollinger
“Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!” Dom Perignon
“Champagne is the one thing that gives me zest when I feel tired.” Brigitte Bardot
There comes a time in every woman’s life when the only thing that helps is a glass of Champagne.” Bette Davis
“Champagne is one of the elegant extras in life.” Charles Dickens
“Champagne! In victory one deserves it, in defeat one needs it.” Napoleon Bonaparte
“My only regret in life is that I didn’t drink enough Champagne.” John Maynard Keynes
“I only drink Champagne on two occasions, when I am in love and when I am not.” – Coco Chanel
“There is nothing more beautiful than a sunset, viewed over a glass of chilled Champagne.” – Jared M. Brown
Three be the things I shall never attain: envy, content, and sufficient champagne. | Dorothy Parker
“A cause may be inconvenient, but it’s magnificent. It’s like champagne or high heels, and one must be prepared to suffer for it.” – Arnold Bennett
“Champagne makes you feel like it’s Sunday and there are better days around the corner.” –Marlene Dietrich
“Too much of anything is bad, but too much champagne is just right.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald
“The feeling of friendship is like that of being comfortably filled with roast beef; love is like being enlivened with champagne.” –Samuel Johnson
“Pleasure without champagne is purely artificial.” –Oscar Wilde
“Only the unimaginative can fail to find a reason for drinking champagne.” –Oscar Wilde
“Gentlemen, in the little moment that remains to us between the crisis and the catastrophe, we may as well drink a glass of champagne.” – Paul Claudel
“Wine gives one ideas, whereas champagne gives one strategies.” – Roman Payne
“You were my cup of tea, but I drink champagne now.” – Unknown
“Pour the champagne and let its mousse rise, like thousands of sparkling smiling eyes.” – Jared M. Brown
“Champagne is the wine of civilization and the oil of government.” – Winston Churchill
“A single glass of champagne imparts a feeling of exhilaration. The nerves are braced; the imagination is stirred; the wits become more nimble.” – Winston Churchill
“A cause may be inconvenient, but it’s magnificent. It’s like champagne or high heels, and one must be prepared to suffer for it.” – Arnold Bennett
“Champagne is the only wine that leaves a woman beautiful after drinking it.” – Madame de Pompadour, member of the French court during the 18th century
“Remember, gentlemen, it’s not just France we are fighting for, it’s Champagne!” – Winston Churchill, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
“One holds a bottle of red wine by the neck, a woman by the waist, and a bottle of Champagne by the derriere.” – Mark Twain, American writer
“Fighting is like Champagne. It goes to the heads of cowards as quickly as of heroes. Any fool can be brave on a battlefield when it’s be brave or else be killed.” – Margaret Mitchell, American novelist
“Champagne is the one thing that gives me zest when I’m tired.” – Brigitte Bardot, French actress
“Love me like Saturday night, like three glasses of champagne, like the room is spinning, like you’re drunk on my love.” ― C.J. Carlyon
“The thing about champagne, you say, unfoiling the cork, unwinding the wire restraint, is that is the ultimate associative object. Every time you open a bottle of champagne, it’s a celebration, so there’s no better way of starting a celebration than opening a bottle of champagne. Every time you sip it, you’re sipping from all those other celebrations. The joy accumulates over time.” ― David Levithan, The Lover’s Dictionary
“The thing about champagne, you say, unfoiling the cork, unwinding the wire restraint, is that is the ultimate associative object. Every time you open a bottle of champagne, it’s a celebration, so there’s no better way of starting a celebration than opening a bottle of champagne. Every time you sip it, you’re sipping from all those other celebrations. The joy accumulates over time.” ― David Levithan, The Lover’s Dictionary
So to those that call it champers, champere, fizz or simply don’t know how to spell it or say it… (not that it is not spelled like champain or champ agne or champaign). Regardless, pop that cork and raise a glass and Cheers in whatever language you celebrate Santé! ¡Salud! Prost! Skål! За здоровье! Cin cin! Şerefe! Saúde! Sláinte!Kanpai!
Champagne is a sparkling wine produced from grapes grown in the Champagne region of France. It is produced by a specific, traditional method from specific grapes grown in designated areas of the Champagne region. It is the most famous type of sparkling wine and is often cited as one of the most esteemed wines in the world. The Champagne method involves second fermentation in the bottle to form bubbles. This method allows champagne to be aged for longer periods than other sparkling wines, leading to an increased complexity of flavours.
How to Sabre a bottle of Champagne: Mastering the Art of Sabrage
Pop. Clink. Fizz. There is no other universal sound that inspires joy than celebrating with a bottle of Champagne or Sparkling Wine. We are here to teach you, safely, how to achieve that while getting that perfect photo of you being a badass! All you’ll need is a bottle of bubbles and a sturdy, heavy kitchen knife or you can purchase an inexpensive saber on Amazon.
Did You Know?
Sabering dates back to the 17th century and is said to have all begun with Napoleon as he used his sword to open wine when traveling through Champagne during the French Revolution. Since then, it has been demonstrated during major celebrations from royal weddings to presidential inaugurations.
How To (safely) Sabre a Bottle of Champagne or Sparkling Wine:
You’ll want to start with a bottle of Champagne or French Sparkling Wine. The French bottles are thicker and have been created to withstand more pressure from carbonation that happens in the bottle during the 2nd fermentation.
The wine should be very cold! This step is important to ensure that the bottle does not shatter. It is recommended to chill the wine overnight and place the neck of the champagne bottle in an ice bath for 10+ minutes to get it as cold as possible.
You will want to dry off the bottle to make sure there isn’t any condensation.
Remove the foil from all around the neck and top of the bottle. Carefully remove the wire cage or the muselet around the cork, always keeping pressure on the cork so it doesn’t pop off. We recommend your thumb or hand over the cork. Always point the cork away from people and avoid the face and eye area especially.
Rub your finger along the bottle and you will feel a small vertical seam which will feel like a piece of thread to the touch of the finger. This slight imperfection in the glass is where the flat glass is formed and the two sides married together to form the bottle, and hence the seam runs vertically along the bottle from the base of the punt to the top of the neck. This creates a slight weakness in the bottle so to speak, and it is here that you should run the knife smoothly from the base and hit just under the lip at the top of the neck… This is the magic spot.
Angle the bottle at a 45-degree angle and be sure not to point the bottle at anyone (especially the person holding the camera for that perfect shot!)
You are going to want to gently slide your kitchen knife along the seam to get a feel for the motion, with the dull side of the knife (or the back of the blade) toward the neck. Once you (and your camera-person) are ready, use one swift stroke towards the neck and POP the top should fly off.
Anatomy of a Champagne Bottle
Safety Do’s and Don’ts
Do always use chilled Champagne or Sparkling Red Wine
Don’t use still wines (there is no pressure from carbonation and therefor the act can shatter the bottle)
Do saber in a safe environment, outdoors and away from people, cars, etc.
Don’t ever put your mouth to a sabered bottle of wine! The glass will be cut and can do some serious damage.
Do remember to find and throw away the cork and lip of the bottle. Again, the glass will be sharp so handle with care!
If you’re wondering how to drink rosé the proper way, the first thing you need to know is this: don’t overthink it, just drink it. Here are the three takeaways you should know about drinking rosé.
Do mix it!
If you’re having a hard time drinking rosé on it’s own, then you should know that rosé makes for a great base and addition to cocktails. Most rosés have signature flavors of berries, floral, and melons, all of which are great bases to help complement spritzes and sour cocktails. The dryness, fruit and acidity make for a perfect balance to many spirits.
Do drink it all year.
Rosé is a versatile wine, which makes it a great aperitif or pairing with food. The rosé offers the best of both worlds as it has white wine structure and red wine flavors, so it can be as light or intense as wanted when pairing. It’s the perfect ‘in between’ wine because of it’s added structure and complexity yet subtle, clean finish. It also makes for a good ‘white wine alternative’ for typically red wine-leaning drinkers.
Don’t overpay.
A great rosé doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. $15-$20 is the fastest growing segment across all wine sales – Nielson 2017. And trust us, there is no shortage of quality wine within this price range.
Priced at $16.99 retail, Très Chic rosé is an affordable, everyday rosé with an elegant, yet approachable label.
Use code (LGCPROMO) for 15% your first purchase of Rosé Wine from us.
We are often asked ‘How is wine made or more specifically, how rosé wine is made?’ For our Très Chic Rosé, we utilize a fairly typical process for French Provence style rosé wines in order to ensure the youthful, crisp wine with fruit forward aromatics that the region is known for.
VINIFICATION/AGEING:
The grapes are mostly harvested in the morning (in the cooler hours before sunrise) and are then destemmed for the fresh aromatic. Our two grape varietals are vinified separately for more finesse and purity. The Cinsault and Grenache grapes are pressed directly. Vinification is conducted in stainless steel vats and fermentations take place at low temperatures to preserve the wines’ aromatic freshness, after which the wines are aged for 3 months on fine lees and gently stirred. Our wines are vegan friendly, and we do not utilize any subtractive fining agents like egg whites or gelatin.
PRODUCTION
The grapes were pressed directly, and we maintain approximately 5-6 hours contact with the grape skins to yield a brilliant pale pink hue. We do not blend white and red wine as often asked by consumers, but some producers do this when they have a lot of excess wine they are trying to unload, but this isn’t really the optimal method to produce the best quality.
The juice was fermented at 16°C in stainless steel vats.
Aged for 3 months sur lie. 13% ABV
What do lees do?
As the yeast cells start to break down during the process of autolysis, they release tiny amounts of sugars (called polysaccharides) and amino acids. The presence of these compounds is sensed on our tongues and palates as a textural weightiness or increased body in the wine. White and sparkling wines aged on the lees are often described as creamier, richer, fuller-bodied, or with greater depth and complexity of flavor.
Besides the added textural creaminess, the release of fatty acids (which come from the breakdown of the yeast cell wall) adds to the aromas/flavors in a wine.
Grenache wines exhibit higher alcohol and sweet, ripe red fruit flavors, often with a violet-like floral scent.Cinsault is fruity and fresh with a hint of pepper and spice, it adds a softness and aromatics and a higher acidity to round out the blend.
FLAVOR PROFILE – The coastal terroir produces exuberant wines with fresh flavors of grapefruit, red berries and tropical fruit. Delicate on the palate with mineral notes and balanced acidity.
AROMAS – This youthful wine offers aromatics of red berries, citrus and thyme.
The soil is composed of calcareous clay and the vineyards are terraced. The climate is cool for the region with considerable diurnal/nocturnal temperature differences, which allows these wines to preserve perfect balance.
Origin of Grenache is mainly the Gard and Cinsault is Hérault department in the Languedoc-Roussillon vineyard.
ORGANOLEPTIC DESCRIPTION:
Superb, brilliant, pale pinkish color. Highly fresh aromatic, with delicate notes of red berries, citrus and tropical fruit.
On the palate, giving an impression of freshness and very well-balance with floral notes. Lovely length and a mineral, saline and fresh finish with character.
Use code (LGCPROMO) for 15% your first purchase of Très Chic Rosé from us.
I once heard someone say that people spend more time planning their vacation than they do their life and I believe this (sadly) is pretty accurate. The truth is if you don’t define the destination, you can’t develop the roadmap to get where you want to go. This is where the concept of a “vision board” or “dream board” comes in. We are HUGE fans and do them every year to set intentions and define the things which speak to our soul and bring joy. After 2020, we can all use some new energy and vision for the future.
By putting a vision board where you can see it every day, you will prompt yourself to visualize your dreams, goals, and ideal life on a regular basis. Think of it as your compass and your true north. Many super successful people swear by them, including Oprah, Reese Witherspoon, Beyoncé, and Denzel Washington.
According to Psychology Today, mental practices (like visualization) can increase motivation, confidence, and even motor performance. In fact, in one study, researchers found that, in athletes, visualization was almost as effective as physical practice.
As it says on our bottle ‘Embrace Life. Dream Big. Accept all Invitations… so have fun envisioning your future self!
Do a brief 10-15-minute brain dump of what first comes to mind as the areas of your life that are important to you right now (family, relationships, hobbies, well-being, finances). Think about what excites you – learning French, teaching yoga, traveling, buying a home in the country, taking music lessons, starting a business.
If you aren’t feeling crafty, the same exercise in a journal is very effective as well.
Posterboard, Foam Core Board, Large Cork Board, or of preference an Art Canvas (16×20 or larger)
Scissors
Glue sticks
Markers
Fabric or ribbons
Maybe washi tapes, stickers, gems, sequins, metallic pens, crayons, etc., for accentuating your board
One glass of Le Grand Courtage Blanc de Blanc Sparkling Wine
Step 3 – Finding Inspiration
Grab yourself a cup of coffee, or a glass of Le Grand Courtâge as the bubbly helps get you in that sparkling mindset. Start cutting out images that speak to you and gathering ‘visuals’ of things that align with the objectives that you’ve identified. You will amass quite the pile of things that inspire you. Be creative. Include not only pictures but anything that speaks to you. You can sip your Sparkling wine now.
IMAGES: Find pictures that represent or symbolize the experiences, feelings, and possessions you want to attract into your life. Focus on how the images make you FEEL. Look for those that immediately make you say, “Yes! That is what I want in my life!”
MOTIVATIONAL WORDS: Add affirmations, inspirational words, quotations, and thoughts. I like to add words that describe how I want to feel – such as: joyful, abundant, fearless, free, balanced, etc.
You are dreaming about creating a life you love so don’t rush it… set aside an evening or weekend day. We often do ours over a few days.
Step 4 – Laying out & Creating your vision board
Use only the words and images that best represent your purpose, your ideal future, and words that inspire positive emotions in you and make your heart sing. There is beauty in simplicity and clarity.
Start to layout your images on your board. But DON’T GLUE YET! It is easier to lay images out on the board so you can re-arrange until you have fit all the items. We often overlap and layer portions of images above or below others, so we wait before gluing the edges down.
When you’re happy with the final layout, start gluing down all the edges. You might want to place some books or magazines on top to keep the images flat as it dries.
You might even consider a board for your personal goals and another for career and financial goals. Whether you call it manifestation, the law of attraction or just bringing clarity to what you want, it is a creative exercise to do alone or with friends – and a nice alternative to all the binge-watching we’ve all partaken in during COVID-19.
Write the date on the back of your vision board and your location so you can go back and remember where you were and what you were doing at the time.
Take a few moments to contemplate your vision board every day. Keep your eye on the prize (or rather your dreams in this case). We take a picture and save it as the screen saver to constantly reminds us. It brings us back to the center and helps maintain that champagne state of mind!
You’ll want to start with a bottle of Champagne or French Sparkling Wine. The French bottles are thicker and have been created to withstand more pressure from carbonation that happens in the bottle during the 2nd fermentation.
