Drinks

A housewarming gift that will get things popping

Note to self: Your recently relocated friends don’t need any more coffee mugs or candles. With so many people migrating to the area, it’s inevitable you know someone trying to settle into a new home. I meet people who just bought their first home, people transitioning from different states, I even know people hopping into new digs only a mile away from their current spot.

Moving can be arduous and expensive, so I always like to show up to the new pad with something amazing to celebrate the occasion. I’m at that age when a lot friends are settling into their new home, and after MANY attempts, I have perfected the quintessential housewarming gift … and that gift is Champagne!

Buying a new house is a cause for celebration, and what better way to celebrate than with a nice bottle of bubbles? And I’m not talking about cheap bubbles you hide in mimosas (Sorry Cook’s), I’m talking true French Champagne. The kind you pay more for all because it’s from a certain region in France. The kind that follows the many rules of said region to put it in a category all its own. The kind you would never shake and spray all over the room because it would be a drag to waste such precious liquid.

While many brands exist, my favorite of all is Taittinger.

One of the best nonvintage bruts of all time, I’ve read Taittinger described as “racy, elegant, and totally charming.” They’re not lying. Taittinger screams to be drunk with friends in a celebratory setting. Even with its high prestige, it’s a solid bottle you can pick up at your neighborhood grocery store. While you may think you know the perfect gift for the moment, it could be a toss up if they’re truly appreciative. However, with Taittinger, it always delivers. My sneak trick is to force them to open the gift while I’m checking out the spread, and maybe they’ll be encouraged by my high energy to pop the bubbly while I’m there. Even if they don’t, it leaves room to be shared for a tender moment later down the road. Taittinger is the epitome of perfection, to be shared at any time and place without disappointment. It’s important to be celebrated as a gesture as well as a gift, but if they’re going to drink it, it’s better if it tastes good.

TARIN SCARBROUGH The Sommelier at The Attic Door. If you like what she pens, you’ll love what she pours! Be sure to stop by and let her know what you think or drink.