Pop the Champagne

Jules' top champagne picks to splurge on this Valentine's Day

Forget flowers, let’s pop champagne instead. Valentine’s Day calls for something extra special—whether you're celebrating with a partner, friends, or treating yourself. And what better way to toast than with a delicious bottle of Champagne? Maybe a nice one to top your French 75s?

I’ve rounded up my top picks, from iconic classics to splurge-worthy bottles that are so worth it. Of course, you can always reach for the ever-popular Moët & Chandon or Veuve Clicquot—but if you're looking to elevate your Champagne experience, here are some bottles worth exploring.

Bottles to pick up or delivered from Total Wine

Billecart Salmon Extra Brut Vintage Champagne

retail approx. $119

Billecart-Salmon Extra Brut Vintage is a Champagne made from a blend of 65% Pinot Noir and 35% Chardonnay, sourced from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards. Aged for nearly a decade on the lees and has a crisp, dry finish.

Tasting Notes

🥂 Aroma: Fresh citrus zest, green apple, and subtle toasted brioche with hints of almond and floral undertones.
🍏 Palate: Crisp and structured with flavors of pear, lemon curd, and a touch of salinity, complemented by a fine mousse and a mineral-driven backbone.
✨ Finish: Long, dry, and elegant, leaving a lingering freshness with a touch of chalky minerality.

Food Pairings

• Oysters & Caviar: The crisp acidity and saline minerality make this a perfect match.

• Sushi & Sashimi: Complements the delicate flavors of raw fish, especially tuna and scallop.

• Light Truffle Dishes: Such a good pairing with truffle risotto or creamy mushroom pasta.

Ruinart Blanc de Blancs Champagne

retail price approx. $90

Ruinart Blanc de Blancs is a 100% Chardonnay Champagne. Made predominantly from Premier Cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs and Montagne de Reims, it is celebrated for its bright, fresh character and silky texture.

Tasting Notes

🍋 Aroma: Fresh citrus (lemon, lime), white peach, and floral notes of acacia and jasmine, with subtle hints of brioche and almond.
🥂 Palate: Light yet creamy, with crisp apple, juicy pear, and a touch of tropical pineapple. The fine, persistent bubbles create a beautifully smooth mouthfeel.
✨ Finish: Long and refined, with lingering minerality and delicate toasted hazelnut.

Food Pairings

• Seafood & Shellfish: Oysters, lobster, scallops, or ceviche enhance the Champagne’s crispness.

• Sushi & Sashimi: Complements the clean, fresh flavors of raw fish, particularly yellowtail or salmon.

• Goat Cheese & Soft-Ripened Cheeses: A perfect match with a creamy Brie.

Bollinger Rose Champagne

retail price approx. $130

Bollinger Rosé is a Pinot Noir-driven Champagne. Made from a blend of 62% Pinot Noir, 24% Chardonnay, and 14% Meunier, it includes 5–6% still red wine from Bollinger’s exclusive vineyards in Aÿ and Verzenay, giving it a deeper color and richer complexity than many rosé Champagnes.

Tasting Notes

🍓 Aroma: Bright red berries (wild strawberries, raspberries, cherries) with hints of blood orange, rose petals, and a touch of spice.
🥂 Palate: Notes of fresh red currant, pomegranate, and a subtle minerality. The fine, persistent bubbles create a creamy mouthfeel.
✨ Finish: Long, elegant, and slightly toasty, with a delicate touch of brioche and almond.

Food Pairings

• Burrata & Prosciutto: The wine’s acidity cuts through the creamy cheese while complementing the salty prosciutto.

• Berry-Based Desserts: Pairs amazingly with say a strawberry shortcake, berry tart, or dark chocolate covered strawberries.

Champagne Deutz Brut Rose

retail price approx. $60

Deutz Brut Rosé is a Pinot Noir-driven rosé Champagne, known for its delicate color, fine bubbles, and refined fruit profile. Made from 90% Pinot Noir and 10% Chardonnay.

Tasting Notes

🍓 Aroma: Aromas of fresh wild strawberries, raspberries, and cherries, with hints of rose petals and a touch of citrus zest.
🥂 Palate: Silky and refined, with juicy red berry flavors, a bright acidity, and subtle minerality. The mousse is creamy and well-integrated, leading to a smooth, lingering finish.
✨ Finish: Crisp, fresh, and elegant, with a whisper of spice and toasty brioche.

Food Pairings

• Seared Tuna or Salmon: Complements the richness of fatty fish while enhancing the freshness.

• Cheese & Charcuterie: Pairs great with mild, creamy cheeses (think a Brie) and delicate cured meats.

• Strawberry or Raspberry Tarts: Enhances the fruitiness while keeping the dessert from feeling too heavy.

Taittinger La Francaise Brut Champagne

retail price approx. $50

Taittinger La Française Brut is known for its high Chardonnay content (40%), giving it a bright, fresh, and delicate character. Blended with 35% Pinot Noir and 25% Meunier, this Champagne embodies the signature Taittinger style—light, floral, and beautifully balanced.

Tasting Notes

🍋 Aroma: Fresh citrus, green apple, and white flowers, with subtle notes of toasted brioche and almond.
🥂 Palate: Crisp and lively, with flavors of pear, peach, and honey, complemented by a fine mousse and delicate minerality.
✨ Finish: Long and refined, with a touch of toasty richness balanced by fresh acidity.

Food Pairings

• Fresh Oysters & Seafood Platters: The Champagne’s bright acidity pairs perfectly with shellfish.

• Lemon-Roasted Chicken or Fish: Enhances the citrus and herbal elements of the dish.

• Mild Soft Cheeses: Complements Brie, Camembert, or a creamy goat cheese.

• Light Pastries: The delicate flavors pair beautifully with buttery, flaky desserts.

No matter how you're celebrating this Valentine’s Day—whether it’s a romantic dinner, a cozy night in, or a festive gathering with friends—a great bottle of Champagne always makes the moment feel extra special. Stepping outside the usual picks can introduce you to new flavors, styles, and unexpected favorites.

So go ahead, pop something special

Xoxo, cheers!