Arizona is not the only place hot this summer, most of the country has been experiencing record-setting temperatures and it leads me to ask the question, “Why do people not drink more Champagne? Or sparkling wine or for that matter a light and delicate prosecco”? I am one of those who believe that bubbles go with everything and pop corks year round but recently I noticed how much I am enjoying a glass of bubbles more often than any other beverage including white wine.

Drinking Champagne and sparkling wine is a refreshing choice, especially in the heat of summer, it is an experience lost on those who only drink it for celebrations, for no other beverage delights the senses quite the same way. The enjoyment begins with the feel of a cool flute in my hand and the visual dance of bubbles rushing to the surface followed by a brief moment before the first sip when aromas burst to life. Taste buds are teased with anticipation before the first delicious drop touches my lips then instantly my palate is alive with delicate fruit flavors which linger through to the finish inciting another mouth-watering sip. Pure enjoyment is the only reason needed to order a glass or a bottle, especially on a hot day when it helps make the heat a bit more enjoyable, especially here in the desert.

Summer is not just warm it is also a time for BBQ’s and casual get togethers with friends, my first choice for bringing to the party is usually a bottle of bubbles it goes with many dishes and brings a smile to the host’s face. Another plus is as temperatures soar outside people naturally chose lighter foods in smaller portions, Champagnes and sparkling wines offer a wide range of choices when it comes to food and wine pairings, from appetizer to dessert. Some of my favorites are summer fruits and melon, Quiche and egg dishes, salads, seafood especially sashimi and tartare, a light vegetable pasta, meat lightly grilled and of course my personal favorite fried chicken especially when packed in a picnic lunch.

I have really never met a bottle of Champagne I didn’t like so if you are enticed to pop a cork on a bottle this summer and join me in a glass I have listed below the bubbles I have recently been Sip’IN:

Affordable – perfect for everyday drinking

Santa Margherita Prosecco, Valdobbiadene, NV Approachable and soft reminds me of summer peaches pairs well with brunch, breakfast or as an afternoon cocktail.

Social – for entertaining friends or a casual get together

Nicolas Feuillatte, Brut, Champagne, Eperney, NV Elegant with aromas of orange blossom and honey pairs well with most seafood.

Nicolas Feuillatte, Brut Rose, Champagne, Eperney, NV A basket of bright red summer berries and soft spice pairs well with grilled summer meats.

Sip’INN Tip: Seek out the 187 ml’s Brut and Brut Rose NV perfect to enjoy at home when you are in the mood for a glass without having to pop a full bottle

Familiar – like a trusted friend you enjoy visiting with time and time again

Veuve Clicquot, ‘Yellow Label’, Brut, Champagne, Reims, NV Rich and toasty like fresh apple preserves on brioche, pair with summer pastas and fried chicken.

Splurge – when you want to treat yourself

Krug, ‘Grand Cuvee’, Brut, Champagne, Reims, NV Sophisticated complex flavors of citrus, stone fruit and vanilla spice, pairs well with everything or nothing.