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Budget bubbles: Australia's Top 10 tasty champagnes

Valentine's Day is fast approaching and what could be better than popping open a bottle of Champagne to celebrate the occasion. But if you're on a budget, you can get that Champagne taste on a sparkling wine budget - with some options coming in at less than $7.50. Speaking to 9Honey, a number of wine experts recommended their favourite sparkling under $20. Here's what they recommended: Claire Creek Sparkling Moscato Rosa NV, $3.99 "Whether enjoyed as an aperitif or over a cream layered fruit Pavlova, sparkling moscato is a great way to freshen up the palate after a meal. Lifted, light red fruits of musk, fairy floss and strawberry tropical fruits, bring freshness and a balanced sweetness to the mouth. Best served chilled." - Jason Bowyer, Wine and Sparkling Buying Director, ALDI Veuve-Olivier Sparkling Brut NV 750ml, $7.49 "If you can't go past a French bubbly, particularly a sparkling under $10, then look no further than this Gold Medal-winning bottle. This wine is a fresh, dry, and fruit-driven bubble full of citrus and toasted honey flavours. Available as part of our everyday range, this is the perfect bottle for a Valentine's Day toast." - Jason Bowyer, Wine and Sparkling Buying Director, ALDI Yellowglen Chardonnay Pinot Noir & Prosecco NV 750ml, $7.99 "This refreshing pinot noir and prosecco is exclusive to ALDI with fresh citrus and stone fruit flavours and a creamy finish." - Jason Bowyer, Wine and Sparkling Buying Director, ALDI Yellowglen Chardonnay Pinot Noir Prosecco & Rose NV 750ml, $7.99 "A pale pink, refreshing rose sparkling that is perfect for any celebration, with aromas of strawberries and white pear." - Jason Bowyer, Wine and Sparkling Buying Director, ALDI Corte Carista Prosecco NV 750ml, $9.99 "This classic prosecco from the Veneto Fruilli Venezia Giulia region is fresh and dry, with flavours of white pear, acacia flowers and elegant perfume." - Jason Bowyer, Wine and Sparkling Buying Director, ALDI Vallee Des Secrets Sparkling Cuvee NV, $12.99 "This masterful Grande Cuvee exudes freshness, vibrancy and subtle complexity. Another award winner available in stores every day, the Cuvee features flavours of white stone fruits, grapefruit and light red fruits." - Jason Bowyer, Wine and Sparkling Buying Director, ALDI Amelia & Trent Burge Versus Cuvee Brut, $14.99 "The perfect bottle of bubbles for lovers who like their sparkling wine on the crisp and dry side. This Chardonnay Pinot Noir sparkling is full of summer fruits with complex notes on the nose followed by a rich mouthfeel and a light, crisp finish." - Mathew Young, Champagne and Sparkling Wine Category Manager, Dan Murphy's Villa Conchi Brut Selection Cava, $16.99 "For the woman in your life! With the aim of paying homage to Conchi, a woman who loved French sparkling wines, Villa Conchi Cava is a tribute to women around the world. A careful selection of vineyards in the heart of Catalunya, protected by the mountain of Montserrat, has been the main focus for the production of Villa Conchi. Their Cavas aim to present a fresher style from a Mediterranean climate." - Mathew Young, Champagne and Sparkling Wine Category Manager, Dan Murphy's Belvino Prosecco DOC, $17.99 "With its eye-catching packaging, Belvino is sure to impress your Valentine. But this Prosecco from Italy is not just about the packaging! The finest grapes were chosen to create an intense sparkling wine with a rich bouquet and pronounced flavours of fresh cut pear and crisp apple. The mousse is soft and caressing and the flavours linger attractively." - Mathew Young, Champagne and Sparkling Wine Category Manager, Dan Murphy's Dean & Monroe King Valley Prosecco, $18 "If you are going for a stylish Valentine's Day picnic or table setting, this is the perfect bottle. This refreshing Prosecco from the renowned King Valley region is full of lovely flavours of melon and white peach." - Simon Wilson, BWS Learning Partner But if you do decide to splurge a little on a bottle of bubbly… Monsigny Champagne Brut NV 750ml, $22.99 "This award winner offers great value for money and is available in stores every day. With a dried apple and nutty flavour, it's a signature of high-quality Champagne." - Jason Bowyer, Wine and Sparkling Buying Director, ALDI

Food & Wine

Citrus-baked salmon with champagne mayonnaise

A side of salmon is an easy yet smart way to feed a crowd, and a glamorous mayonnaise makes it doubly splendid. Serves: 8-10 as a starter Ingredients: <ul> <li>1 side of salmon (about 1kg), bones removed</li> <li>1 orange, juice and zest </li> <li>1 lemon, juice and zest, plus extra lemons for serving</li> <li>1 teaspoon sesame oil</li> <li>1 tablespoon cider vinegar</li> <li>1 tablespoon soy sauce</li> <li>2 tablespoons brown sugar</li> <li>1 tablespoon flaky sea salt</li> <li>1 teaspoon cracked black pepper</li> <li>Microgreens or dill for garnish (optional)</li> <li>Baguette or similar for serving</li> </ul> For the mayonnaise: <ul> <li>2 egg yolks</li> <li>1 teaspoon cider vinegar</li> <li>1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest</li> <li>1 tablespoon lemon juice</li> <li>1 clove garlic, peeled and finely chopped</li> <li>1 teaspoon grated horseradish (available in jars at the supermarket)</li> <li>2/3 cup neutral-flavoured oil </li> <li>2-3 tablespoons champagne or sparkling wine</li> </ul> Method: <ol> <li>Heat oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with non-stick foil or baking paper. Place salmon on tray, skin side down. </li> <li>Combine zest and juice from orange and lemon with the sesame oil, vinegar and soy sauce. Brush mixture over salmon then sprinkle with sugar, salt and pepper, pressing these gently into the flesh. </li> <li>Bake 15-20 minutes or until the salmon flesh is just opaque. Serve on a platter, with lemon wedges for squeezing, mayo and bread on the side, and garnished with microgreens or dill if desired. </li> <li>Mayonnaise: Place egg yolks, vinegar, lemon zest and juice, garlic, horseradish and a good pinch of salt in a small food processor and pulse to combine. With the motor running, add oil in a thin, steady stream. Fold in champagne a little at a time, gently mixing until the mayo is light and creamy. </li> </ol> Written by Bernadette Hogg. Republished with permission of <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz.</a> Image credit: Stuff.co.nz.

Food & Wine

Shock footage shows flight attendant pouring champagne back into bottle

In what could perhaps be a throwback to the adage, “waste not, want not” a flight attendant has been filmed pouring a flute of champagne back into the bottle. <iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vJ35JYyIm90" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> The footage, originally filmed by Russian passenger Yevgeny Kayumov as a way of taking in the luxury business class surrounding of an Emirates aircraft, appears to catch the flight attendant red-handed, but all is not as it seems. A couple of people posting on Reddit, where the post was re-shared, cleared it up. One said: "I'm a flight attendant. I think what is going on here is that the attendant is probably pouring the unused champagne back in the bottle before take off to then dispose of once the plane takes off. We're not allowed to pour things out while we're on the ground. I bet they're pouring it all back in the bottle so they can then pour it out at cruising instead of dumping it all in the trash can making it all soggy before takeoff." Another agreed: "I can corroborate this with my own anecdote. I asked a flight attendant on my last flight what they do if nobody takes the Champagne from them before takeoff, and he said they usually pour it into an empty container (I'm assuming bottle or something) and seal it for the flight." What’s your take on the footage? Video credit: YouTube / Hands Full

Travel Tips

Rhubarb champagne

As featured in the Over60 cookbook, The Way Mum Made It, Jan Caine says of her recipe, “My grandmother made this in the 1940s. My mum made it in the ’70s. Now I make it. It’s a very old recipe that brings back such special memories of my nan and mum.” For a limited time you can get 30 per cent of the Over60 cookbook, The Way Mum Made It. To order your copy and get this recipe and 174 others, <a href="http://www.booktopia.com.au/the-way-mum-made-it-alexandra-o-brien/prod9780733335037.html" target="_blank">click here</a>. Makes: 3.75 litres Ingredients: <ul> <li>900 g rhubarb, cut into small pieces</li> <li>2 tablespoons vinegar</li> <li>2 lemons, thinly sliced</li> <li>680 g white sugar</li> </ul> Method: <ol> <li>Combine all of the ingredients with 3.75 litres of water in a large plastic container or bucket and stir well. Cover with muslin cloth and leave for 2 days.</li> <li>Strain into bottles and cork.</li> </ol> Note: The flavour improves with age.

Food & Wine

Elderflower and mint champagne cocktails

Here’s a delicious cocktail to try. The summer sun might be disappearing soon but this delicious cocktail is no less appealing. Serves: Eight Ingredients: <ul> <li>350ml elderflower cordial</li> <li>Zest and juice of 2 lemons</li> <li>Handful of mint leaves, plus extra for garnishing</li> <li>750ml Champagne or dry sparkling wine</li> </ul> Method: <ol> <li>Combine the cordial, lemon zest, juice and mint (clap the mint leaves in your hands before you put it in – this will bring out the flavour) in a jug.</li> <li>Pour a little of the mix into the bottom of each serving glass, then top up with bubbly.</li> <li>Serve immediately or garnish with berries for extra flavour. </li> </ol> Written by Sam Mannering. First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz.</a> Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/food-wine/2016/01/mojito/">Mojito</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/food-wine/2016/01/margarita/">Margarita</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/lifestyle/food-wine/2015/12/apple-berry-cream-cheese-scrolls/">Apple berry cream-cheese scrolls</a>

Food & Wine

Champagne helps prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s

Not that we need an extra excuse to break out the champers, but scientists have found that drinking three glasses of champagne every week could help prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s. Scientists at Reading University conducted an experiment that revealed a compound in pinot noir and pinot meunier can increase spatial memory and potentially ward off brain disease. Professor Jeremy Spencer at Reading University was impressed with the results, telling The Mail, “This research is exciting because it illustrates for the first time that moderate consumption of champagne has the potential to influence cognitive functioning such as memory.” Scientists hope to move onto trails involving seniors (that we’d certainly be happy to put our hands up for just quietly). While initial results are impressive the Alzheimer's Society remains cautious stating, “A lot more research is needed.” Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2015/12/abandoned-puppy-rescued-on-christmas-eve/">Abandoned puppy rescued on Christmas Eve doesn’t look like this anymore</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2015/12/new-twisting-plane-seat-design/">New twisting plane seat design could banish discomfort</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/news/news/2015/12/6-clever-uses-for-silica-gel-bags/">6 clever uses for silica gel bags</a>

News

Eat yourself smart

Ever wondered if you can eat your way to a smarter brain? Well, it would appear, you can indeed. From salmon to lentils, there are some surprising things on the list too. For instance, scientists at the University of Reading in the UK have found that champagne contains something called “phenolic compounds”, which can stimulate signals in the parts of the brain used to control memory and learning, counteracting memory loss associated with ageing. In particular, it is helpful with spatial memory, which allows us to record information about our surroundings and navigate around it. The benefits are noticeable with one to two glasses a week, but it can't be any old fizzy white wine. It was discovered that the nutrients are only abundant in the two red grapes used to make champagne – pinot noir and pinot meurier. Here we’ve compiled a list of some of the foods that might just up your IQ. Quick, get shopping!Salmon: Omega-3 fatty acids are an all-important nutrient to help improve mental alertness and wellbeing. Said “good” fats are linked to improved memory and brain function, and have been shown to support healthy cognitive function as well as improving mood and helping to tackling stress.Water: Ensuring your body is kept hydrated is essential for it to function at its fullest. This includes our brain cells. So, if you are feeling tired, irritable, or just a bit slow, drink a glass of water, wait 20 minutes, and see if it perks you up a bit.Eggs: This breakfast favourite is packed with B-vitamins, omega-3 and 6 fats and amino acids to help support brain function.Bananas: Rich in antioxidants and minerals that help to transport oxygen to the brain, bananas also contain nutrients like magnesium and potassium, which are essential for good cognitive function. Oats: Wholegrain, slow-release foods like oats are not just good for providing your brain with a constant stream of energy, helping to stabilise energy levels and help your brain have a steady supply of glucose.Walnuts: Hungry? Why not reach for a handful of nuts. Great for providing slow-release energy, as well as iron, omega-3 fatty acids, protein and vitamin E, walnuts are a great way to help with healthy brain function.Champagne: Thanks to scientists at the University of Reading you now have a reason to not feel so guilty about having the odd glass. Bubbles contain something called “phenolic compounds”, which can stimulate signals in the parts of the brain used to control memory and learning, counteracting memory loss associated with ageing.Dark chocolate: Chocoholics can rejoice – the dark stuff is good for your brain. This is because it contains antioxidants and minerals like magnesium and iron, all of which help to transport oxygen to the brain.Spinach: Containing all of the brain-boosting minerals you can think of, plus beautifying anti-oxidants and skin conditioning minerals, spinach is a no-brainer.Broccoli: Providing a whole host of vitamins and minerals essential for brain functioning, including iron, B-vitamins, potassium and calcium, broccoli is one of the most nutrient-rich vegetables.Steak: Steak is also rich in iron – a mineral essential for oxygen transportation. In order for our brain cells to develop, multiply and work to their maximum function they need a steady and plentiful supply of oxygen, so getting your fill of minerals like iron is essential.Lentils: Rich in protein, B-vitamins, iron and slow-release energy, lentils are good for your brain for several reasons.Plums: Full of natural sugars to provide slow-release energy; plums also contain fibre and antioxidants.

Mind

Champagne breakfast: Fancy eggs and bubbles

Thanks to community contributor, Anne Taylor, breakfast just got a whole lot more bubbly and exciting.Ingredients:<ul><li>Eggs and egg rings (2 eggs per person)</li><li>Sour cream for each egg (depending on how many people you’re cooking for, you’ll need one or two cartons)</li><li>Caviar for each egg</li><li>Bacon (2 rashers per person)</li><li>Tomato for grilling (1 per person)</li><li>Sourdough bread for toasting</li><li>Champagne, to accompany breakfast</li></ul>Method:1. Grease an oven tray and place egg rings on the tray. Crack the eggs into the rings and add sour cream to the top – you want to pile the sour cream on.3. Cook at low temperature 160°.4. Keep checking to see if the eggs are cooked soft, medium or hard depending on how you like then.5. Meanwhile, cook bacon, grill tomatoes and toast thick slices of sourdough.6. When eggs are cooked to your liking, add caviar to the top of the eggs. 7. Place eggs on a plate with crispy bacon, grilled tomato and toasted sourdough. Don’t forget the Champagne!

Food & Wine

Perfect Melbourne Cup drink: Mango and passionfruit champagne cocktail

It's time to giddy up on over into celebration mode ladies and gentleman because it's Melbourne Cup time again. From ladies' lunches to afternoon drinks trackside, we have the perfect drink for this gorgeous weather come race day.Serves: 12 Preparation time: 10 minutesIngredients:<ul><li>3 large mangoes</li><li>18 passionfruits</li><li>7 bottles of good-quality champagne</li><li>Mint to garnish</li><li>A few ice-cube trays</li></ul>Method:1. Cut the cheeks from the mangoes close to the stone. Use a large metal spoon to scoop out the flesh, place in the bowl of a food processor and process until smooth.2. Combine mango puree and passionfruit pulp in a bowl and stir until well combined.3. Pour into four ice cube trays and freeze for six hours or overnight until set. 4. To serve, place a fruit ice cube in each champagne glass and stand at room temperature for five minutes or until ice cube begins to melt. Pour over chilled champagne. Add a couple of leaves of mint out the top of the glass. Serve immediately.

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Budget bubbles: Australia's Top 10 tasty champagnes

Citrus-baked salmon with champagne mayonnaise