Pop the Cork: We Found the Best Champagne Brands

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When there's something worth celebrating, there's nothing better than breaking out a bottle of bubbly. Everything about it―popping the cork, clinking those pretty flutes, saying "cheers," and of course, drinking the festive fizz―makes the celebration so memorable. Whether it's watching the ball drop on New Year's Eve, celebrating an amazing new life event, or a simply enjoying a fun brunch-time party with endless mimosas, these moments call for the best champagne brands.

Not every chilled bottle of bubbles is created equal, though. While prosecco, cava, and other sparkling wines are delicious in their own right, there's something about the rounded flavor and distinct bubbles of the "méthode champenoise" that make it extra special. That's why we're here to help recap the best champagnes out there, so you know just where to go when you have a reason to celebrate. They all taste amazing on their own as you make a toast, while also pairing well with New Year's Eve appetizers and charcuterie boards.

The following list stays pretty true to the official French position that only sparkling wines made in the Champagne region of France can be called champagne. We don't need to get into the sparkling wine vs. champagne debate here―there's too much clinking and sipping to do! Just know that no matter which one you decide on, rest assured these will all truly make your celebration special. Now get ready to pop that cork and celebrate. Cheers!

Veuve Clicquot Brut NV Champagne

This medium-bodied, brut champagne is known for being consistent and well-balanced. That's why you'll see the telltale yellow label at many celebrations! It is dry and has the flavors of ripe fruit, making it very drinkable no matter the occasion.

Dom Pérignon Brut Champagne

Possibly the most famous name in champagne, Dom Pérignon is the ultimate splurge pick if you want to celebrate something super special. It is light-bodied with a hint of richness from the Chardonnay grapes harvested for each year's vintage.

Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Blue Label

Yes, you can get a highly rated, brut champagne for an affordable price! It is medium-bodied with a rich and creamy mouthfeel that would go excellent with dessert. Of course, it goes well on it's own, too, so it's totally worth buying a few bottles.

Taittinger Brut La Francaise Champagne NV

A mix of chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier grapes makes this brut bright and fuller-bodied. It's consistently at the top of lists of brands to buy. Similar wines cost upwards of 40 percent more, so you're definitely getting a deal!

Bollinger Special Cuvée Brut Aÿ Champagne

With fine velvety bubbles and reliance on Pinot Noir grapes, this Bollinger pairs very well with everything from sushi to salty parmesan. It was also supposedly the brand of choice for James Bond, if you want to throw some trivia into your dinner party!

Moet & Chandon Rosé Imperial

We love the color of the bottle as much as we love the color and taste of this rosé. You can't go wrong with any of the Moet & Chandon champagne styles, but this dry brut in particular is lively and bright on the palate and in the glass.

Tsarine Cuvee Adriana Brut Champagne

Just look at that bottle! Your guests will gather to watch you pour the wine but stay for more sips thanks to the full, round flavor of fruit with notes of ripe, juicy apples.

Laurent-Perrier Harmony Demi-Sec

If you like something a little bit sweeter, try a demi-sec instead of a brut. Laurent-Perrier is just the right amount of sweet to drink as is or helps balance out a heavier dish like fried foods and cheese dishes.

Louis Roederer Collection 243 Champagne Gift Box

A classic champagne from Louis Roederer with two hand-crafted flutes is an easy gift idea for any type of celebration. They'll love to celebrate with this highly-rated, bright vintage.

Ruinart Blanc De Blancs NV

The term "blanc de blancs" designates wines that are only made out of white grapes―in this case, chardonnay. They are typically cleaner and crisper than other champagnes, but you'll still get the same depth and touch of creaminess from aging.

Krug Grande Cuvée Brut Champagne NV

Much like a bottle of Dom, Krug is best for a special occasion. Fans call this champagne a "game changer" and a "masterclass in elegance" for its fine bubbles and level of complexity. It's worth the price if you want to try one of the best in the world!

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