Supermarket fizz: Alice King's pick of the best

Alice King uncovers some flat-out losers and some stunning sparklers among the supermarket bubblies. Here’s her pick of the best

The price of putting on a party can vary hugely, depending on what you serve guests to drink. So, ever conscious of budgets and as spring has sprung and wedding bells are in the air, it seemed an opportune time to have a look at supermarket own- label champagnes.

A few years ago I would have had no hesitation in recommending shoppers to reach for the first champagne on the supermarket shelf. But following my recent tasting of over 30 such champagnes, I would not be quite so blasé.

Many of these fizzes tasted synthetic, concocted and metallic. Frankly, I was surprised and disappointed by the overall quality. It’s as if we have been lulled into a false sense of security. The marketers have done their job of convincing us a supermarket name is a sign of quality, but the products are not living up to this promise. I cannot see any particular reason for this. There have been no disastrous vintages and, with millennium sales of fizz rather less than anticipated, there should be lots of fizz around with extra bottle age. I can only deduce that some supermarket wine buyers have become complacent and lost the plot somewhat.

But don’t worry. I’ve done the difficult bit and sifted out the dross, so you’ll be quite safe to invest in any of the wines recommended.

Non-vintage champagnes
Prince William Blanc de Noir, £11.99 Somerfield. Many people raise an eyebrow or two when you recommended buying wine at Somerfield. The reason their wines are so good is down to the palate and skill of their buyer (female, of course!), Angela Mount. This fizz is made entirely from black grapes and, while it’s white in colour, has a distinct aroma and flavour of raspberries. Drink on its own or with spring lamb.

Tesco Blanc de Noir, £11.99. Another fizz made entirely from black grapes, this is fairly full-bodied with a raspberry ripple flavour. Tastes good with chicken, turkey and rare roast beef.

Oudinot Marks and Spencer, £13.99. Easy drinking sherbet-like fizz. Perfect aperitif.

Waitrose Blanc de Blancs, £15.99. Made from 100 percent white Chardonnay grapes, this is rich with biscuity, creamy overtones. Drink on its own or with creamy fish and chicken dishes.