It’s the 7th day of Fizzmas, and I thought we’d celebrate a lesser-known fizz. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir get all the attention, but can you name the third grape allowed in Champagne? Pinot Meunier. It’s the one that adds a lot of the perfumey aroma as well as freshness and liveliness to a sparkling wine.

Champagne houses make Blanc de Blancs from all Chardonnay and Blanc de Noirs usually from all Pinot Noir. But lately there’ve been a few Blanc de Noirs getting made from all Pinot Meunier. The New York Times just did a whole article about it and had a bunch of great suggestions. My pick would be the Gerard Loriot Brut Tradition ($40) – very delicate and floral, plus a nice change from other heavier Champs. Give it a whirl!

I could’ve titled this post “Aimee Osbourne – she’s just like wine!” but no one would’ve clicked on it because no one cares about Aimee. Actually, I’m not really sure that many people care about Kelly or Jack that much anymore either, but just trying to make a point and I couldn’t think of any other good examples. Cooper Manning maybe? Elizabeth Olsen? Lemme know if you have anything better…