Paris winners can easily bust out Champagne (let’s hear it for that toasty raspberry Bolly, $135) to celebrate their medals. But for those of us sitting on the couch without lucrative endorsement deals we might want to turn to more affordable French bubbles to sip on during the Closing Ceremonies. Namely, crémant which is made in the same method as Champagne but from different grapes and in other French regions. 

Crémant d’Alsace: In the northeast, Alsace makes excellent, refreshing bubbly. Regular readers know about my love of Alsatian Pinot Noir, and this Dopff & Irion Rosé (also around $20) is basically the bubbly version of it. Wild strawberries and a hint of tarragon keep it interesting. 

Crémant de Loire: And on the opposite side of France, Chenin often dominates in the Loire. Try Langlois Brut Réserve ($20), a blend of 67% Chenin, 23% Chardonnay, 10% Cabernet Franc. 

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