I think it’s fair to say that 2020 does not look good for those of us who love to travel. I have already had to cancel business and leisure trips to parts of Europe because of lockdowns and travel restrictions. The rapid spread of the coronavirus might have made flights cheaper than ever, but there is no point flying somewhere just to get stuck in quarantine.
A huge part of my travels is wine tasting. I love going to countries with significant wine cultures and experiencing the best their vineyards have to offer. Australia, Cape Town, and Chile have all lived up to their reputations, at the very least rivaling Napa Valley. But my heart has long been set on Champagne in France. Unfortunately, it does not look like I will get to make my planned visit in the near future.
Luckily, trade continues for now, and while people are fighting over toilet paper, there is still no shortage of good French wine. Making the most of the situation, I have decided to enjoy it in a different way.
The best of both worlds
There really is a way to get the best of both worlds. Napa Valley is a regular haven of mine, and I love visiting different vineyards and tasting wines I haven’t tried before. When I’m at home, however, I try different bottles of Champagne. There is little I savor more than sitting with friends and sipping on a glass of premium Champagne.
The great thing about Champagne is that, while it always retains its sense of festive quality, different vintages and styles each provide a unique experience. Various companies have managed to get the most out of the grapes to craft wine with gorgeous aesthetics and flavors. Getting these different options in California gives me the chance to enjoy the best of both worlds. I am around friends, celebrating life while tasting France.
Of course, Champagne doesn’t come cheap. However, there are ways to lower costs and drink quality vintages within a budget.
Saving money
Canceling my Eurotrip obviously saved me a lot of money that I can now spend on wine. But you don’t need a sudden windfall from canceled plans to get to try different Champagnes. Joining the best Champagne club will give you the opportunity to try a range of quality Champagnes without breaking the bank. You will be able to get some bottles as gifts or for major discounts, along with regular tasters of a huge range.
Joining a Champagne club really opens up the door to becoming an expert in your own right. For a relatively small monthly fee, you get a taste of France delivered to your front door.
Nothing compares to visiting a vineyard where your favorite grape is grown. However, in 2020 it is getting increasingly difficult to make and keep travel plans. For the foreseeable future, we’re going to have to stay within certain boundaries. Make the most of it by joining a club and experiencing Champagne from the comfort of your home in California.
