A Classy Gift For You and The Host/Hostess
Soho House (SH) is known for their impeccable taste in interiors and hospitality for style makers and the famous who are interested in exclusive access and experiences. And for the rest of us we can enjoy the pictures but here’s the thing, we can also recreate the Soho vibe in our own lives. While I’ve been known to enjoy a fabulous glass of champagne I find the $110 price tag for two bottles too steep. One does have to draw the line somewhere (right?!).
If you want to experience the lifestyle in your everyday life, here’s a dupe for you or to gift to a friend. Soho House Master Sommelier Vincent Gasnier has selected a sparkling wine selection which is described as “ fresh, light and crisp – perfect to open your taste buds pre-party.” Doesn’t that sound like perfection? Unfortunately, for all of us outside of the UK it cannot ship and perhaps we’re lucky. I say that because I managed to find a few options to recreate the same experience on an everyday budget. That way you won’t feel like you’re drinking money just casually enjoying a Monday night. It’s kind of like having access to a Sommelier without the price tag and the pomp and circumstance. If you have $110 to spend on champagne you might as well get 2 bottles of Veuve and call it a day. But also… I’d like to point out that idea was shared with me from my husband (hahaha who would be irritated if I did that btw)!
About the selection
Champagne Testulat Carte d'Or, Brut Blanc de Noirs
What you should know: It’s rated 4.5 out of 5, the price tag is a reasonable $11.99 -$15
Pairing Notes: Several sites describe this sparkling wine as good on it’s own, fruity, and a good pairing for most meals.
Where to get it: You can order it online in a few places but I found it here for the best rate.
Charles de Fere Blanc de Blancs, Brut Reserve
What you should know: This is a harder bottle to track down and is currently $36.85 in the USA. The price is driven by the fact that it’s considered a hand batch vs. a mass produced sparkling wine and of course has excellent reviews. Wouldn’t expect anything less!
Where to get it: If you’re into that sort of thing, create an account on the Charles do Fere website and set-up an alert and/or go to a local wine shop and ask around.
Alternatives: As an alternative, I highly recommend a bottle of Gloria Ferrer Brute that can be picked up at Trader Joe’s or Target. Some Costco’s also carry Gloria and it’s approximately $14.
Presentation still matters
And don’t forget the beautiful purple box. Hay (a company that specializes in furniture, accessories, and lighting) offers several sized boxes in gorgeous colors. Look for a stockist near you. I’ve also found some of their products at Home Goods but they are rare finds my friends.
It’s always fun to give a gift in a beautiful container or thoughtfully wrapped especiallu when the gift boxes/containers can find a second life as a part of your interior design shelfie. If you’re looking for something easier to get your hands on, consider World Market (for a wire basked) or Amazon for a box.