Michigan Avenue - Niche Media - Michigan Avenue magazine is a luxury lifestyle magazine centered around Chicago’s finest people, events, fashion, health & beauty, fine dining & more!
Issue link: http://digital.greengale.com/i/67043
bar exam snap, crackle, pops! POPS FOR CHAMPAGNE CELEBRATES ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY AND SHARES THE BEST C CHAMPAGNES TO TOAST THE SUMMER SEASON. by rachel gillmant hampagne is the quintessential addition to all of life's celebrations, but it's downright de rigueur when the occasion is commemorating the bubbly beverage itself. Pops for Champagne, Chicago's most revered spot for all things sparkling, has hit the big 3-0, maturing from a small Lakeview bar to an upscale downtown destination that boasts one of the most comprehensive Champagne selections in the country. To help customers navigate the list of 150-plus varieties, Pops employs a knowledgeable staff captained by resident sommelier and beverage direc- tor W. Craig Cooper, who has become accustomed to coupling Chicago's celebrations with Champagne. "I regularly get asked what Champagnes I would recom- mend," says Cooper. "At Pops, our mission is to show that Champagne can and should be enjoyed year-round, so my typical answer is, 'Your favorite.' As for what to recom- mend for a party, consideration." that is one that deserves a certain Have a celebration coming up? Contemplate this selection of standouts from Pops's expertly curated Champagne list. Bellavista Franciacorta Cuvée Brut: This pale spar- kling wine from Lombardy, Italy, captures the essence of easy drinking with a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, and Pinot Noir grapes and a hint of spice and acid. It's an ideal pairing for an alfresco meal of Italian fare. Ayala Rich Majeur Demi-Sec: For sweeter palates, this offering from Ayala finds the balance between honeyed and cloying with a taste of sparkling nectar. The higher sugar content also acceler- ates the effervescent feeling that comes from sipping Champagne. Laurent-Perrier Ultra Brut: If the ocean produced Champagne, this would be its selection. Bone dry, acidic, and slightly briny, this seafood-friendly wine pairs perfectly with oysters. It is a rare Champagne produced without added sugars, from a blend of very ripe Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. continued on page 86 84 michiganavemag.com photography by jimmy fishbein (pops); stockfood.com (bottle)