1800s France wasn’t very female-friendly. Women weren’t even allowed to have bank accounts – making even more extraordinary that twenty-something Madame Clicquot not only kept her late husband’s business, but turned it into the must-have Champagne of the Russian court. The key to her success? Riddling. She invented A-frame racks to hold bottles at an angle. Rotated slowly for eight weeks, they let the sediment settle in the neck of the bottle, meaning the Champagne was clearer, higher quality, and less likely to explode in transit. It was revolutionary. Today, the Clicquot name is still synonymous with excellence. This Brut NV is aged for twice the time legally required, giving it a really biscuity, toasty flavour. Rich. Ripe. Citrussy. It’s fresh but decadent. Perfect with canapés.

Vidal-Fleury is the Rhône Valley's oldest continuously-operating winery, established in 1781. Today, head winemaker is Guy Sarton du Jonchay, whose experience takes in Bordeaux, Australia's Rosemount Estate and Cavas de Weinert of Argentina. Brilliant garnet in colour, with a classic Rhône nose of bramble fruits and heady spice. The medium-bodied palate has fresh and snappy red fruit surrounded by firm and persistent tannins. Serve alongside Lyonnaise sausage or a herby cassoulet with duck confit.

The clue's in the name. Pol Roger created this in tribute to Winston Churchill in the style of the 1928 vintage, one of his personal favourites. It's made exclusively from Grand Cru Chardonnay and Pinot Noir vineyards that were under vine in his lifetime. This is robust, full-bodied and rich, with a capacity to age for decades. It's so delicious, the family behind it keep the recipe top-secret. A fitting tribute to one of Britain's most prominent figures. Drink with oysters.

This new fizz from acclaimed Pol Roger captures Champagne at its most elegant. Made in a 'Extra Brut' style, completely unsweetened, without dosage, it's as pure as Champagne can get. Delight in it's thoroughbred notes of smoky, creamy fruit, fine beading bubbles and lingering chalky finish.