For those times when you want a well-crafted and exquisite sparkling wine but don't want to pay top dollar for Champagne, crémant wines (French sparkling wines manufactured in the same technique as champagne, just not in Champagne) are the best choice. The terroir of Burgundy is similar to Champagne, adding complexity, making them delicious. When the situation calls for opening a second bottle that doesn't have to be Champagne-level, I also appreciate Crémant as a follow-up to Champagne. My lineup frequently includes Crémant de Bourgogne Brut, Georges de Verdy since it is a wonderful wine that is bursting with yellow apples and pears. I believe that its lovely minerality at the end distinguishes it from the competition.