Champagne Wishes & hibiscus Dreams?

Valentine’s Day passed quickly, but offered just enough time to warrant a small indulgence. I decided to have a glass of a new Champagne, Chandon’s Brut Classic, and served the sips in a festive-floral flute. The glass itself was plain, but it got all glittered-up for the occasion with a hibiscus flower in rose syrup. Come again? I thought the same thing when I first came upon these curious beverage blooms, so I had to investigate. They’re displayed on the shelves right next to the bubbly, in neatly packged jars of preserved hibiscus flowers, all amidst a dark rose syrup. Hard to tell what the jar contents actually look like, so I just had to buy my own and see. At first glance they semi-resemble small sea creatures, sort of miniature octopus-like, but then I placed within the glass and added the brut. This is what we got…  

Basic bubbles transformed into faintly floral libations, worthy of a Valentine’s toast! And who needs caviar and yachts? Sorry Robin Leach, but I’d prefer to celebrate with a California brut and burrito any day! I will say the attempt at fancy flower adornments was different in taste than I imagined. If I had a do-over, I  would rinse the buds to remove the strong syrup essence (It just reminded me too much of helping my Dad pick up garden clippings as a kid). They were for sure aesthetically pleasing, and would make a good garnish for parties or springtime celebrations. If nothing else, a worthy conversation starter…  and who wouldn’t love to tell the kids there was a sea anemone in their drink?

Chandon Champagne

with rose Hibiscus flower

The Champagne itself proved to be the brightest point of the beverage as it was is from one of Napa’s best- Domaine Chandon. I have been lucky enough to visit the  Napa Estate of Chandon several years back, where I did a wonderful tasting. What a cool experience, full of  fantastic varietals. (Not to mention our server resembled & sounded identically to Snoop Dog, no joke) It really did make the visit more enjoyable…

Chandon boasts a well-rounded protfolio of excellent Champagnes, produced in the French style, or méthode champenoise from their original vineyard- France’s Moet & Chandon. These guys have a 250 year Champagne crafting history up their sleeves. I have also been fortunate enough to visit that Estate and glad I did! Truely a great winery to see either in Europe, or maybe more feasibly in California. They offer a spectacular, tour-worthy property, and of course amazing tastings. Check out the details & some scenic pics at, http://www.chandon.com/. If you’re in Napa, it’s a must stop. This one is a perfect celebratory toast for any holiday, though Valentines’ day is a pretty good excuse too. I hope you enjoyed yours & had some chocolate while you were at it… Cheers!