In his twilight years, the famous economist John Maynard Keynes said that his only regret in life was that he hadn’t drunk more Champagne. As someone who knew a thing or two about money, though, Keynes would have realized that a regular diet of Champagne can be an expensive habit. That’s the beauty of Crémant, the French sparkling wine produced in other parts of France. The best examples can rival Champagne in quality while costing considerably less. For proof, look no further than Paul Nicolle’s brilliant Crémant de Bourgogne Extra Brut. It’s made by Charly Nicolle, who had worked in Champagne before taking over the Chablis-based domaine founded by his grandfather, using 100% Pinot Noir grapes from a small vineyard Charly and his wife Lucie Thieblemont acquired just outside the boundary of the Champagne appellation. Produced entirely in-house, their Crémant is aged on lees for a period even longer than required for bubbly from Champagne proper. Crisp and bright, with green apple and citrus flavors complemented by a hint of brioche, it pairs perfectly with a creamy Delice de Bourgogne. But at its sale price, you won’t regret popping open a bottle on any occasion. 122364