Tom Doorley - Best Value Wines 2020

L. BÉNARD PITOIS BRUT RÉSERVE 1ER CRU, NV

"If this is not the best value Champagne in the country at present, it's certainly way up there. Of course, the real value lies away from the grandes marques. They say a poor grower in Champagne has to wash his own Porsche, but grower's Champagnes - the ones with relatively obscure labels - are often super. As in this example, cleverly ferreted out by David Whelehan from amongst the hundreds out there. Big enough for the dining table. Great with creamy fish pie".

BOUVET-LADUBAY CRÉMANT DE LOIRE ROSÉ, NV

"Even though these Loire winemakers use the same methods of wine making as those in Champagne, they are not allowed to draw attention to the fact. This is made from Cabernet Franc. Stylish bubbles in a pretty shade of pink."

Tom Doorley, The Irish Mail, 13/12/20