With the holiday season right around the corner, champagne lovers may want to reconsider where they source their bubbly this Christmas. A recent taste test conducted by the consumer champion Which? unveiled exciting results, demonstrating how three popular supermarkets have outperformed one of the most prestigious names in champagne, Moët & Chandon.
Shoppers planning festive celebrations are urged to check out Tesco, Aldi, and Waitrose for their sparkling wine selections as the taste test declared them the best options. Tesco's Finest Premier Cru Brut Champagne clinched the top score of 82%, earning the coveted "Best Buy" accolade and costing just £25 per bottle. This supermarket fizz impressed judges with its "nutty aroma and fresh, fruity flavours," setting the bar high for competitors.
Not far behind, Aldi’s Veuve Monsigny Premier Cru Brut Champagne also shone brightly, scoring 80%. Priced at £22, it was praised for its delightful aroma featuring crunchy green apples along with hints of pecans, spice, and butterscotch, making it another fantastic option for festive toasts.
Meanwhile, Waitrose’s brut NV Champagne matched Aldi’s score of 80% and was similarly recognized as a "Best Buy." Costing £25, this champagne boasts "pleasing peach, pear and apple flavours, with superb nut and winter spice taste," offering consumers yet another delightful option to celebrate the season.
These remarkable supermarket selections managed to outshine traditional luxury brand Moët & Chandon, which, at nearly double the price at £44, scored only 77% during the test. Many consumers may find themselves opting for these affordable yet high-quality alternatives, particularly as the economy tightens and household budgets face scrutiny.
Noteworthy is how Which? not only focused on champagne but also expanded their review to include affordable sparkling wines, making the process more accessible for budget-conscious consumers. For example, Lidl’s Prosecco Superiore Valdobbiadene scored 80% as well, costing just £7.49 per bottle. Tagged as an “excellent alternative to champagne and perfect for Christmas parties,” this bubbly extends the festive spirit without breaking the bank.
According to Which?, the panel of four independent wine experts conducted blind tastings on selected non-vintage champagnes. Interestingly, the results showcased how the premium segments can be surpassed by more affordable options, emphasizing quality without excessive spending.
Natalie Hitchins, the Which? home products and services editor, stressed the importance of these taste tests: “Millions of people like to toast the festive season with some fizz, and our panel found affordable and delicious options dramatically cheaper than alternatives from the big-name champagne houses. Our taste tests show you don’t have to spend over the odds for supermarket champagne or sparkling wine, making it the perfect Christmas tipple.”
The announcement of these supermarket champions coincides beautifully with the start of the festive shopping season, as households begin to stock up on holiday essentials. According to Kantar, analysts noted sales of festive foods, including mince pies and Christmas cakes, have already begun rising dramatically, with around 14.4% of households grabbing the iconic mince pies before even December hits.
Shoppers are also encouraged to quickly decide on their Christmas menus, as the Which? taste tests also yielded results on other festive staples, including mince pies. Notably, Waitrose’s No.1 Brown Butter Mince Pies—with Cognac—topped the list with their rich buttery flavor, enticing aroma, and generous filling of nuts and spices, which sold for £4 for six pies.
Aldi's Specially Selected Mince Pies weren’t far behind either, cherished for their buttery taste and uniquely festive design. At just £2.29 for six, these affordable pies also received the Which? Great Value endorsement.
Returning to the competition on champagne, the results present significant opportunities for consumers who want to celebrate Christmas without paying premium prices. The holiday season is known for its festive cheer, making celebratory moments like champagne toasts integral to gatherings and family connections.
2024 is presenting unique challenges with economic pressures contrasting against the traditions of festivity. Compared to previous years, families might feel compelled to find the best value for money without sacrificing quality, and this year’s Which? report offers clarity on where to find both.
So this holiday season, as you raise your glass for toasts filled with spirit and laughter, think carefully about what you pour. Will you choose the acclaimed Tesco, the praised Aldi, or the celebrated Waitrose? Whichever you select, you'll be joining the many who are enjoying exceptional bubbly fit for the festive occasion at truly affordable prices, proving once again, sometimes the little supermarkets can serve up the best treats.
