The house of Besserat de Bellefon was founded in 1843 near Ay in Champagne, and is now based in Epernay. The hallmark of the house is the lower than normal pressure that the wine is kept at under cork. This lower than normal pressure does not reduce the effervescence, but softens it, allowing the wine to partner better with food. Aspect: Coppery and bright, nuances of yellow straw Bouquet: Open and indulgent, wisps of linden blossom, honeysuckle, hazelnuts, mirabelle plum Palate: Harmonious, balanced, vinous Assemblage : Chardonnay I Pinot Noir I Pinot Meunier

Founded just before the French Revolution in 1785 by Florens-Louis Heidsieck, Heidsieck & Co Monopole is the original Heidsieck House and the 4th oldest Champagne house in the region. Delicate nose that opens with a scent of stewed yellow fruits (apricot, quince), enhanced by light notes of acacia and honey. Very long and fresh on the palate with notes of ripe fruit and candied lemon, embellished with slightly buttered pastry notes.

The guiding principles of blending are the achievement of harmony and consistency. The White Foil blend is traditionally composed from around 80 still base wines, drawn from different vineyard sites (crus), grape varieties and vintage years. The blend contains approximately one third of each three grape varieties of Champagne. Pinot Noir contributes body, depth of character and life extending tannins, Pinot Meunier adds youthful freshness, vigour and plump fruit character while Chardonnay gibes lightness, elegance and firmness.

One of France's most historic and distinctive champagne houses, Perrier Jouët has the essence of passion in every drop. Creating exceptional experiences that enhance everyday life, Perrier Jouët is influenced by the founders' love of nature and art.

The deep, blushed rouge of this firm, well-structured, mouth-filling vinous Rose is underpinned by a powerful bouquet of plums and blackberries, and the rich flavours of forest fruits, pomegranate and raspberries. Regis Camus, International Wine Challenge Sparkling Winemaker of the Year 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012.

'Rose were for long regarded as the illegitimate offspring of Champagne, recipients of coarse, heavy pressings wines partially masked by high dosage levels. Today they are routinely priced above 'normal' NV (or vintage) blends and are carefully made. Whether they really merit the premium is irrelevant: the market has spoken. But Laurent-Perrier is a special case: this is 100% pinot noir, rather than a blend coloured by pinot noir red wine. The full salmon colour is an immediate indication of its provenance, the bouquet complex and alluring, leading directly into the cherry and strawberry flavours of the long, sustained palate; excellent finish and aftertaste.' - 95 points, James Halliday Top 100

The Grand Dame of Moet & Chandon the Vintage has spent years in the cellars to emerge as a star of the Champagne line. It's best to just pop the cork and fall in love all over again this Valentines Day.