Festive Cheer

Well, it is only four days to the big day, and I have promised myself one of these to help celebrate.
But then, I don't really need it to be the season of goodwill and good cheer to enjoy a glass or three of bubbly. It's a passion I have become accustomed to over many years and long may it continue.
In time past, it was always a treat to visit champagne country just before Christmas, and sample some of the wares of the great champagne houses, and indeed the lesser known names as well. They were times of great expectations which never disappointed.
Then there was the time I was staying away and feeling very much under the weather through having over-indulged the night before. A friend kindly took me under his wing and promised coffee; but then I was a trifle alarmed to hear the pop of a champagne cork.  But his remedy worked — headache gone, and I was feeling on top of the world in no time.
I cannot remember when I first began to appreciate champagne. Indeed, most sparkling wines, although I could draw the line at those varieties which were far too sweet for my taste.
But it's countdown time to Christmas. Tomorrow I shall make sure I have one of these in the fridge, chilled but not too cold.
Just as a taster before the big day itself, you understand!