Sparkling wine for under €20, ar reviewed by CONOR POPE 

Marks Spencer Don Cristobal Cava €8.99

HIGHS

This was half price in M&S in the week before Christmas so was an excellent value purchase although we’re not certain we’d be bothered buying it at full price. It was very dry and fine without being wow

LOWS

While it bubbled up impressively when it was introduced to the glass, we were mildly disappointed by the lack of lingering fizz

VERDICT

Good at this price

****

Vur Monsigny Champagne (from Aldi) €18.95

HIGHS

This smooth and dry champagne explodes into life with a tremendous pop giving it a theatrical edge over the competition. It looks more expensive than it is so you could easily smuggle it into a high class party and then slyly drink the more expensive stuff.

LOWS

While it tastes perfectly fine it is nothing special and went flat a bit quickly. We were miffed to discover that it is selling for £9.99 (€11.22) in Aldi’s UK stores

VERDICT

A bit flat

***

Maria Trevigiana Prosecco (from Lidl) €7.99

HIGHS

This is the cheapest fizz we found and it is by no means horrible. It is very light and very easy to drink, which might not be such a good thing as you could find yourself drinking way too much of it

LOWS

It is definitely thin on taste and we were less than impressed with the screw top which will rob us of a satisfying pop come the bells of midnight on Thursday

VERDICT

Very cheap

***

Jacob's Creek Sparkling Rose €16.99 

HIGHS

This is the business and has party written all over it. It’s filled with enduring bubbles which kept popping longer after the

competition had gone flat. It is full-bodied and dry, delivers a nice pop and is widely available

LOWS

Dearer than most of the competition – but by no means excessively priced and its very familiarity and availability may turn some people against it although we don’t think it should

VERDICT

Top notch

*****