Canadian Champagne

[pmkmom]

We found 2 bottles of President Cuvee 2000 and 2001 Canadian Champagne from Niagara Falls in our cupboard.. anyone have any info on taste, shelf life, value?? they are both decorated bottles with Canadian scenes wrapped around them. Thanks in advance.

[bytepusher]

Unfortunately what you have there is nothing special. President Champagne is the sparkling wine brand used by Vincor. Despite being labeled as "Canadian Champagne" it probably was made, at least in part, from imported juice. It was a cheap brand that retailed for around 10 bucks a bottle. Don't expect much. Niagara is capable of producing some quite nice sparkling wine, but this isn't it.

Probably still drinkable although the idea that they've been in a cupboard suggests maybe they haven't been kept in ideal cellaring conditions.

[sunshine842]

Chill them, open them up and try them...and have a bottle of creme de cassis or orange juice on hand -- making a Buck's Fizz/Mimosa or a Kir is a good way to drink sparkling wine that's not so hot on its own.

[julesrules]

That's what I would do as well, brunch with differen mimosas (I like passion fruit juice) or simple nibblies with different champagne cocktails.

[pmkmom]

Thank You so much for all the advice and thanks to Chowhound for directing my question in the right location! Mimosa's sound perfect for these.

[bogie]

Unfortunately, this is NOT good stuff. However, next time you are in Niagara, try and find some sparkling wine from 13th Street or Flat Rock. They are wonderful!