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Fizz The Season 🥂
Graft Wine Shop’s Femi Oyediran talks bubbles.
As the New Year approaches, we’ve got one thing - and one thing only - on our mind: what to pop when the clock strikes 12.
With that, we asked Charleston, SC-based Graft Wine Shop co-owner and sommelier, Femi Oyediran, to help us out. Oyediran, a self-professed 'music junkie' who shares the gift of a great glass over the sounds of a great album, discovered his passion for wine while working at the Charleston Grill, a renowned legend in the Charleston dining scene. While at the Grill, he passed the first three levels of the Court of Master Sommeliers within two years. He is also a two-time national finalist for the Chaine des Rotisseurs Best Young Sommelier in America competition, and the winner of the 2017 & 2019 Top Somm Blind Tasting Competition of the Charleston Wine + Food Festival. He was awarded Wine Enthusiast’s 2018 ‘40 Under 40' and named ‘Sommelier of the Year’ - alongside his business partner Miles White - by Food and Wine magazine.
"I'm pro-bubbles year-round but obviously the spirit gets a boost around the holidays. Sparkling wines, or Champagne, if you're fancy, is a sweet pick for cocktail hour if you want something fizzy."
Here are Femi's top five fizzy picks:
NV Vadin Plateau, Renaissance
"One of the best values out there! A terrific grower Champagne based on Pinot Meunier, which I love."
NV Pierre Paillard, Les Parcelles
"Paillard is one of my go-to Champagnes. 100% Pinot Noir from the Grand Cru Village of Bouzy. Racy and delicious."
Maitre de Chai, Sparkling Chenin Blanc
"These guys were working in some of the best restaurants in Napa before they became winemakers. The wines are exceptional and this Sparkling Chenin proves it. One of my favorite domestic sparklers."
NV Freres Mignon, L'Aventure
"Freres Mignon was a discovery during a visit to Champagne a few years ago. These two brothers are making world class wines and the L'Aventure cuvee is just outstanding."
2014 A Margaine, Rose de Saignee
"A deep colored vintage dated Rose Champagne from one of the great grower houses. I can't get enough of this and my chef friends love it too."
If poppin' bottles is just your style, here are some other festive fizzy faves:
Every product on Late Checkout is independently selected by us. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Loeffler Randall Rhys Champagne Glitter Jelly Sandal
We’ve got jellies, champagne and glitter? Say no more.
$175
Show Me Your Mumu Champs PJs
Raise a glass or four in these silky smooth jams.
$138
Illesteva Champagne Murdoch Sunglasses
The Champagne Murdoch Sunglasses have an old-school nostalgic feel and timeless design.
$260
LAFCO New York Champagne Hand Care Duo Gift Set
Capture the spirit of the season with sparkling citrus Champagne body care set, boxed with a bow for the holidays.
$52
BaubleBar Champagne Earrings
Make your New Year’s pop with these sparklers.
$54
ROYCE New York Personalized Leather Wine Champagne Carrying Case
What's more boujee than a monogrammed champagne carrying case? Nothing, that’s what.
$200
