What better way to commemorate the passing of winter than enjoying Perrier-Jouët with pleasant company as the sun sets on the ending of short days? Thankfully, the 5th Floor bar at Harvey Nichols shared my sentiment and so I was delighted to arrive at the Cuvée Belle Époque Champagne bottle inspired bar and see that the PJ was waiting to be uncorked and let loose for me -a little plus that goes a long way in London.

We were greeted by our waiter for the evening, Mitch who suggested a bottle of PJ Dandy Brut and we agreed without hesitation. The much needed glasses of bubbly arrived. Oh boy did this champagne deliver -the chalky undertones were balanced by a sweetness that made my tonsils sing as it swished down my throat ever so gently. I couldn’t resist an encore of this delightful champagne so I enjoyed a second glass, and a third… I’m normally not one to drink more than two glasses of champagne in a row but I was feeling spumante and the PJ was worthy of an encore or two or three…

I must say that I normally have a fickle appreciation for champagne but the PJ Dandy Brut skillfully dodged the typical failings of some its peers. There are some types of champagne that are meant only to be opened for special toasts and important occasions, but this refresher can complement any party, meal or midnight snack or it can easily be sipped by itself. A good, reliable champagne like the Dandy Brut can make any occasion memorable.

Perrier-Jouëthttp://www.perrier-jouet.com/5th Floor Bar - Harvey Nichols109-125 Knightsbridge London SW1X 7RJ, United Kingdom 020 7235 5250