23 Jul Bubbles Without Rules: Garth Hodgdon and Champagne Happy Hour
Summary
In this episode, Garth Hodgdon shares his unexpected path from aspiring college professor to becoming a respected sommelier and Champagne expert. He offers insight into what makes Champagne so unique—from its production process to the wide range of styles available—and highlights the joy of discovering smaller, lesser-known producers.
Garth also talks about the versatility of Champagne when it comes to food pairings, encouraging listeners to move beyond traditional wine norms. Plus, we discuss the Champagne Happy Hour Club, his effort to bring distinctive and exciting bottles to wine lovers across the country.
Takeaways
- Garth’s journey into wine began in college while working in restaurants.
- Champagne can be enjoyed in various ways, including unconventional glasses.
- Domaine Mea is a small champagne producer with a rich history.
- Champagne’s aging process on lees adds complexity and flavor.
- Temperature affects the tasting experience of champagne significantly.
- Champagne pairs well with a wide range of foods, including fried and spicy dishes.
- The Champagne Happy Hour Club offers a way to explore unique champagnes monthly.
Wines Tasted
Check out Garth on Instagram HERE and get all the detail on his wine club Champagne Happy Hour HERE