Shutterstock Any occasion is a good one to drink Champagne, but for those looking for the perfect holiday host, sommelier Lauren Friel has some tips It’s almost the holidays, and as we celebrate the season and ring in the New Year, many of us will be popping open a bottle of bubbly: prosecco, Lambrusco, pét-nat, cava, and of course, Champagne. But for the average drinker, telling the difference between all of these forms of fizz might be a challenge — not to mention picking the right one to bring to your seasonal get-together, without breaking the bank. Thankfully, Gastropod is here to help. In the latest episode, co-hosts Cynthia Graber and Nicola Twilley break down the science and history behind sparkling wine, from the monks and widows, kings and celebrities who made it so special, to the tricks that the rest of us mere mortals can use to make sure we get the best out of our bubbly. Featured on the episode is Gastropod’s favorite sommelier, Lauren Friel, founder of Somervi
