I’ve never drank a lot of actual Champagne. It’s one of those regions where I often feel like I’m paying the price for the name “Champagne.” Plus, I’ve had a difficult time finding any in stores local to me that’s not one of the giant houses. If I’m going to spend $50+ on a bottle of wine, I really do want something unique, not s big name wine you can find in every supermarket. Additionally, I am on a quest this year to drink more bubbles, so a bottle of sparkling or Champagne is making its way into an almost weekly rotation in our house! Tonight we tried the A Margaine Brut Premier Cru Champagne. I picked this up at Unwined in Alexandria, VA for $46.99, it had a traditional Champagne closure, and clocked in at 12% alcohol by volume.
Right out of the glass aromas of walking into a bakery jumped out. Yeasty dough, fresh baked bread, sourdough bread, a carb lover’s dream. I also got lemon and wafers with a hint of cream. In the mouth, more lemon, green apple, lime, and bread. I thought it almost tasted reminiscent of a pineapple Lifesaver on the finish. Overall I’ve call this wine delicate (I used that word at least 3 times in my notes!) and refined. It convinced me that I must drink more Champagne from smaller producers.
Wannabe Wino Wine Blog 
I couldn’t agree more with you. While I still have some NM’s that I like and will continue to drink, I’m of the mindset to seek out more grower Champagnes. A few that I really enjoy are Pierre Peters, Henri Billiot, Jean Milan (they have NM status, but are primarily estate wine) and Rene Geoffroy. Cheers!
I have to admit, I often pass by Champagne for other French Sparklers (louis bouillot is FABULOUS) or Cava or Prosecco given the price to quality ration. However, 2 weeks ago I attended a trade tasting of Jon David Headrick selections and two of their Champagnes ($50 range) were literally, heaven.
We often shun brand names, thinking we’re paying for the PR firms and the name itself. However, there are often reasons those names command the price. I’m glad you, and I, are open to trying things we may previously pass up!
Cheers
Matt
Reminds of one of my favorite song played Oasis – Champagne Supernova
If you’re into bubbles, you might try Lambrusco. Its produced as a red or a white, sweet or dry. Villa Italia makes a good one, imported by Terranova.