Cheap(er) Date

Hey, lover. How ’bout a nip of that bubbly stuff?

Few among us, even the loveless, are immune to the seduction of bubbles. And, like it or not, the marketing machinery of the world attaches the sale of Champagne – and its foreign relatives – to Valentine romance. Regardless of whether you’re in the mood for sparklers on February 14, you can typically take advantage of price breaks and hold out for future occasions – amorous and otherwise.

To the point: Kicking off on February 12, watch for numerous PLCB mark-downs starting at $7.

Included in the sale will be Chairman’s Selections like the Alfred Gratien Brut Classique ($31.99) and the Decelle Tradition Brut ($23.99), both worthy of your advances.

A Chenin Blanc, the De Chanceny Vouvray Brut Excellence 2011 ($8.99), offers an assertive nose, yeasty/breadiness on the palate with great acidity, grapefruit and a lasting finish. Mineral and expressive, it’s a well-crafted wine for a terrific price. Think about serving it alongside fish (I had great results with red snapper).

The Secoli Prosecco Valdobbiadine 2013 ($8.99) stands out as crisp and clean, with impressive cling on the finish. Sour green apple galore joins with stony clean lines for a bracing, refreshing quaff with light bead and the slightest hint of residual sugar. The intensity and sharpness delivers well above its price grade.