With wines from France, Luxembourg, Italy and England, as well as the New World, there was a wider variety to choose from here than in the past

As one would expect, this was the most satisfying of the sparkling flights, with higher prices, yes, but also better value for money

Quality was hard to find in this most competitive of segments, as indeed was value for money

No champagnes at these prices, but plenty of interesting alternatives, often in a light, fresh style that’s perfect for summer by-the-glass drinking