We all like a sparkling wine. The satisfying pop of the cork, the effervescent bubbles that dance across our tongues, what’s not to like?

But there comes a time in every gal’s life when just any fizz won’t do. Just in time for toast season, Calgary Co-op Wine and Spirits is offering its Discover Sparkling Wines tasting event  ($30). Sip prosecco, cava, cremant while being educated on the finer points of blanc de blanc and demi-sec. You’ll be among drinking buddies so seize the opportunity to pose all those questions you were too timid to ask before, like what the heck is demi-sec. —Jaelyn Molyneux

December 9 at 2570 Southland Dr. S.W., Calgary, 403-299-5444, December 16 at 8220 Centre St. N.E., Calgary, 403-299-7764, www.coopwineandspirits.com

Dom Pérignon already has a rep as the champers of note, and now the famous champagne house has gone pop with the Andy Warhol tribute collection, a collaboration with the Design Laboratory at Central Saint Martin’s College of Art and Design.

In celebration of the three reinterpreted bottles, 100 Wines by David Walker is hosting a Canadian release party, complete with food, live art, music and a bottle of Andy’s Dom. 

Like Warhol's take on fame, we don't expect these bottles to last more than 15 minutes.

Tickets $500 (includes a bottle), February 8 at 8 p.m., 100 Wines by David Walker, 1109 Olympic Way SE. Calgary, 403-452-8820, www.davidwalkerwines.com

If you missed the swine flu but think you may have a case of the wine flu, take a dose of these winning bottles picked by our staff and you’ll be better in no time.

This sparkling wine from France’s Loire Valley comes in metallic navy blue packaging with gold script lettering, meaning it looks (and tastes) tres cher, but isn’t. We always keep some in the fridge in case of ‘emergency.’ Monmousseau Cuvée J.M. Brut, $18.99, www.bcliquorstores.com
Sarah Bancroft, editor-in-chief

The elegant ivory Paul Mas label looks perfect on your sideboard. And with notes of leather, tobacco and cherry, guys will love this hefty French bargain, too. Paul Mas Grenache Noir, 2007, $11.99, www.bcliquorstores.com
Sarah Bancroft, editor-in-chief

We’ll be ringing in a new decade with a firm patriotic stand with Trius Brut Niagara Peninsula Mousseux. Part Chardonnay and part Pinot Noire, Niagara’s Trius Brut Mousseux has lovely notes of citrus and apple. $25.70, www.saq.com
Marianne Wisenthal, Montreal editor

A nice alternative to champagne, this Italian Prosecco is organic, refreshing, readily available and inexpensive. What's not to love? Villa Teresa Frizzante Prosecco Veneto, $15.99, www.bcliquorstores.com
Joy Pecknold, Vancouver editor

Vouray Moncontour ($19.95) has bubbles so delicate and refined, it’s more like Champagne. Or go crazy and splash out for a bottle of Gosset Grand Millésime Brut Champagne 1999 ($98.25) to drink with your lover. www.saq.com
Elsa Vecchi, Montreal editor, French editor