Episode 006-It is fitting and proper during the time of celebrations that champagnes, prosecco, and other  sparkling wines are offered to give toasts or merely to enjoy during a party. Howard Riedel is our wine guy and he has some very helpful recommendations for you.  You'll learn the origins and differences between all those sparkling wines. Here are Howard's suggestions: High End Champagnes ($150-300)

• Dom Perignon
• Louis Roederer Cristal
• Perrier-Jouet Belle Epoque
• Krug Vintage Brut

Mid-Level Champagnes ($40-60)

• Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut
• G.H. Mumm Cordon Rouge Brut
• Moet & Chandon Imperial Brut

California Sparkling Wines ($15-25)

• Roederer Estate Brut
• Mumm Napa Brut
• Domaine Chandon Brut

Spanish Cava Jaume Serra Cristalino You'll also hear about the latest of my baking and cooking adventures in the wake of my cold. You'll remember from previous episodes that I wanted to make a molasses cookies for my wife.  Not having a recipe, I searched the online tool that I use to organize my growing cookbook library called Eat Your Books. You'll hear an interesting story on why I ultimately chose this molasses cookie recipe from the All-American Cookie Book by Nancy Baggett. I also mention my recipe for old school tomato sauce that was recently published in a magazine.  I will be using this for my traditional Christmas Lasagna. Note: None of these links included above are affiliate links