Changyu: Light on Both Palate and Wallet

I held a wine tasting at home during Spring Festival and the surprise star, in terms of value, was a magnum of Changyu sparkling cider. At 5 percent alcohol and less than 30 kuai, it packed 1.5 liters of bubbly fun (thanks to Fongyee and Edward for bringing it).

I had not since spotted it in local supermarkets or corner stores, until last night, that is, when I found a bottle at 7-ELEVEN, just east of the Gongti West club street. This cider won’t win any awards, but at 28 kuai, it may be the best value out there for those who like to sip some bubbles without draining their wallets.

Also spotted at that 7-ELEVEN: Frontera (Chile) Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot 2006, both at 68 kuai; Hardy’s (Australia) Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz 2004, both at 98 kuai; and Jacob’s Creek (Australia) Shiraz Cabernet and Merlot 2004, both at 108 kuai. A 750 ML bottle of Johnnie Walker Black goes for 230 kuai.

The Changyu (apologies for the poor picture quality).

(Originally published on March 27, 2007, on www.beijingboyce.com)

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