I can certainly understand people in the US opting for Dom or Belle Epoque for celebratory purposes, but not run-of-the-mill juice from Moet or Piper. Much better sparklers for the money are available from Sonoma or Napa Valley and, especially, New Mexico. Gruet for me, unless I'm springing for something special.

Now, if I lived in Champagne itself, I'd be selecting from among a range of small producers. And I'd be an alcoholic.